New Hampshire is known for its famed 4,000-footers, but there are also plenty of small mountains to hike where you can be rewarded with a great view for minimal effort. One of my personal favorites in this category is Pine Mountain in Alton, one of only two hills with this name in the entire state. This hike is easy, short, and provides a big payoff in the views department. As such, it’s probably the best hike near Alton, New Hampshire that anyone can do.

The 0.7-mile (one-way) hike to the outlook on Pine Mountain begins at the entrance to the Evelyn H. & Albert D. Morse, Sr. Preserve in Alton.
Tonya Muchemore/All Trails
You don't have to wait for the view at the top. The route up provides bucolic pasture scenes along the way.
Ideal L/All Trails
The hiking route makes a fairly gentle climb to an open shoulder of the mountain, where there are expansive views over Lake Winnipesaukee.
Kate L/All Trails
Pine Mountain is sometimes associated with the nearby Belknap Range, seen here, but is detached from the main mountain range.
Brittany Cole/All Trails

Related Stories

This Little-Known Trail Is Quite Possibly The Best Short Hiking Path In New Hampshire

This Little-Known Trail Is Quite Possibly The Best Short Hiking Path In New Hampshire

 This Little-Known Pond Is Perfect For Easy Nature Walking In New Hampshire

This Little-Known Pond Is Perfect For Easy Nature Walking In New Hampshire

 Enjoy A Tranquil Walk At This Underrated State Park In New Hampshire

Enjoy A Tranquil Walk At This Underrated State Park In New Hampshire
In recent years, a map has been installed at the outlook that identifies the summits and other natural features that are visible from the vista.
Eric Pinsker-Smith/All Trails
In season, Pine Mountain is a prime spot to pick your own blueberries. Bring your favorite container and be sure to save some for others.
Ken MacGray/Flickr
The outlook on Pine Mountain is an excellent spot for viewing sunsets, as views to the west are mostly open.
Lynn Berman/All Trails
Due to its popularity and short distance, the hike to Pine Mountain is also a good trek in winter. The outlook, however, is exposed to the wind, so make sure you are protected with the right gear.
René Rossen/All Trails

To learn more about Pine Mountain and the Evelyn H. & Albert D. Morse, Sr. Preserve and to download a trail map, visit the Society for the Protection of New Hampshire Forests.

For other family-friendly hike ideas, in addition to this best hike near Alton, New Hampshire, check out this list of easy fire tower treks, take eight kid-friendly hikes around the state, or visit one of New Hampshire’s most beautiful natural features.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Related Articles

Explore New Hampshire

Featured Addresses
Evelyn H. & Albert D. Morse, Sr. Preserve, Alton, NH 03810, USA