The Waterville Valley Region is famous for its abundance of hiking trails - everything from short level walks to challenging mountain ascents. See below for a short list of some of the best hikes the area has to offer. Ask at the Exit 28 Information Center for maps and guides. Remember to always be prepared before beginning your hike regardless of how short it might be. Wear rubber soled shoes, and bring a sweater. It's also a good idea to bring along some food and a beverage. Please don't litter! Carry out what you carry in. Caution is advised during bad weather. Parking passes are required on the White Mountain National Forest hiking trails.

Mount Osceola Trail, Waterville Valley - A challenging trail with views of Waterville Valley and the surrounding mountains from the 4,326' summit. The trail begins at Thornton Gap on Tripoli Road, 4 miles west of Waterville Valley. Tripoli Road to summit: 3.5 miles

Sandwich Mountain Trail, Thornton/Waterville Valley - The 3.5 mile trail leaves from a parking area on Route 49 East, and ascends steeply to reach the summit of Noon Peak. It follows the ridgeway, passes Jenning peak, and terminates at the summit of Sandwich Mountain: 3.5 hours

Smart's Brook Trail, Thornton/Waterville Valley - The 5.75 mile trail leaves a parking area on Route 49 East. It parallels Smarts Brook to the headwall of Sandwich Mountain, where it climbs to join Sandwich Mountain trail. Smarts brook is beautiful in high water, but crossing may be difficult: 4 hours Greeley Ponds Trail, Waterville Valley - The trail starts from Livermore Road. It follows the Mad River to the Greeley Ponds between Mounts Osceola and Kancamagus, gradual all the way.

Welch/Dickey Mountain Trail, Waterville Valley - Begins at the Orris Road parking area off Route 48 East on Mad River Road. The trail makes a loop which provides a scenic hike to the summits of Welch and Dickey Mountains. Outstanding views from open ledges and outcroppings. Exercise caution near the dropoffs. In wet weather, the bare rock may be very slippery: 4.5 miles, 3.5 hours

NH Heritage Trail, Plymouth - This 5.6 mile loop begins at the Railroad Depot (Senior Center) on Green Street. There are 14 points of interest along the trail. A brochure is available at the beginning of the trail.

Mount Fayal, Holderness - The trail begins at the Science Center of New Hampshire on Route 113. There are several trails and levels of difficulty. Panoramic views of Big and Little Squam Lakes can be had from the summit.

Plymouth Mountain, Plymouth - This 2 hour hike leaves from a trailhead off of Texas Hill Road. Enjoy spectacular 180 degree views from Pike's Peek. The trail is clearly blazed with white markers.

Stinson Mountain Trail, Rumney - This 1.8 mile beginners trail leaves from access near Stinson Lake. there is some steepness at the summit. Spectacular views of the Plymouth area.

Three Ponds Trail, Rumney - An easy hike for families, this trail is accessed from the Stinson Lake Road. It is 2.3 miles to a shelter, 5.1 miles to the height of the land, and 7 miles to Hubbard Brook.