Hiking the Mount Webster and Mount Jackson Loop from Crawford Notch
Mount Jackson & Mount Webster Loop: One of the Best White Mountains Hikes from Crawford Notch
Tackle one of the most rewarding White Mountains hikes with this loop over Mount Jackson and Mount Webster. Big views, alpine summits, and classic New Hampshire trail vibes make this a must-hike in the White Mountains.
Mount Jackson and Mount Webster are prominent peaks located in the White Mountains of New Hampshire, forming the eastern end of the Presidential Range. Mount Webster, at 3,910 feet, has a steep ascent, topping out with stunning overlooks of Crawford Notch. Mount Jackson, standing at 4,052 feet, and one of NH's 4000 footers, offers a 360-degree views from its rocky summit, including vistas of Mount Washington. The rugged terrain makes for the the scenic and challenging Webster-Jackson loop.
Mount Jackson and Mount Webster Loop Trail Description
Starting from the Crawford Notch State Park on Route 302, we hiked up the steep Webster-Jackson Trail. The climb is strenuous, but offers periodic views, especially at Bugle Cliff. The Webster-Jackson Trail splits at 1.3 miles and we headed right towards the summit of Mount Webster. As we approached the summit of Mount Webster, the panoramic views opened up, especially the incredible sight of Crawford Notch below.
From Mount Webster, we followed the Webster Cliff Trail (also the Appalachian Trail) to Mount Jackson. This section is less steep but culminates in a rocky climb to the summit of Mount Jackson, whose summit is a broad, open area with 360-degree views. On a clear day like we had, you can see Mount Washington to the northeast and the various peaks of the Presidential Range stretching out in front of you.
From the summit, we descended on the other branch of the Webster Jackson Trail. The descent, especially just after the summit is steep and rocky. After descending 1.2 miles, we reached the split in the Webster-Jackson Trail where we had headed up to Mount Webster and then went back down the 1.3 miles we had climbed earlier to reach the trailhead on Route 302.
The total hike is just over 6 miles in length with about 2,300 feet of elevation gain along the way. The hike is difficult, with steep and rocky spots making up much of the hike.
🥾 Trail Details: Mount Jackson & Mount Webster Loop
Trailhead: Crawford Depot Trailhead, Crawford Notch, NH
Distance: ~6.5 miles (loop)
Elevation Gain: ~2,200 feet
Difficulty: Moderate to Strenuous
Best Time to Hike: summer
Dogs: Allowed on leash (some rocky scrambles)
Highlights: Sweeping views from Mount Jackson and Mount Webster, water crossings, granite ledges, and classic White Mountains rock hopping
Trailhead Facilities: Parking at Crawford Depot (can fill quickly on weekends); AMC Highland Center nearby for restrooms and info
For More Information About The Mount Jackson and Mount Webster Loop 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 the Mount Jackson and Mount Webster Loop
Gear we used on this hike:
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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 the trail can be steep and rocky, so use caution and 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.
