The White Mountains rise sharply to the east of Lincoln, New Hampshire, offering some of the most rewarding backpacking routes in the Northeast. These trails challenge and captivate equally—rivers dare you to cross their rushing currents, rugged ridges push your stamina, and dense hardwood forests invite you under their sweeping canopy. For backpackers eyeing extended trips, the wilderness here features striking alpine views, quiet campsites, and terrain that demands attention and respect.

Start with the Lincoln Woods Trail, a 9-mile stretch following the Pemigewasset River. Its steady elevation gain of 1,200 feet rolls through a forest that flickers with light and shadow, and the river’s voice accompanies you, sometimes gentle, sometimes insistent. This route is an accessible gateway to longer junctions that branch deeper into the wilderness, such as the Franconia Ridge Loop.

Franconia Ridge itself offers a 12-mile circular journey with approximately 3,900 feet of elevation gain. The terrain here flips between steep scrambles and open ridges where winds command the space. Expect rocky paths, some exposed, requiring solid footing and confident movement. From the ridge, glance north to Mount Lafayette’s sharp profile and south to the valley, where the forest snakes along creeks and old logging roads.

For those looking to carry their packs over multiple days, the Wonderland Trail extends roughly 21 miles into a more remote section of the Pemigewasset Wilderness. Elevation gains vary between 1,000 and 2,500 feet, passing along serene ponds and crossing ridges thick with spruce and fir—trees that seem to lean in with watchful patience. Campsites are few and require planning; water sources, mainly the streams, are plentiful but always treated.

Planning any of these excursions demands practical preparation. Footwear should be durable with solid tread—trail runners suffice for fit hikers; hikers with heavier packs benefit from sturdier boots. Hydration systems matter: river crossings test your balance, so reliable bottles and purification devices are essential. Timing your trip during late spring to early fall secures more stable weather and leaf-filled views, while avoiding the ice that quickens hazards in colder months.

The White Mountains don’t unfold their stories at a casual pace; they are fiercely themselves. You advance with care, feeling the pulse of earth and rock beneath your steps, aware the landscape shifts with wind, wildlife, and weather. Respect for this natural force ensures you leave only footprints and take home the vivid marks of a genuine wilderness experience.

Whether it’s the steady river trail, the airy heights of Franconia Ridge, or the secluded stretches of Wonderland, each route near Lincoln offers a balance of challenge and beauty. Equipped with this knowledge, you’re ready to strap on your pack, lace up your boots, and answer the call of the White Mountains’ vast, vibrant wild.