Hiking Bald Mountain: Big Views in New Hampshire’s North Country
Hike Bald Mountain: A Steep Climb to Big Views in NH’s North Country
Climb Bald Mountain in Stark, NH for a 6.3-mile hike with big payoffs—quiet trails, steep climbs, and panoramic views of the Percy Peaks and beyond.
Looking to get off the beaten path in the North Country? This out-and-back to Bald Mountain delivers solitude, sweeping views, and just enough steep climbing to make it feel like a proper adventure.
Bald Mountain via Bald Mountain Notch and Cohos Trails Description
The hike kicks off from a small trailhead on Percy Road in Stark, where the Cohos Trail and Bald Mountain Notch Trail meander through peaceful woods on old logging roads and snowmobile tracks, some classic North Country terrain that’s quiet, rugged, and full of charm (we even thought we might see a moose in the wetter areas, but alas they remained elusive).
Since you are following a mix of snowmobile and hiking trails, be sure to keep your eyes open for the rectangular, yellow Cohos Trail blazes, along with the small “CT” signs that are with some blazes.
About a mile and a half in, you’ll hang a hard right to stay on the yellow-blazed Bald Mountain Notch Trail - don’t miss it, or you’ll wander right past Bald Mountain. From there, the trail climbs steadily to the height of land at the notch. Just past the top of the notch, a herd path breaks off to the left and charges uphill like it means it. It’s only about half a mile, but it’s steep enough to make your calves hurt.
Push through, and you’ll end up on Bald Mountain’s summit ledges—broad, breezy, and absolutely worth it. The Percy Peaks steal the show, but the rest of the North Country rolls out around you in all directions.
When you’ve had your fill the summit, follow the herd path completely around then summit and then head back the way you came.
This quiet little corner of northern New Hampshire lingers in the best way. A perfect half-day hike when you’re craving solitude, scrappy trails, and mountain views for miles.
Bald Mountain via Bald Mountain Notch and Cohos Trails Details
🧭 Trailhead: Percy Road, Stark, NH (Google Maps)
🥾 Distance: ~6.3 miles round trip
📈 Elevation Gain: ~1500 feet
⚠️ Difficulty: Moderate to Slightly Strenuous
🌲 Best For: Moderate hikers, peakbaggers, Cohos Trail fans
💦 Highlights: North country forests, open rock ledges, lesser visited mountain peak
🗺️ GPS Information: Trail Route in GPX Format
For More Information About The Bald Mountain Hike
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Hike On Guides: Need help on a hike like this? Moe is a NYS licensed hiking and backpacking guide. You can hire him for Hiking, Backpacking and Camping Guide Services at Hike On Guides for hikes in New York, New Hampshire, Vermont, and Massachusetts.
More Hikes near Bald Mountain
Gear we used on the hike to North Point:
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Important Hiking Considerations:
Weather: Check the weather forecast before your hike and be prepared for changes in conditions.
Safety: Some sections of trail can be steep and rocky, others can be muddy, so use caution and always watch your footing.
Leave No Trace: As with any outdoor activity, remember to follow the principles of Leave No Trace. Pack out any trash, stay on the trail, and be respectful of the natural environment.
The White Mountains offers hundreds of miles of hiking trail, almost endless mountain summits, and so much adventure! Keep exploring with our Hike the White Mountains playlist on. YouTube!
