Plan to spend half a day on this hike as it will take you a couple of hours to get up the rather steep trail, spend some time on top admiring the beauty of it all (and having a picnic meal!) and another couple hours going down. Most of the hike is covered by trees and parts of it are rather steep and over a very rocky terrain. Once you pass the tree line you will be greeted by amazing views of White Mountains.Bring water, good hiking shoes and hiking poles are a HUGE plus.
Beautiful view at the top. But this is a serious hike. It can be especially challenging going down because it is steep.
This trail was great for a half day hike, quite scenic, beautiful views at the top, option to continue from South Moat peak on to the next. Did not have any problems with washouts, wet areas, or obstructions on the trail either.
A hiking buddy of mine a I spotted a car at this trailhead and also at Dianas Bath. We did this so we could hike the Moat Mountain ridge that includes South Moat, Middle Moat and North Moat Mountain.The parking lot times have been listed incorrectly for some time and is total BS. The large lot is open 24 hours.The hike up to South Moat is easy and takes around 2 hours. A half mile later you have great views from Middle Moat and about 2.1 miles later (at 5.3 miles) you reach North Moat and the best views of all. We visited at PEAK foliage in 2018 (see photos).Note: The 4.6 mile hike down from North Moat is often overlooked by hikers. The first 2.3 miles are EXTREMELY steep and ledgey and can be very slippery - especially after rains. The final 2.5 miles is largely on logging roads and is very flat.South Moat Mountain is one of the peaks on the NH 52 With A View List.
Trail is rough dont bring a wagon if youre bringing supplies 2 mine with. Backpack your way in and out Trail is 9/10 of a mile up and down.
Great day hike.
Ascended this trail at 1 AM so I could watch the sunrise from the summit. Trail offers beautiful trees and Alpine elements. Big mountain feel for a lower elevation mountain.
Great hike!
Decent, clear and clean trailhead. A bit crowded. No bathrooms unfortunately.
Wow, I am out of shape. Nice little trail, plenty of mosquitos if thats your thing. If not, make sure your prepared. Solid walking stick is useful.
Great hike! One of my favorites. Do this walk on a clear day- the views are fantastic. Theres a bit of walking on rock slab so be careful if its wet or raining- it was slippery on a dry day. Get to the trailhead early - it gets busy fast.
Spectacular views.Extreme bug season, bring your bug guard.Extreme wind gusts at the top, very difficult to stand and walk..
Nice 2.7 mile hike (each way). Full 360 view at top.
Get there early, its a great short hike with amazing views. Lots of blueberries!!!!
2.7 challenge hike to bald top w 360 amazing views. Nice clearing about 1/2 way up. Need good shoes/boots as very rocky !!
Its a tough hike but the views are worth it!!!
If you are looking for a moderate hike this is a fun trail, its easy to find and has a beautiful view of the Conway Valley. My dog enjoyed the walk to and was easy to keep onleash.
Little bit of a strenuous hike leaving you out of breath on steep parts but well worth it when you get to the top. About 2900 elevation and the 360 views are breathtaking. Roughly two-and-a-half hours or more to hike to the top
One of my favorite local hikes of moderate duration and effort. 2 hours up and similar coming down make for a nice half day hike with good views on the way up and at the summit. The views to the west from the summit are particularly nice taking in the Kancamaugas Highway and the Pemigewasset Wilderness all the way up to the Presidentials and east to Maine. Can be icy this time of year so bring your Microspikes.
One of the best shorter White Mountain hikes.
Fun and challenging!
Great mountain to hike!!!!
Easy to mid level hike, beautiful views
Gorgeous views
Amazing Hike!