Welch-Dickey Loop
An open-ledge loop over two small peaks with views well beyond their height.
- Difficulty
- Moderate
- Length
- 4.4 mi
- Elevation Gain
- 1,800 ft
- Duration
- 3–4
- Best Season
- May–Oct
- Permit
- Not required
- Dogs
- Allowed
- Features
- Open ledges, Two summits
About the trail
The Welch-Dickey Loop is the most beloved 'small mountain' hike in the Whites. The trail climbs Welch Mountain (2,605 ft) via long stretches of open granite ledge with views up Waterville Valley to Tripyramid, then traverses to Dickey Mountain (2,734 ft) before descending. Most of the loop is on exposed rock, making it the rare White Mountain hike where you see views for nearly the entire climb.
Trailhead map & directions
Turn-by-turn route
- From I-93, take Exit 28 to NH-49 east, then turn left onto Upper Mad River Road and follow signs.
- Park at the trailhead lot ($5 day-use fee).
- Start the loop clockwise — Welch first — for the best view progression.
- Climb open ledges to Welch's summit (1.9 miles).
- Continue across the saddle to Dickey.
- Descend Dickey's western ledges back to the parking lot.
Parking
WMNF trailhead lot, $5 day-use fee (America the Beautiful pass valid). Fills by 9 AM on weekends.
Tips from the trail
- Ledges are slick when wet — save this one for dry days.
- Walk only on bare rock above treeline to protect rare alpine vegetation.
- Excellent first 'real' White Mountain hike for kids 8+.
More in New Hampshire
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Mount Chocorua via Piper Trail
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