DATE: Jun 15, 2024 to Jun 15, 2024
Half Day Hike Pride Hike on the Welch-Dickey Loop!

Meeting Time: 8:30 AM

Event Coordinator: Carl
Thornton, NH

Max # People: 15

Trip Guiding / Event Fee: No, I will not be asking participants for money

Difficulty Level: Moderate

SUMMARY:

Celebrate Pride on the beautiful Welch-Dickey Loop!  This loop is one of the most popular hiking trails in New Hampshire, and it's easy to see why. Over two miles of hiking over open ledges with spectacular views make it one of the most enjoyable hikes in the White Mountains. 

Welch Mountain is 2,605 feet high, with Dickey at 2,734 feet. The hike is about 4.4 miles round trip, with a 1,800-foot elevation gain. This is considered a moderate hike, and the push to Welch Mt can be difficult for some. It takes about 3 hours to complete. Don't forget to bring a wind/rain shell, water, snacks, bug repellent, sunscreen, etc., along with whatever you typically have for a hiking excursion.  DON’T FORGET YOUR PRIDE FLAG!

The parking lot fills up quickly, so we will meet at 8:30am in hopes of grabbing spots before they are gone.  If you can carpool with others in your area, it is recommended. The Forest Service encourages a $5 day pass for this trail, which is collected via cash in an envelope.  You can read more about Forest Service Recreation Passes here: https://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/whitemountain/passes-permits/recreation/?cid=stelprdb5297292

After, if people are interested, we can find a place to grab lunch.  The Common Man has a Roadside Market & Deli at 484 Tenney Mountain Hwy, Plymouth, NH 03264.  There is a diverse menu and indoor and outdoor seating available.

I would encourage everyone to download the map prior to the trip.  You can find it here: AllTrails Map: https://www.alltrails.com/explore/trail/us/new-hampshire/welch-and-dickey-loop-trail--4

Driving directions to the location and spot to meet at:

The trailhead and parking area are on Orris Road in Thornton, NH. Take Exit 28 off of Rt. 93, drive 5.5 miles down Rt. 49 towards Waterville Valley and take a left on Upper Mad River Road [it’s after Smarts Brook trailhead]. After 0.7 miles, turn right onto Orris Road. The parking area is 0.6 miles down, on the right.