Lincoln, New Hampshire

Zeacliff, situated in Lincoln, New Hampshire, within the Pemigewasset Wilderness of the White Mountain National Forest, is a gem offering breathtaking views.

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@b_in_the_woods (Instagram)

About This Location

Zeacliff, situated in Lincoln, New Hampshire, within the Pemigewasset Wilderness of the White Mountain National Forest, is a gem offering some of the most breathtaking views in the White Mountains. This hike presents an opportunity to immerse yourself in a diverse landscape featuring brooks, marshes, ponds, waterfalls, and spectacular wilderness views.

One of the remarkable aspects of the Zeacliff region is its intriguing history. It was once ravaged by fire during the logging operations of the early 1900s, but today, there's no evidence of that devastation. Instead, visitors are treated to one of the most scenic valleys in the White Mountains, where the beauty of nature has reclaimed the land.

The hike to Zeacliff is a memorable experience, and there are different routes to reach this picturesque destination. The most popular and accessible option is the Zealand Hut Trail, which is an out-and-back trail spanning 5.4 miles and featuring a manageable elevation gain of 603 feet. The trail is rated as moderate, making it suitable for a wide range of hikers.

Visitors are welcome to bring their dogs along for the hike, but it's essential to keep them on a leash. This trail is a well-trodden path, as it leads to the Zealand Falls Hut, managed by the Appalachian Mountain Club (AMC). The hut serves as a convenient waypoint for hikers, offering restrooms, information, and a place to seek shelter if needed.

The hike along the Zealand Hut Trail typically takes around 2.5 hours to complete as an out-and-back journey. As you venture deeper into the Zealand region, you'll encounter an array of natural wonders, from small brooks and picturesque marshes to tranquil ponds and enchanting waterfalls. The trail provides a sensory experience, with the soothing sounds of flowing water and the scent of the forest permeating the air.

Once you reach Zeacliff, the reward is nothing short of spectacular. From the sunny ledges, you'll be greeted by a sweeping vista that showcases the eastern Pemigewasset Wilderness. Directly below you lies Zealand Notch and the rocky terrain of Whitewall Mountain. Above, you'll see the imposing Willey Range, with the Presidential Range standing proudly behind it. To the right of the Willey Range, the southern Montalbano Ridge graces the landscape. Across the valley, the Nancy Range unfolds, and in the distance looms the massive Mount Carrigain, separated from the valley by the deep Carrigain Notch. To the far right, you'll catch a glimpse of the majestic Mount Hancock. For an even more captivating perspective, you can descend to a lower ledge to glimpse Mount Bond.

While the Zealand Hut Trail is the most popular route to Zeacliff, there are other hiking options available in the area for those seeking different experiences and challenges. The drive to the trailhead parking area along Zealand Road in Bethlehem, New Hampshire, does require navigating a dirt road, making a 4x4 vehicle advisable for visitors. Nevertheless, Zeacliff stands as a testament to the enduring beauty of the White Mountains and is an ideal destination for hikers and nature enthusiasts looking to immerse themselves in the splendor of this scenic region.

Location Features

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Locations

Address:
Zealand Road, Lincoln, New Hampshire

GPS Coordinates:
44.183450, -71.495418
Directions to location:
Click here for location directions
Directions to parking area:
Click here for parking directions
Parking Notes:
Zeacliff is located in Lincoln, New Hampshire, but the parking area for the trailhead can be found at the end of Zealand Road in Bethlehem, New Hampshire.

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