Hike To Black Cap In New Hampshire, Then Reward Yourself With A Treat From Trail's End Ice Cream

New Hampshire is famous for its mountain vistas, whether they are from one of the higher 4,000-footers or the more local smaller hills. There’s nothing quite like climbing up a trail to the summit to be rewarded with breathtaking views. Another reward may be a bit more self-indulgent, however. The surest way to cool down and refresh after a hike is to enjoy a sweet, tasty treat. Fortunately, the Town of Conway, New Hampshire offers two locations near each other that match up perfectly.

Ken MacGray

From the top of Hurricane Mountain Rd., the hike up to Black Cap is easy and just over a mile with about 650 ft. of climbing. Black Cap is the highest summit (2,370 ft.) in The Nature Conservancy's 5,500-acre Green Hills Preserve, a chain of low mountains to the east of Conway.

Ken MacGray

The ledgy summit of Black Cap offers excellent views over the Mt. Washington Valley, toward Maine, and out to the White Mountains. It's higher neighbor, Kearsarge North, seen here, can also climbed but is a more strenuous hike.

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Ken MacGray

Originally conceived of in 1966, the conservation efforts of the Green Hills Preserve were begun to protect the area from development. A boulder at the summit honors Katherine Billings and Anna B. Stearns, who spearheaded the vision.

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Trails End Ice Cream/Facebook

The main location of Trails End is on the way to or from the hike, so there's no reason not to stop! Step up to the counter, order your treat, and enjoy views of the White Mountains right from the shop.

Trails End Ice Cream/Facebook

In addition to visiting one of their locations in person, Trails End can also come to your post-hike party! They will bring their colorful trailer and trail crew right to wherever you are.

Trails End Ice Cream/Facebook

Of course you can satisfy your sweet tooth with classic standbys such as soft serve and hard ice cream. But Trails End also offers smoothies and decadent treats like the warm brownie sundae.

To learn more about Black Cap and to view a trail map, visit The Nature Conservancy’s website for Green Hills Preserve.

Check out the menu for Trail End Ice Cream on their website, and be sure to follow them on Facebook for all of the up-to-date news and events.

Have you treated yourself to ice cream from Trails End or have you hiked Black Cap? Share your experiences in the comments!