Mount Cardigan rises up out of the Shem Valley as a beacon for outdoor lovers. Hikers are drawn to its bare summit not only for views but also for the quiet forests that line its approach. Look for salamanders, mushrooms, and blueberries along the way. Waterfalls, a small pond for swimming, and a nature trail await young explorers. Winter adventurers will enjoy the many possibilities for snowshoeing and backcountry skiing.

Next to Mount Cardigan State Forest, Cardigan Lodge is located on a 1,200-acre reservation owned by AMC and features a peaceful, roads-end location. Explore our 50 miles of trails, join a family guided exploration, or simply relax on our deck or by the fireplace. If that’s not enough, head to nearby Wellington State Park on Newfound Lake to paddle or enjoy a sandy beach. Cardigan offers a choice of private rooms with private bath, private bunkrooms with shared bath, and individual and group walk-in tentsites. Our High Cabin, just below the Cardigan summit, is great for groups seeking a more remote, backcountry setting.

Activities

Before You Go

Accommodations

Please see specific COVID-19 related information on policies and operating procedures.

Season dates

Full Service Dates

December 28, 2020 –March 27, 2021 Open Fridays & Saturdays

April 29–October 24, 2021 Open Daily

October 25 –December 18 Open Fridays & Saturdays

December 24 –January 2, 2022 Open Daily

Accommodations

Rooms

Cardigan Lodge hosts 14 rooms. Two rooms include a queen bed and private baths. Rooms can accommodate 2 to 6 guests and include upper and lower bunks and/or a queen or double bed. A shared men’s room and shared women’s restroom are located on the second floor and include hot showers.

Full service includes dinner, breakfast, trail lunch, linens, and bath towel.

View site map.

Accessibility

Dining and living room areas are accessible. Sleeping rooms and restrooms are not accessible.

Check In/Out

Check In: 3:00 p.m.

Check Out: 11:00 a.m.

Meal Service

Breakfast: Served Family-style at 8:00 a.m. sharp. Hot beverages are available at 6:30 a.m.

Lunch: Trail lunches are made to order and available for pick up at breakfast.

Dinner: Served family-style at 6:00 p.m. sharp.

Meal reservations are available to campsite guests.

Please notify AMC Contact Service Center if you have food allergies or any other dietary restrictions.

Other Features

Put your feet up and enjoy Cardigan Lodge’s comfortable living room with cozy fireplace or enjoy a quiet read in the Library. Relax on our deck and take in the view of Mt. Cardigan’s summit and the nearby swimming pond.

Guests can access over 50 miles of hiking and historic ski trails directly from the lodge and choose from numerous routes up to Cardigan Mountain’s 3,121 foot treeless granite summit. The 360 degree panorama includes views of Mt Monadnock, White Mountains, Camel’s Hump in Vermont and Pleasant Mountain in Maine. Group and individual walk-in campsites are easily accessible for those wishing to camp. A small retail store offers books, maps, logo gear, and last-minute items. Our Demo Center offers guests the opportunity to try out Deuter backpacks and LEKI poles for free.

Our friendly staff is always available to assist with trip planning, weather, and trails information.

Pets

We are not able to accommodate pets at Cardigan Lodge, the campsites, or High Cabin.

Quiet Hours

Please be respectful of other guests and observe quiet hours from 10:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m.

Alcohol

Alcoholic beverages are permitted at the lodge, and should be consumed in a responsible manner.

Activities

Top Things to Do

At Cardigan Lodge, in New Hampshire’s Lakes Region, you’ll find your slice of nature, regardless of age or ability. From quiet nature walks to family fun to challenging explorations, Cardigan is the perfect the spot in every season.

Climb “Old Baldy”

Hikers of all ages enjoy a hike up Mount Cardigan. The first big mountain hike for many visitors, this 5-mile round trip rewards with inspiring 360-degree views.

Overnight in the backcountry

Located on the eastern shoulder of Mount Cardigan, AMC’s High Cabin offers backcountry solitude with the Lakes Region beauty you crave.

Perfect for a Family Getaway

Cardigan Lodge offers plenty of options and programs for families to enjoy. Hike, swim in the pond, search for local wildlife, and gather around the campfire for s’mores and stories.

Accolades

TripAdvisor

Cardigan Lodge awarded 2015 Certificate of Excellence from TripAdvisor

TripAdvisor

Cardigan Lodge rated “excellent” on TripAdvisor

New Hampshire Union Leader

Cardigan Lodge featured in New Hampshire Union Leader

Trip Advisor

Cardigan Lodge awarded 2017 Certificate of Excellence from Trip Advisor

Before You Go

What to Bring

The right clothing and gear are essential in the unpredictable weather of the Northeast’s mountains. Even if it feels like summer in the valleys, it can be cold and winter-like on the high peaks. Use our gear guides to make sure you’re packing everything you need for comfort and safety.