Mount Osceola + East Osceola

This out-and-back trail using the Mount Osceola Trail takes you over Mount Osceola and East Osceola, two 4000+ foot mountains in New Hampshire's White Mountain National Forest. The trailhead for this hike is located along Tripoli Road near Waterville Valley. This road is gravel and is closed in the winter. Mount Osceola Trail leaves the parking lot off of Tripoli Road and climbs steadily with rocky footing for the first mile of the trail across the Breadtray Ridge and then begins climbing by switchbacks toward the top of the ridge. Along this section there is occasionally rough footing that improves before reaching another series of switchbacks around the two mile mark. This series of switchbacks include crossing many angled rock slabs that can be difficult in wet or icy conditions. The trail continues to climb towards the summit of Mount Osceola (4340') and passes the site of an old fire tower that has a spur path to a northern view. Continuing just beyond the fire tower site there is a large and open east-facing ledge providing amazing views. The trail continues left and descends both moderately and with occasional steep descents. Near the col between Mount Osceola and East Osceola the trail reaches a steep chimney that can be bypassed using a detour. The chimney is much easier to climb than descend. The trail then continues moderately until reaching the wooded summit of East Osceola (4156') that is marked by a small cairn. There are a few views along the trail from Osceola to East Osceola. After summiting East Osceola, retrace your steps to return to the parking lot.