Stretching beyond the sharp peaks of Mount Washington, the White Mountain National Forest offers a collection of multi-day backpacking loops that invite hikers to step off the beaten path and into the wilderness that is fiercely itself. These routes deliver a balance of challenge and reward, threading through dense forests, alongside gurgling rivers that dare you to keep pace, and over ridges that open vast, sweeping views.

One standout is the Carter-Moriah Loop, a demanding 15-mile circuit with about 4,500 feet of elevation gain. It winds along a high ridge peppered with open ledges where the wind carries your thoughts far beyond the trail. The terrain alternates between packed dirt, rocky slabs, and muddy patches, especially after rainfall, so sturdy boots with reliable traction are critical. Hikers should anticipate changing weather—even in summer, unpredictable gusts and sudden fog can reconfigure the landscape in minutes.

For something less extreme but equally immersive, the Presidential Traverse Loop offers a 20-mile journey exploring peaks named after presidents. With elevation changes tallying nearly 8,000 feet, this is a multi-day trek that demands solid endurance and sharp navigation skills. Streams nudge the trail at points, their currents urging you forward while offering refreshing hydration stops. Prepare for rugged footing and consider timing your hike to avoid the notorious summer crowds.

If solitude is your aim, the Franconia Ridge Loop (roughly 14 miles, 3,900 feet elevation gain) delivers long stretches through spruce and fir forests that watch quietly as you move by. The ridge’s constant exposure to the elements makes windproof layers and layered clothing essentials here. This trail boasts outstanding sunrise and sunset vantage points, where clouds drift beneath, revealing the mountains’ fierce independence.

Practical Tips: Aim to start early to maximize daylight and cooler temperatures on summits. Hydrate consistently; clear streams can tempt but always treat water before drinking. Take time to absorb moments where the forest breathes alongside you—the crunch of leaves, the call of a distant raven—nature’s way of marking your progress.

These loops won’t simply test your physical endurance but also your respect for a landscape that demands recognition rather than conquest. With thorough preparation, the White Mountains reveal a hiking experience rich in both challenge and quiet beauty, broadening your adventure well beyond the shadow of Mount Washington.