Hiking in Cohos Trail Association: trails, map and practical info

Description

The Cohos Trail is one of New Hampshire's most ambitious long-distance hiking projects, stretching over 170 miles through the remote forests and mountains of the state's northern wilderness. This challenging route winds through the Great North Woods, connecting a network of existing paths, logging roads, and newly constructed trail segments into a continuous backcountry experience through some of New England's most pristine and least-traveled terrain.

What sets the Cohos Trail apart from other long-distance routes in the region is its deep immersion in the Great North Woods — a vast expanse of working forest that remains largely undeveloped. The trail passes by scenic lakes nestled among dense stands of spruce, fir, and northern hardwoods, and moves through rolling forested hills toward distant mountain peaks that define New Hampshire's northern border. This is genuine backcountry, not a manicured path, and that's exactly the point.

Terrain and Trail Character

The Cohos Trail demands serious preparation and solid backcountry experience from anyone attempting its full length. The terrain shifts constantly as the route moves through different elevation zones and forest types. You'll push through dense woodland sections where the canopy closes overhead, cross rushing streams and beaver ponds, and climb to exposed ridgelines with panoramic views of the northern wilderness stretching in every direction.

A significant portion of the trail passes through working forest lands where active logging operations may be underway. Far from detracting from the experience, this adds a layer of authenticity — you're moving through a landscape that has an economic life of its own, not just a preserved showcase. The route also incorporates sections of established trails within state parks and forests, which creates welcome variety in both scenery and underfoot conditions.

Weather in this part of New Hampshire can shift fast. Summer thunderstorms are common, and snow is possible well into late spring and again in early fall. The dense forest cover offers some shelter from wind and sun, but it also means wet conditions linger longer after rain. Pack accordingly and build flexibility into your schedule.

Planning a Thru-Hike

Most hikers who take on the full Cohos Trail plan for 15 to 20 days to cover the entire 265 kilometers, though that window can shift depending on pace, weather, and how much time you spend exploring side trails or lingering at scenic spots. The trail's length and remote character make it unsuitable for casual day hiking, though individual sections are accessible for shorter outings if you're not ready for the full commitment.

Resupply is one of the biggest logistical challenges. Opportunities are limited along the route, so careful planning around towns and road crossings is essential — whether you're picking up supplies in person or caching them in advance. Water sources are generally abundant given the region's many streams and lakes, but treat everything before drinking.

The scenic lakes scattered along the route serve as natural waypoints and make excellent overnight camping spots. They're also reliable places to spot wildlife: loons, moose, and various waterfowl are regular residents of the northern forest, and patient hikers are often rewarded with close encounters.

The Cohos Trail Association

The Cohos Trail Association (CTA) is the organization behind this trail. Founded in 2006 as a non-profit, the CTA runs entirely on volunteer effort and community support. Their work goes well beyond swinging a Pulaski — it includes route planning, managing relationships with private landowners, and advocating for hiking access across a complex patchwork of public and private lands that the trail crosses.

Because the organization is volunteer-driven, trail conditions and maintenance levels can vary from section to section. Hikers should go in with realistic expectations and be prepared for stretches that are rougher or less clearly marked than a fully staffed trail system would be. That said, the grassroots nature of the CTA creates a genuine community around the trail — people who use it tend to care about it, and that shows.

Trail maintenance work covers everything from clearing blowdowns and brushing overgrown sections to building new trail segments and installing signage. The association also runs fundraising efforts and outreach to grow awareness of the trail within the broader hiking community.

Getting Involved

If you want to support the Cohos Trail beyond hiking it, the CTA offers several ways to contribute. Membership provides ongoing funding for maintenance and development. Financial donations go toward trail improvements, signage, and tools for volunteer work crews. Equipment donations — particularly trail maintenance tools and supplies — are also put to direct use.

Volunteer opportunities aren't limited to physical trail work. The association also needs help with fundraising events, outreach to potential new members, and administrative support. Whether you have a full weekend to spend on a work crew or just a few hours to help with logistics, there's a role for you.

The CTA can be reached at (603) 536-2031 for current trail conditions, volunteer opportunities, or help planning your hike through the Great North Woods.