Mount Cube via Cross Rivendell Trail: A Lovely Peak Along the AT
- Stephen Warner
- May 19, 2024
- 3 min read
Updated: Apr 3
Tucked along the Appalachian Trail, Mount Cube is a rewarding summit for both thru-hikers and day hikers alike. Follow the shady, rocky climb via the Cross Rivendell Trail and you’ll be treated to sweeping views from both the south and north peaks. While most hikers stop at the southern summit, don’t skip the short detour to the north side—it’s quieter, and the views are just as spectacular (maybe even better).
Trail Info
Trailhead Name | Cross Rivendell Trail |
Distance | 5 mi / 8 km out and back (includes North Peak) |
Estimated time | 2-3 hours |
Elevation gain | 1,600 ft / 490 m |
Highest point | 2,915 ft / 889 m (Mount Cube) |
Permits / fees | No |
Parking | Dirt lot |
Toilets? | No |
Dog friendly? | Yes |
Know before you go
There are multiple routes to this peak. This post covers the shortest, most popular route via Cross Rivendell Trail. You can also summit via the Kodak Trail or approach from the east on the Appalachian Trail.
North Peak detour is worth it. The extra ~0.8 miles (1.3 km round trip) to the quieter north summit adds just a bit of effort—and a big view payoff. It’s easy to skip, but I highly recommend it.
Trail conditions vary. The route is mostly shaded, which is great in summer but means you might encounter mud, ice, or snow depending on the season. Just classic New Hampshire trail conditions.
You're hiking a section of the Appalachian Trail. You’ll spot both white and blue blazes along the trail, white marks the AT. (Georgia to Maine, baby!)
Alternate routes
Distance: 7.5 miles (12 km)
Elevation gain: 2,200 ft (670 m)
Distance: 7 miles (11 km)
Elevation gain: 2,100 ft (640 m)
The Trail
There are two informal parking areas which are essentially dirt pull-offs along Baker Road. After parking, look for the trailhead. (And don't worry there is a dot next to that 2, it's not 20 miles to the summit.)
Much of the hike is shaded, which helps in summer heat. But that also means muddy or icy sections depending on the season. Just part of the NH hiking experience.
The trail is very well-marked and easy to follow. You’ll see both white and blue blazes. Just stay on the path and keep heading up.
It’s a steady uphill grind with rocky terrain. Some sections require clambering over boulders. There are a few switchbacks, but expect to get your heart rate up.
One memorable section follows a smooth slab of rock. It’s not a scramble, but I could see it getting tricky in shoulder season with ice or frost.
About 1.5 miles in, there's a short flat section with your first open view. A great teaser for what’s to come.
Soon enough, you'll reach the southern summit! It’s the taller of the two peaks, and likely where most people, including AT thru-hikers, will be taking a break. (You’ll probably be able to smell the thru-hikers before you see them. Kidding… kinda.)
This sign marks the summit. To continue to the North Peak, hike about 0.1 miles farther and go straight at the three-way junction (it’s marked).
The trail to the North Peak is mostly (but not completely) flat. But it’s a peaceful stretch with far fewer people.
The reward? A quiet summit with sweeping views looking northeast, including glimpses of White Mountain peaks like Mount Moosilauke. I had it completely to myself. Hard to beat that.
A fantastic local hike that became a go-to during my two years in New Hampshire. And unlike those Appalachian Trail hikers, I got to cap it all off with a hot shower and home-cooked meal!
SS Reflections
This was one of the first hikes I did after moving to New Hampshire and it made me instantly glad I had decided to live here. Knowing hikes like this were in my backyard was so exciting. And watching AT hikers push through their final miles sparked something in me, too. It’s what inspired me to take on a challenge of my own: bag all 48 of the New Hampshire 4,000 footers.
Other helpful resources
Trailfinder's description of the full Cross Rivendell Trail
Mountainwandering's post about this hike