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New Hampshire 4,000-Footer Planning Guide - Mount Hale

Hikers atop Mt. Hale. Photo: Fred ShirleyNote: For complete trail descriptions, times, elevation, trailhead directions, and major features, see the AMC White Mountain Guide.

Profile
Mount Hale (4054’), one of the “Little River Mountains” offers hikers an easy hike in the Franconia Range.

Suggested Routes
Moderate: Hale’s summit, once bare, is being overtaken by steadily-growing trees and the view is nearly obscured. The quickest approach to the summit is via the Hale Brook Trail, an easy hike with moderate grades and good footing.

Trip Planning
The AMC’s Zealand Falls Hut is located at 2630 ft. on the north end of Zealand Notch, near the Twinway, Zealand and Ethan Pond Trails. The hut is open on a full-service basis from early June to mid-October, offering meals and overnight accommodations. It is open the rest of the year on a caretaker basis.

The AMC’s Hiker Shuttle stops at the Zealand Trailhead, connecting hikers with 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.

Fun Fact
Mt. Hale is named for the Reverend Edward Everett Hale, who penned “The Man Without a Country.”

Photo: Fred Shirley