All About Mt. Major

[Grant]

Originally Posted by Jan

I'd like to take the kids for a hike up Mt. Major this year but first I'd like to get some some idea what I may be in for. I'd appreciate comments from anyone who has been there and done that.

1. Is it too hard a hike for kids from 8-10?
2. How long will it take for the whole round trip and a little time at the top?
3. Are there any restrooms at the bottom, top or along the way?
4. Are there views along the way in case we don't make it to the top?
5. What is the climb like? Rocky, sandy, steep?

Thanks, J

I've been up Mt. Major about 10-15 times over the years. As for your questions:

+ For kids 8-10 -- No problem at all. I've taken 3 year olds up Major, and bigger mountains.
+ Round trip -- Figure an hour up and an hour down (at a leisurely pace with kids).
+ Restrooms? This is a joke, right?
+ There are view along the way -- but none as good as the top. Top has great views of the Lake, and particularly of Alton Bay and the Ossipees.
+ Climb is about as mellow as they come in the region. Never too steep, generally woodland trails, well-marked, with some rocky outcroppings to scale toward the end. It's a nice, easy climb.

Have fun.