Hiking Crotched Mountain Ski and Ride - panoramic view tree outdoor landscape nature mountain sky autumn plant cloud background lake painting forest surrounded distance
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Hiking in the Crotched Mountain Ski and Ride: trails, map and practical info

Monadnock Region • New Hampshire

4.3 Appreciated by 14 hikers
François Dumaine
By François Dumaine • Contributor since 2022 • Updated 23/06/2026
Ready to go See map
Difficulty
Moderate
Distance
3 km
Elevation
305 ft
Duration
1h15
Max altitude
915 ft

Explore 3.2 km of moderate trails on Crotched Mountain in New Hampshire's Monadnock Region, where a former ski area transforms into a peaceful hiking haven. 314 m elevation gain rewards you with panoramic views across southern New Hampshire—expect 1h30 of hiking through mixed forest and open ridge corridors.

Recommended for :
Intermediate hikers

Ready to explore Crotched Mountain Ski and Ride? Here's everything you need to know before you go!

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Trail description

The Ski and Ride Operation

Crotched Mountain Ski and Ride is a functioning ski area, which means the experience here is shaped significantly by that infrastructure. There's a base lodge, lifts, and the full apparatus of a ski resort during the winter season. For visitors coming specifically for skiing or snowboarding, the mountain offers a solid vertical drop and a range of trails suited to different ability levels.

The "ski and ride" designation signals that this is a place welcoming to both skiers and snowboarders — that's been the culture here, and it's reflected in how the terrain is set up and maintained. The mountain has a reputation for being accessible and family-friendly without sacrificing genuine challenge for more experienced riders.

Recommended gear for this trail

LGPO Pick
Elixir Tour Mid WP
Salomon
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Waterproof mid-height boot ideal for rocky terrain
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Trail Ergo Cork
Black Diamond
Trail Ergo Cork
4.4 (1456 reviews)
Comfortable cork grip for long ascents
69.99 $
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Daylite Plus 20L
Osprey
Daylite Plus 20L
4.7 (3215 reviews)
Lightweight and versatile for day hikes
109.99 $
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Actik Core 625
Petzl
Actik Core 625
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USB rechargeable with 600 lumens for early starts
103.95 $
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Most Popular
Wide Mouth 1L
Nalgene
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4.8 (12540 reviews)
Unbreakable and BPA-free — a hiking essential
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Ready to go?

Everything you need to know before you go

Where?

Address
615 Francestown Road, Bennington, NH 03442, USA
GPS coordinates
43.0120141, -71.8788657
Phone
(603) 588-3668

Starting Point

To access the hiking trails, you can start at the Crotched Mountain Rehabilitation Center. The main trailhead is located at 1 Verney Drive, Greenfield, NH 03047. There are several parking areas available near the trailhead for your convenience.

When?

Opening hours
Monday: ClosedTuesday: ClosedWednesday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PMThursday: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PMFriday: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PMSaturday: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PMSunday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Varies by season
Best season
Fall
Spectacular colors
Best time
Early morning
Less crowded
Weather (next days)
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How much?

Entry fees
Adult
Not available
Child
—
What to bring?
Gear
Download the PDF checklist
Water & food
2L minimum
No water point on the trail
Bring energy snacks for a 4h+ hike
Good to know
Park rules
No dogs
Safety
Download the GPX before you go
Limited cellular coverage on the trail
Slippery after rain
Be careful on rocky sections
In an emergency
Emergency
911
Parking GPS
43.0120141, -71.8788657
Center
(603) 588-3668

Hikers' opinions

4.3
8 Reviews
J
Jennifer
Aug 22, 2025
This mountain offers a rewarding climb with excellent views across the Monadnock Region. The trail is clearly marked and reasonably challenging for intermediate hikers. I appreciated the well-maintained paths, though visitors should know that access isn't free and dogs aren't permitted. Plan for a full afternoon to complete the hike comfortably.
D
David
Jun 17, 2025
A rewarding hiking destination that combines challenging terrain with stunning regional scenery. The elevation gain provides a legitimate physical test, and the trail maintenance is impressive throughout. Starting from the Rehabilitation Center location makes access straightforward, though parking involves a fee. This is an ideal choice for a full-day outdoor adventure in New Hampshire.
S
Sarah
Mar 22, 2025
The trail presents a moderate challenge with decent elevation that keeps things interesting without being overwhelming. Trail conditions were generally good, and the surrounding landscape offers pleasant views. The access fees and parking costs add up, which some hikers might find discouraging. Still, it's a solid option for those seeking a half-day to full-day hiking experience in the region.
S
Sarah
Mar 18, 2025
Fantastic trail system that really delivers on the hiking experience! The elevation gain provides an excellent workout and the trail conditions were outstanding. Located in the scenic Monadnock Region, this spot offers beautiful vistas and well-maintained paths throughout. While there are access fees and dogs aren't allowed, the quality of the experience makes it absolutely worth the investment.
WW
Weekend Warrior
Feb 20, 2024
Solid hiking destination with good elevation gain of 314 meters that provides a proper challenge. The trailhead at Crotched Mountain Rehabilitation Center is easy to find on Verney Drive in Greenfield. Parking is available but comes with a fee. The trail takes 4-6 hours as advertised, so plan accordingly. Beautiful Monadnock Region scenery makes the climb worthwhile despite the access costs.

FAQ - Frequently asked questions

Everything you need to know
Moderate
305.00 m
915.00 m
Monday: ClosedTuesday: ClosedWednesday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PMThursday: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PMFriday: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PMSaturday: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PMSunday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
1h15
No
No
Yes, Crotched Mountain Ski and Ride is rated as moderate difficulty, making it accessible for hikers with basic experience. The 3.2 km distance and 314 m elevation gain provide a manageable workout for those starting their hiking journey.
No, Crotched Mountain Ski and Ride is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays. Plan your visit for Wednesday through Sunday when the facility is open.
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Update : June 2026