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The Mount Willard Trail leads from the AMC Crawford Notch Visitor Center (railroad depot) to scenic ledges near the summit of Mount Willard. Most of the trail is an old carriage road, so grades are moderate although erosion and encroaching vegetation would prevent present use by carriages.
Both the main ledges and Hitchcock Flume feature cliffs high enough that a fall could be fatal. Hikers should exercise caution in slippery or windy conditions, and leave poorly-controlled children and pets at home.
Distance: About 1.5 miles one-way
Elevation gain: About 1000 feet
Maps:
USGS Crawford Notch
AMC Franconia-Pemigewasset or Crawford Notch-Sandwich Range
Location: White Mountains Region
NH 2003-2004 map G/H-7
DeLorme NHA&G 44-C/D3 - Carroll/Harts Location
The trail is located SW of US Route 302 at Crawford Notch, between Twin Mountain and Conway
Trailhead: AMC Crawford Notch Visitor Center (railroad depot), elevation about 1900 feet
44.2178°N, 71.4111°W (WGS84)
From I-93 exit 35 near Franconia Notch, follow US Route 3 about 11 miles N to the junction of US Route 302 in Twin Mountain, turn R on US Route 302 and go E about 8.7 miles
Parking adjacent to the depot is signed for short term use only, check inside for parking or use the Webster-Jackson Trail parking lot .2 miles toward the notch.
Far End: Ledges on Mount Willard, elevation about 2850 feet
Owner: AMC, state, and WMNF
Maintainer: NH Division of Parks
Special regulations: No camping on private or state land
The Mount Willard Trail in conjunction with the Avalon Trail crosses the tracks behind the depot/visitor center, and immediately enters the woods. At .1 mi. the Avalon Trail goes straight ahead where the Mount Willard Trail branches L. The Mount Willard Trail runs level soon crossing a brook before beginning a moderate ascent. After about a mile, the grade lessens, and at 1.4 miles an unsigned and poorly-cleared path leads steeply downhill to the head of Hitchcock Flume. The main trail continues .1 miles to the ledges.
Herd paths lead to additional views in both directions. The true summit is perhaps .1 miles behind in the woods, with no trail.
The depot parking lot may not be plowed in winter. Use the Webster-Jackson Trail parking lot or check with AMC staff about parking at the Highland Center.
Map Notes: Connector path shown on USGS map no longer evident
Old carriage road up Mount Willard
Top of Hitchcock Flume on Mount Willard
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