The conservation of the Belknap Mountain Range has been ongoing for decades thanks to the Lakes Region Conservation Trust, Society for the Protection of NH Forests, Belknap County Conservation District, UNH Cooperative Extension, New England Forestry Foundation, Belknap Range Trail Tenders (BRATTs), Belknap County Sportsmen’s Association and the towns of Alton, Belmont, Gilford, and Gilmanton.
A portion of LRCT’s conserved land within this special area includes both the north and south peaks of the summit of Piper Mountain.
Hiking Routes to Piper Mt.
Hikers can ascend the mountain from either parking area along Carriage Road. The north peak offers beautiful views to the east and west, which can be enjoyed from multiple “rock thrones.”
From the Lower Parking Area (approx. 1.3 mi.) : The Piper Mountain trail departs approximately 0.1 mi. away from the lower Carriage Road parking area and ascends directly to the northernmost summit of Piper Mountain (2,030 ft.)
From the Upper Parking Area (approx. 0.5 mi.): To reach the summit from the upper parking area, walk down Carriage Road for approximately 0.1 mi. to reach the White Trail. Follow the White Trail southeasterly until you reach Old Piper Trail. Continue along Old Piper Trail for about 0.3 mi. to reach the northernmost summit of Piper Mountain.
The south peak (2,044 ft.) is just about 0.25 mi, southeasterly from the north peak.
Trail Map
You can purchase a waterproof trail map of the Belknap Mountain Range at our online store or our Center Harbor office. The map includes trail descriptions, levels of difficulty, trail distances, and elevations, and folds up easily to fit in your pocket.
Directions & Parking
Parking areas are located at the lower and upper ends of Carriage Road. To reach the upper parking area:
- Take Belknap Mountain Road off the southeast side of Rt. 11A, 2.2 miles east of Rt. 3.
- Travel 2.4 miles and take a left onto Carriage Road.
- Drive 1.6 miles up this winding dirt road to the large parking area on the left, just before the road ends.
Please note that the road is gated in the evenings and over the winter.
