White Mountain National Forest: South Moat Mountain

This brisk out-and-back quickly climbs nearly 2,000 feet in 2.5 miles to a long ridgeline with views of the Whites and a breezy summit.

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Trail Facts

  • Distance: 4.1

Waypoints

SMM001

Location: 43.9936103820801, -71.183219909668

Hike N into under the forested shadow of Eagle Ledge

SMM002

Location: 43.9967498779297, -71.1830062866211

Gently climb the SE flank of Haystack Mtn.

SMM003

Location: 44.0032997131348, -71.188362121582

Cross Dry Brook over sturdy bridge in wooded gully

SMM004

Location: 44.004150390625, -71.1830749511719

Turn L onto Moat Mtn. Trail, head N

SMM005

Location: 44.0064506530762, -71.1849899291992

Break @ airy vista; look S at the Swift River rushing toward Conway with green hills tapering in all directions. Grab a snack before stout climb ahead.

SMM006

Location: 44.0084190368652, -71.1888122558594

Loose rock; use caution

SMM007

Location: 44.0109596252441, -71.1885375976562

Overlook to bald summits of Haystack Mtn. and Mt. Chocorua. Scant trail furrows NNW

SMM008

Location: 44.0133514404297, -71.1905517578125

More scenery unfolds @ outcrop

SMM009

Location: 44.0173606872559, -71.1934204101562

South Moat (2,772 ft.), the southern terminus of a long ridge connecting four peaks, with magnificent views of White Mountain National Forest. Retrace steps to your car