Mount Willard: Winter Hike

An easy hike up Mount Willard offers expansive views of Crawford Notch State Park in the White Mountains. Climbing 900 feet in elevation, this hike brings you through tree covered, corridor-like trails leading to a wide open summit. This is a great hike for beginners, dogs, and anyone looking for a great hike-to-view ratio. From the summit you can look out at Mount Jackson, Mount Willey, Mount Eisenhower, Mount Webster, and on a clear day, Mount Washington can be seen in the distance. The hike starts out with a fairly flat grade and crosses two streams in the first quarter mile. The trail bends to the right and becomes gradually steeper for the next mile until leveling out near the summit. There are no open views until you pop out of the trees at the very end onto the rocky, open ledges of Willard Mountain. Willard Mountain is a very popular trail year round. In winter, micro spikes are suggested for added traction, and snowshoes are not needed unless you are hiking directly after a snowfall. If you happen to hike this trail on a quiet day, you may find yourself being followed by a grey jay. These birds are known for stealing snacks from hikers! In winter, snowshoe hare footprints can often be seen in the snow. Despite being lower in elevation in comparison to its neighboring peaks, Mount Willard is an unforgettable hike in the White Mountains.