Mount Tecumseh: A Pleasant, Beginner New Hampshire 4,000 Footer
- Stephen Warner
- Jun 19, 2024
- 3 min read
Updated: Apr 3
Don’t let the haters get you down—yes, the official height of this mountain is a bit contentious (a recent survey measured it at 3,997 feet), but according to the AMC, Mount Tecumseh still counts as a 4K. And its shorter stature and manageable mileage make it an excellent intro hike for anyone starting their 48 4Ks journey. So lace up and get after it!
Trail Info
Trailhead Name | Mount Tecumseh Trail |
Distance | 5 miles / 8 km (out and back) |
Estimated time | 2-4 hours |
Elevation gain | 2,200 ft / 670 m |
Highest point | 4,003 ft / 1,220 m (Mount Tecumseh) |
Permits / fees | No |
Parking | Paved lot |
Toilets? | No, but some nearby at Osceola trailhed |
Dog friendly? | Yes |
Know before you go
There are multiple routes to summit this 4K. This post covers the standard route from the ski area, but you can also summit this via Tripoli road.
This hike requires a few river crossings. They're not especially tricky or wide, but there’s a chance your feet could get wet. Pack extra socks just in case.
This is a great winter 4K. Its short, straightforward nature makes it ideal for a winter hike. Just be sure to bring microspikes or snowshoes depending on conditions.
Other trails nearby
Distance: 7.6 miles (12.2 km)
Elevation gain: 2,900 ft (880 m)
Details: Popular and scenic double 4K option not far away.
Distance: 11 miles (17.7 km)
Elevation gain: 2,900 ft (880 m)
Details: Another pair of 4Ks in the area, but it is a much tougher day with steeper, more technical climbs and descents.
The Trail
Park at the Waterville Valley ski area and head toward the far side of the lot to find the trailhead.
The climb kicks off immediately. With over 2,200 feet of gain in just over 2 miles, it’ll get those legs burning.
Here's one of those river crossings. Nothing wild, but be ready just in case your footing slips.
Early in the hike, there’s a short spur to a viewpoint. Since this trail doesn’t offer a ton of views overall, definitely take the time to enjoy this one.
The viewpoint overlooks a ski run in Waterville Valley. Looks like they could use a few more inches!
Back to the grind! Most of the trail feels like this: a steady wooded ascent with natural rock steps. I actually loved doing this one with a little snow on the ground. It added to the trail's charm.
As you near the summit, you'll hit a few junctions. The first one begins the summit loop. You can go either direction here; both paths connect to the top.
The second junction is more important. After reaching the summit, make sure you follow signs for either the Tecumseh Trail to the Ski Area Parking or the Sosman Trail. Don’t head toward Tripoli Road unless you’re planning a different exit Otherwise, you'll end up descending the wrong side of the mountain.
Summit success! While not 360°, the view is still a great payoff. Six down, 42 to go!
SS Reflections
Mount Tecumseh is an interesting mountain. Technically, it’s a 4K, though just barely, and only because the AMC says so. If the latest survey data were gospel, I might never have even known this peak existed. It’s a good reminder that hiking lists are ultimately arbitrary, but the joy of getting outside, moving your body, and seeing something new is always worth it, no matter the elevation.
Other helpful resources
Restless meanderer, Stav is Lost, and Two People One Adventure's writeups of this hike