Belknap Range Traverse

Activity Type: Hiking, Local Walks, & Trail Running | Hiking
Difficulty: 6 - Strenuous
Trip Leader(s): Robert Mackin, Anthony Wilson, Julie Huber, James Robinson
Registration Type: Application
Please Click Here to RSVP: https://activities.outdoors.org/a5UVX00000199oH
Register By: 7/1/2026
Audience: Adults

Description: The Belknaps are a small mountain range overlooking Lake Winnipesaukee in the Lakes Region of New Hampshire. The Belknap Range Traverse is not a small hike. This hike will traverse all 12 summits including Mt. Rowe (1680’), Gunstock Mtn. (2245’), Belknap Mtn. (2382’), Piper Mountain (2024’), Whiteface Mountain (1565’), Mt. Klem (2001’), Mt. Mack (1945’), Mt Rand (1870), West Quarry Mountain (1894), Mt. Anna (1670’), Straightback Mtn. (1890’), and Mt. Major (1786’). The total hike is 18+ miles and 4,875 ft of elevation gain.
This hike is suitable for strong hikers who can maintain a faster than average pace for a distance like this. Our target moving pace is 1.5-2 mph, with a goal of finishing under 12 hours including stops for views and lunch. This is faster than a typical AMC hike. If this describes you, please join us for this traverse and earn your Belknap 12 patch in a single day. You also get breathtaking views of the lakes region and a diverse terrain that includes bald summits and ledges, mossy woods. All the things we love about hiking in New Hampshire.
This is a point to point hike with a short 15 minute drive between Mt Major and MT Rowe. You should be comfortable sharing a short ride with other hikers to our starting point.
Fitness level:This is posted at the highest AMC level of “strenuous”. You will traverse 18+ miles with 4,875 ft of elevation gain. Those seeking to participate in the hike will have recent and comparable hiking experience in the White Mountains or similar mountainous regions and have the high level of physical fitness required to handle the demands of the hike . Please describe in detail your fitness level in the application questions and ensure you are confident of your ability to complete the hike.
Traction: The route includes steep ascents and descents on rocky surfaces that require shoes with good traction . Gear: Before joining, look through the AMC 3 season suggested gear list for this hike. Most important is to bring food, water, sunscreen and a good layering system. Additionally, please be sure to bring:
durable hiking boots / shoes or trailrunners A Map of the area Layers of wool or synthetic clothing to adjust for the weather. 3L+ of water (there is little or no water on the ridge) layers, to keep warm, sunscreen and/or hat for sun protection, Bug spray and/or bug net Lunch and snacks Flashlight or headlamp Hand sanitizer, toilet paper/garbage bag for toilet paper, hygiene supplies A headlamp Clothing to protect you from rain and wind hiking poles (optional but recommended for descents)
**To address unforeseen challenges such as adverse weather, unacceptable trail conditions or excessive crowding, the planned trip destination, activity and/or meeting place and time may be modified. In that event, participants may elect to join in that activity or opt-out. We also reserve the right to skip summits or shorten the hike if needed to accommodate the group.

Reminder: Please click the RSVP link above to register!