Mount Kearsarge via Winslow Trail and Barlow Trail

The route starts and ends at the Winslow State Park Trailhead and reaches the summit of Mount Kearsarge for a 2.5 mile round trip. From the trailhead, follow the Winslow Trail east from the picnic area; the trail climbs steeply for 1 mile over rock staircases and open granite ledge, gaining most of its elevation in a short distance. Reach the Mount Kearsarge summit and fire tower, 1,095 vertical feet above the trailhead. Descend via the Barlow Trail, which drops more gradually over 1.5 miles, passing several outlooks with views toward Ragged Mountain and Mount Cardigan, back to the trailhead.

In the center of Winslow State Park is the foundation of the old Winslow House, named after Admiral John Winslow the former captain of the original USS Kearsarge. The original Sloop of War served in the Civil War, sinking the Alabama off the coast of France in 1864. Three other Navy ships have since received the name of Kearsarge, including a 1900's battleship, a 1950's Aircraft Carrier and currently an Amphibious assault ship.