Hiking in Col Trail: trails, map and practical info

The Col Trail is a hiking route located in the Dartmouth–Lake Sunapee region of New Hampshire. Tucked into a part of the state that tends to fly under the radar compared to the White Mountains, this trail offers a quieter, more intimate experience for hikers who want to get out on the trail without the crowds.

What to Expect on the Trail

The Col Trail follows terrain that is characteristic of central New Hampshire's forested hillsides — a mix of hardwoods and conifers, with the kind of understory that changes noticeably with the seasons. The trail name itself references a col, which is a mountain pass or saddle between two higher points. That geographic feature shapes the experience: you're working toward a defined low point between ridges, which gives the hike a clear sense of direction and purpose.

The footing is typical of New Hampshire woodland trails — expect roots, rocks, and uneven ground in sections. Trekking poles can be helpful depending on conditions, particularly if the trail is wet. The forest canopy provides good shade through most of the route, which makes it a reasonable option on warmer days.

The Dartmouth–Lake Sunapee Region

This part of New Hampshire sits between the Connecticut River valley to the west and Lake Sunapee to the east. It's a region defined by rolling hills, mixed forests, and a network of smaller trails that don't always show up on the most popular hiking lists — which is part of the appeal. The Dartmouth–Lake Sunapee area attracts hikers who are looking for something more low-key than the heavily trafficked peaks further north.

The region has strong ties to outdoor recreation year-round, with hiking in the warmer months giving way to cross-country skiing and snowshoeing in winter. The landscape here is genuinely four-season, and the Col Trail sits within that broader context of accessible, non-technical outdoor adventure.

Getting There

Access to the Col Trail is through the Dartmouth–Lake Sunapee region of New Hampshire. As with many trails in this part of the state, it's worth confirming current trailhead access and parking conditions before heading out, since rural New Hampshire roads and trailhead facilities can vary. Checking with local trail organizations or the relevant land manager ahead of your visit is always a good idea.

Who This Trail Is For

The Col Trail suits hikers who are comfortable on natural-surface woodland trails and are looking for a route with a clear geographic objective — reaching the col — rather than a summit with a wide-open view. It's the kind of trail that rewards people who enjoy the process of moving through forest as much as arriving at a destination.

If you're new to hiking in New Hampshire, this region is a solid introduction to the state's trail culture without the intensity of the White Mountains. More experienced hikers will appreciate the quieter atmosphere and the chance to explore a part of the state that doesn't always make the highlight reels.

Practical Notes

• Terrain: Natural surface with roots and rocks; standard New Hampshire woodland trail conditions.
• Region: Dartmouth–Lake Sunapee, New Hampshire.
• Crowds: Generally quieter than trails in the White Mountains region.
• Preparation: Wear sturdy footwear with ankle support, carry water, and check trail conditions locally before your visit.
• Navigation: Bring a map or download the trail to your GPS device — cell service in rural New Hampshire can be unreliable.

The Col Trail is a straightforward, honest hike in a part of New Hampshire that deserves more attention than it typically gets. It won't hand you a dramatic summit panorama, but it will give you a solid day in the woods in a region that knows how to do outdoor recreation well.