Mount Shaw, Black Snout, Big Ball, and Little Ball Loop

This rugged backcountry route begins at the Mountain Road parking area and climbs steadily on the Mount Shaw Trail through hardwood forest before breaking into higher elevation terrain. At the first major junction, stay right to follow the Black Snout Trail east toward Mount Shaw. The trail steepens before reaching Mount Shaw’s open summit, where hikers are rewarded with sweeping views of Lake Winnipesaukee and the surrounding Ossipee Range. From the summit, return along the ridgeline, descending and then climbing again to reach Black Snout. After crossing the broad summit, stay on the Black Snout Trail linking to the Big Ball Mountain Trail. This next section features rolling ridge travel with short, steep pitches. Continue over Big Ball Mountain and on to Little Ball Mountain, where open ledges offer a final set of scenic overlooks. From here, descend west back toward the Mount Shaw Trail via the Italian Trail. This is a strenuous route with sustained elevation gain, steep rocky sections, and exposed ridgelines—ideal for experienced hikers seeking a long day in the high terrain of southern New Hampshire.