The Easy Trail That Might As Well Be The Wetlands Capital Of New Hampshire

I've mentioned this in other articles, but I absolutely love hiking beside or to natural water features. Brooks, streams, waterfalls, ponds — I love 'em all! Ponds and wetlands are especially peaceful and allow ample opportunity to spot the local resident wildlife. Fortunately, there is no shortage of these beautiful areas here and this one particular New Hampshire wetland hike is a personal favorite.

Tunnel Brook Trail is a 6.7-mile route that traverses the notch, or "tunnel," between Mt. Moosilauke and Mt. Clough.

While the grades on this trail are generally easy, it is still a White Mountains trail and hikers should be properly equipped for a remote hike.

As Tunnel Brook Trail passes between the two mountains, it visits a chain of small beaver ponds and wetlands that are nestled in the notch.

Industrious beavers, along with natural weather events, have shaped the ponds as well as the flow of water through the notch.

Dusk and dawn will give you the best opportunity to spot wildlife here, but sightings of the local moose and beaver population are possible at any time.

Tunnel Brook Trail also provides interesting views up to the numerous landslides that streak the eastern slopes of Mt. Clough.

No matter if you only walk in a couple of miles or traverse the entire notch, you'll be met with a tranquil setting in a quiet corner of the national forest.

If you can spot a car at both ends of this hike, you can enjoy the full experience of this New Hampshire wetland hike. If not, walk as far as you can and enjoy the trip. For more information on Tunnel Brook Trail, consult the AMC White Mountain Guide and visit the White Mountain National Forest website.

New Hampshire is known for its grand mountain vistas, but there are plenty of water features to explore as well. If you love visiting waterfalls, here are ten of them to put on your to-do list. Before heading out, make you you are well-equipped with the essential gear for a safe trip.