Best trails in Bethlehem, New Hampshire

Please note: Gale River Road may close for the winter, adding an extra 1.2 miles each way from the winter parking area off of Route 3.Show more

Note: The road leading to this trailhead may close for the winter, adding an extra 3.7 miles each way. For more information, please see https://trailsnh.com/reports/Forest-Roads-Gates.php Zealand Falls and the views that come with this ascent make the wooded summit of this mountain easy to swallow for Northeast Peakbaggers. Zealand mountain is located on the edge of the Pemigewasset Wilderness. You will pass by a beautiful AMC hut and Zealand Falls on the way to the wooded summit. The falls are definitely worth a stop at on the way up. You will have some views of the Bond Range near the top through the trees.Show more

Zealand Road closes seasonally in winter, adding distance to this trail if you have to park outside of the gate (about 2.5 additional miles each way). This peak has a large pile of rocks at the top clearly marking the summit. The top of this peak has experienced some tree growth which unfortunately has blocked many of the great views. Perhaps if climbing on top of the massive pile of rocks that mark the summit, it may be possible to view more of the surrounding White Mountains. The trail up is steep but enjoyable.Show more

North Twin Trail is a 8.2 mile heavily trafficked out and back trail that features a river and is sometimes rated as difficult. North Twin Spur adds 1.1 miles to the summit of South Twin. These trails are primarily used for hiking and snowshoeing and is accessible year-round. Dogs are also able to use these trails. Begin at the North Twin parking lot at the end of Haystack Road in Bethlehem, NH. There are 3 river crossings within the first 2 miles of this hike, which could be challenging if water levels are high. If preferred to do less water crossings - there is an unmarked side trail that skips the first 2 crossings, that begins at what would be the 1st crossing. Instead of crossing you continue straight at this point, following very close to the left side of the river. It's well-worn, easy to follow, and will allow you to avoid the first two water crossings. The real trail joins it again another 0.5 miles up. At 1.9 miles you have no choice but to make the 3rd river crossing. The first 2.8 miles of North Twin Trail are easy going, and the last 1.3 are a steeper climb. Don't be fooled by the rocky area with a great view at 3.9 miles, as North Twin's actual peak is marked with a sign and a cairn within the tress further up, and there's an outlook spur offering fantastic views just past that as well. From North Twin over to South Twin is an easy trek and the 300 feet of elevation and 1.3 miles are worth it, as South Twin's peak is exposed and offers more views of the surrounding area. To continue over to South Twin Mountain, continue hiking along the same trail, that changes from North Twin Trail to North Twin Spur. You will reach the summit after 1.2 miles. To get back to the parking lot, retrace your steps for 5.5 miles.Show more

Located on the Gale River Road (FR 92) off of Rte. 3 in Twin Mountain. Gale River Road is unplowed in winter. Show more

Note: Zealand Road is open all the way now. https://trailsnh.com/reports/Forest-Roads-Gates.php?road=zealand-road This Trailhead is located at the southern terminus of Zealand Road. [Zealand Road remains unplowed in winter.] A long, but fun journey that allows you to bag two NH 4000 footers. The climb up the Hale Brook Trail is very short but steep. Descend Mount Hale via the Lend-A-Hand Trail and feel like you are in nature's isolation. The Zealand Falls Hut is located at the junction of the Twinway Trail/AT so you can refill and refuel on the way up or down from Mount Zealand. Follow the AT up to Zealand's summit, and make sure to take the Zeacliff Pond Spur Trail or one of two incredible viewing areas to make up for Zealand and Hale's wooded summits. The Zealand Trail on the way down is quite easy and flat. This trail can easily be done as a loop with one car as long as you don't mind a short extra walk along Zealand Road.Show more

Note: Zealand Road is closed 1 mile from 302 after Sugarloaf Trailhead due to storm damage. For more information, please see https://trailsnh.com/reports/Forest-Roads-Gates.php#:~:text=Zealand%20Road%20is%20closed%201,Trailhead%20due%20to%20storm%20damage.&text=NHDOT%20posted%20today%20that%20Bear%20Notch%20road%20is%20open%20for%20the%20season.&text=In%20accordance%2C%20the%20USDA%20Forest,least%20through%20June%201%2C%202020.Show more