Mount Pierce, part of the Presidential Range, features some hiking time on the Crawford Path, which is the oldest continually used hiking trail in the US. The mountain is named after the only US president born in New Hampshire, Franklin Pierce. Mount Pierce was previously named Mount Clinton in the 1800’s. It is the 27th tallest mountain in New Hampshire and is included in the AMC’s list of 48 4,000 footers. 

The previously mentioned Crawford Path is the most popular way up and down Mount Pierce. Starting from the Crawford Connector parking lot, hikers take the Crawford Connector about 0.4 miles before reaching the Crawford Path trailhead. You then take Crawford path for 1.5 miles before the Mizpah cutoff is reached.

Hikers can go right to the Mizpah Spring Hut, an AMC hut with great views at 3,800 feet and then approach the summit.

One can go left at the cutoff to continue along Crawford Path about 1.3 miles to the summit of Mount Pierce. Peakbagging Mount Eisenhower from here is popular, especially among hikers who are trying to summit all 48 of New Hampshire’s 4,000 footers. 

To reach Eisenhower, continue another 1.2 miles on Crawford Path to reach the summit. From there hikers will usually either go back the last 1.2 miles they hiked to Mount Pierce’s summit and then continue down Crawford Path to the Crawford Connector parking lot.

Another option is to take Edmands Path down Eisenhower. Edmands path is about 3.3 miles down to the Edmands parking lot which is a 2.3 mile walk on Mount Clinton Road back to the Crawford Connector parking lot. 

Mt. Pierce Trail Sign

The Mizpah Spring Hut is operated by the Appalachian Mountain Club. Reservations for overnight stays can be made through the AMC.

The Crawford Connector parking lot is located off of Mount Clinton road. 

After your hike, head towards Bretton Woods for a bite to eat and a spectacular view of the Presidential range (at least on a clear day).

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