Belknap Mountain via East Gilford Trail

This route begins and ends at the Wood Road trailhead after reaching the summit of Mount Belknap by the East Gilford Trail. From the parking area, follow the yellow-blazed East Gilford Trail, passing Gilford Fire Road on the left at 0.1 miles. The trail ascends gently through deciduous forest, and at 0.9 miles, the trail becomes steeper and rockier, requiring navigation over stone stairs and occasional ledges. At 1.5 miles, reach the intersection with the Boulder Trail on the left; keep right to turn northwest, continuing up the mountain. At 1.7 miles, the White Trail merges in from the left. Follow the white and yellow blazes for 0.2 miles to reach the 2,382-foot summit of Mount Belknap, which features an active fire tower. Retrace your steps to return to the trailhead.

If you're interested in the geology of the Belknap Range read "Stepping-Stones Across New Hampshire: A Geological Story of the Belknap Mountains" by Jay Long, a life-long summer resident of the area.