Mount Jefferson (NH) via Caps Ridge Trail

Hiking Mount Jefferson, New Hampshire, via Caps Ridge Trail

I’ve talked about New Hampshire’s Mount Adams as the underappreciated neighbor of the White Mountains’ most famous peak, Mount Washington, so where does that leave Mount Jefferson? As the cousin left behind, I suppose.

Don’t fall for the trap and cast Jefferson aside, as it’s got a lot to offer in its own right. As the third-highest peak in the Whites, Jefferson closely rivals Adams and Washington with expansive views, and, get this, the route is lesser-traveled and the trail is much shorter. Victory!

Getting to Mount Jefferson (Caps Ridge Trail)

From Route 302 turn onto Mount Clinton Road, which is less than a quarter mile from the AMC Highland Center. If you miss your turn, head back for the Center. After about 3.5 miles, continue straight through at the intersection onto Jefferson Notch Road. Another approximate 3.5 miles on Jefferson Notch Road will take you right to the Caps Ridge Trailhead.

Starting out at the Caps Ridge trailhead

The trail starts fast and steep, with a lot of big steps on rock-filled trail. But the steepness is only going to increase, as this is the relatively “easy” portion of the hike. The hike gets steeper and includes varying levels of scrambling and exposure as it winds it way up to near 6,000 feet.

The early sections of the trail are green with life in the summer months, but don’t get caught looking around too much or you’ll hit a rock or two and take a tumble.

The Caps

After about a mile on trail, you’ll notice that some of the trees take on a more alpine feel – shorter, look ready to tackle fierce winter winds. Shortly after, around 1.5 miles in, you’ll arrive at the first of a series of “Caps.” The terrain here changes and is steeper and even rockier. Take in the views of Mount Washington without losing your footing as you leave the Caps behind for the summit.

The Cornice intersection

Once past the Caps, about 2.1 miles into the hike, you’ll reach the intersection with The Cornice. Continue straight, following the Caps Ridge Trail for another 0.4 miles to the third-tallest peak in New Hampshire. Scramble and pick your way through the rocks for the final stretch and sit atop the summit of Mount Jefferson. With clear skies, take some good snapshots of the 360 views that include Mount Washington, Mount Adams, Mount Madison and more.

Route info

Time of year to climb: All year, add miles in winter due to road closures
Route: Caps Ridge Trail
Trail distance (estimate): 5.5 miles roundtrip
Elevation change (estimate): 2,750 ft

Photos from this route