New Hampshire 4,000-Footer Planning Guide – Galehead Mountain

Note: For complete trail descriptions, times, elevation, trailhead directions, and major features, see the AMC White Mountain Guide.

Profile
Galehead Mountain (4,024 feet), a part of the Twin Range, offers views of the nearby Franconia Range from its wooded summit.

Suggested Routes
Strenuous: The Gale River Trail is likely the most convenient & direct way to access this part of the Twin Range from the local roadways & AMC Hiker Shuttle. From there, Galehead’s summit is reached by way of the Frost Trail, which begins close to Galehead Hut, near the intersection of the Garfield Ridge Trail, Twinway and Twin Brook Trail.

Trip Planning
The AMC’s Galehead Hut is located at 3800 ft. on the Garfield Ridge, near the Twinway, Garfield Ridge, Frost, and Twin Brook Trails. The hut is open from mid-May to mid-October (caretaker basis in May), offering meals and overnight accommodations.

The AMC’s Garfield Ridge Campsite is located on the Garfield Ridge Trail, just northeast of Mt. Garfield’s summit.

The AMC’s Thirteen Falls Tentsite is located at the junction of the Franconia Brook & Twin Brook Trails.

The AMC’s Hiker Shuttle stops at the Gale River Trailhead, connecting hikers with Lafayette Place Campground and The Highland Center.

Safety
The AMC recommends all hikers check weather conditions in advance, carry a current map and guidebook, along with a compass and knowledge of how to use it. For recommendations on how to plan a safe hike in the White Mountains, see: The 10 essentials for a safe and pleasant hike.

Trip Planning
Offering spectactular views of the Pemigewasset Wilderness Area, the AMC’s Galehead Hut was completely rebuilt in 2000.