Hiking Mount Shaw

Mount Shaw is located in Moultonborough and Tuftonboro NH within Carroll County in the Ossipee Mountains, overlooking Lake Winnipesaukee. It can only boast an elevation of 2,989 feet and is privately owned (It sits on the Castle in the Clouds Estate). Mount Shaw makes up part of an ancient volcanic ring dike.

Despite what appear as drawbacks, this cute mountain provides for a wonderful stroll in the woods type of hike. The main summit trail ascends sharply for the first two or three hundred feet, along a typical New England rock-strewn brook and then later right through the water trickling down the mountainside. The beauty of this walk, however, lies in the ever-changing scenery. Perfect for children and those looking for a lovely, stress-free afternoon, this mountain trail meanders first through dense forest, then meadows, thin woods, and eventually beautiful displays of the rivers and Lake Winnipesaukee in the valley. One doesn’t even need to summit to admire the gorgeous landscape views; the trail gently winds around small mountainside ridges, affording the hiker plenty of views while on his or her way to the top.

Given the woods, meadows and close-up views, I recommend this hike for fall, when all of New Hampshire is dressed in bright foliage. Its perfect for a colder-than-usual, but still fall day as the summit is not above tree line. This particular hike is not well-known, excepting the Estate which is known for its function room at the Castle in the Clouds, so few tourists crowd the trail. When I hiked it, I believe I only saw two other individuals on the mountain. Certainly some avoid it because it does not hold the distinction of a 4,000 footer or prove to be unreasonably challenging, but for a family walk, a quiet morning, afternoon, or evening, or just a varied adventure, Mount Shaw is accessible, fun, and beautiful.

Mt. Shaw includes the Black Snout and the Bald Knob hikes

by Jillian Jason

Hiking with poles makes a big difference, give it a try!