Easy day hikes in the White Mountains are very common, but sometimes more experienced hikers need a bigger challenge. How about a traverse across two of the most rugged ridges in the Whites? For strong day hikers or experienced backpackers, this long-distance trek across the Carter-Moriah and Wildcat ranges should be put on the list as the best hike near Gorham, NH.

Note: Due to the distance, elevation gain, and terrain, this is a hike suitable only for experienced, fit, and well-equipped mountain hikers and backpackers with full overnight gear. It is not for beginners.

This 19-mile hike, with 7,250 feet of elevation gain, passes over or near the summits of six of the 48 official 4,000-footers (Wildcat D, Wildcat A, Carter Dome, South Carter, Middle Carter, Mt. Moriah), as well as five other lower peaks.
Dan EnBottines/All Trails
The hike begins with a very steep climb out of Pinkham Notch via Wildcat Ridge Trail. The trail rises over 2,100 ft. in 1.8 mi. from its junction with Lost Pond Trail to Wildcat's "E" peak.
James T/All Trails
Fortunately, the climb out of Pinkham Notch via Wildcat Ridge Trail provides several spots to catch your breath and take in the views.
MacKenzie Kelsey/All Trails
Wildcat Ridge Trail passes over the top of the ski area at Wildcat Mountain Resort, near the summit Wildcat's "D" Peak.
Nicole Comerford/All Trails

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At Carter Notch, the deep pass between the Wildcats and the Carter-Moriah Range, the scenic and tiny Carter Lakes make for a good break spot.
Kevin MacKinnon/All Trails
For backpackers, AMC's Carter Notch Hut is available in season for overnight stays by reservation. Further north, hikers can utilize AMC's Imp Shelter.
Jennifer Gagnon/All Trails
Carter-Moriah Trail is well known for its copious amounts of mud along the ridge. Waterproof boots are a must.
Dan EnBottines/All Trails
The final peak along this long journey, Mt. Moriah, provides spectacular views of the higher Presidential Range from its compact summit ledge.
Meg Cameron/All Trails

I can’t say that I’ve done this entire trek at once but I have hiked most of it in sections and can vouch for its rugged beauty. For more information, consult the AMC White Mountain Guide and the U.S. Forest website pages for the Glen Ellis Scenic Area trailhead (Wildcat Ridge Trail) and the Carter-Moriah trailhead (Carter-Moriah Trail).

For more hike ideas of varying difficulty, visit Only In Your State’s recommendations for some great outings all around New Hampshire.

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Featured Addresses
Glen Ellis Falls Trailhead, White Mountain National Forest, Appalachian National Scenic Trail, Jackson, NH 03846, USA
Carter-Moriah Trailhead (Bangor Street), Gorham, NH 03581, USA