Attractions – Pinkham Notch Visitor Center

AMC Pinkham Notch Visitor Center

Box 298, Mount Washington, NH • Ph: 603-466-2727

The Pinkham Notch Visitors Center is located in the White Mountain National Forest  The AMC (Appalachian Mountain Club) houses staff in the building and there is a hiking hostel here. This area is open year round for hiking, meals and day use. Pinkham Notch is where many hikers meet. This area is the starting point for many of the White Mountain Trails on Mt. Washington. Skiers leave from here to ski Tuckerman Ravine. The first camp was built on this site in the early 1920’s. The Old Jackson Road runs through this area and the old road can still be accessed today.

Category: Hikes, Visitor Centers, Trails

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AMC Pinkham Notch Visitor Center: A Gateway to the White Mountain National Forest

In the heart of New Hampshire’s White Mountains, the Appalachian Mountain Club (AMC) Pinkham Notch Visitor Center is more than just a pit stop for adventurers. It’s an iconic gateway to some of the most rugged and picturesque landscapes in New England. Surrounded by towering peaks, dense forests, and pristine rivers, this visitor center serves as a hub for hikers, skiers, and nature enthusiasts looking to explore the White Mountain National Forest.

History of the Pinkham Notch Visitor Center

The AMC Pinkham Notch Visitor Center, established in 1922, has a long history intertwined with the growth of outdoor recreation in the Northeast. Originally built as a base for hikers attempting to summit Mount Washington, the highest peak in the northeastern United States, the center has evolved over the years. Today, it serves a much broader purpose, catering to everyone from casual tourists to seasoned mountaineers.

Named after Daniel Pinkham, one of the early settlers of the area, the notch has always been a critical passage through the White Mountains. The AMC, one of the oldest outdoor organizations in the U.S., took over the land to support its mission of promoting outdoor recreation, conservation, and education. The Pinkham Notch Visitor Center remains central to that mission, providing essential services, guidance, and hospitality for visitors year-round.

Location and Getting There

Located at the base of Mount Washington, along Route 16, the Pinkham Notch Visitor Center is conveniently situated between Jackson and Gorham, New Hampshire. This central location makes it an ideal launching point for a variety of outdoor activities. Whether you’re headed to Tuckerman Ravine for a challenging hike or simply stopping by to take in the natural beauty of the region, the center is easily accessible by car.

For those visiting from further afield, the center is about a two-hour drive from Portland, Maine, and roughly three hours from Boston, Massachusetts. The scenic drive alone is worth the trip, as it winds through some of the most stunning landscapes in the Northeast, including the Presidential Range and the Androscoggin River.

Facilities and Amenities

The Pinkham Notch Visitor Center is more than just a rustic lodge in the woods. It offers a range of facilities designed to make your visit as comfortable as possible, whether you’re staying for a few hours or a few days. The center includes:

• Visitor Information Desk: Staffed by knowledgeable AMC employees and volunteers, the desk is a valuable resource for hikers and travelers alike. Whether you’re looking for trail conditions, weather updates, or recommendations for the best day hikes, the staff can provide expert advice.
• Lodging: The Joe Dodge Lodge, located adjacent to the visitor center, offers comfortable accommodations for those looking to extend their stay. Named after the legendary outdoorsman and former AMC Hutmaster, the lodge features private and shared rooms, a cozy dining area, and stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
• Retail Store: The retail store offers a wide variety of outdoor gear, maps, and guidebooks, making it easy to grab any last-minute items before hitting the trails. You’ll also find a range of souvenirs, including AMC-branded clothing and accessories.
• Dining: The cafeteria-style dining room serves up hearty meals to fuel your adventures. The breakfast buffet is especially popular with early-morning hikers heading out to tackle Mount Washington or other nearby peaks.
• Gear Rentals: Whether you need snowshoes, trekking poles, or winter boots, the center has a selection of rental equipment available for visitors.
• Educational Exhibits: The center houses several informative displays about the natural and human history of the White Mountain region, offering visitors the chance to learn more about the area’s ecology, geology, and wildlife.

Hiking and Outdoor Recreation

The Pinkham Notch Visitor Center is most famous for its proximity to some of the best hiking trails in the White Mountains. Hikers from all over the world come to Pinkham Notch to explore the region’s extensive trail network, which includes everything from beginner-friendly loops to strenuous backcountry treks.

Tuckerman Ravine Trail

One of the most iconic hikes starting from Pinkham Notch is the Tuckerman Ravine Trail, which leads to the summit of Mount Washington. Known for its steep ascent and stunning views, the trail is a favorite among experienced hikers. However, it’s also a challenging hike, with a vertical gain of over 4,000 feet in just a few miles. Hikers should be prepared for rapidly changing weather conditions, especially near the summit, where winds can reach hurricane-force speeds even in summer.

In the winter and spring, Tuckerman Ravine transforms into a playground for extreme skiers. Skiers hike up the trail with their gear and carve down the ravine’s steep slopes, often in deep powder or spring corn snow. This tradition dates back to the early 20th century, and it’s one of the few places in the East where you can find such a combination of rugged backcountry skiing and a supportive community of enthusiasts.

Lost Pond Trail

For those looking for a more leisurely hike, the Lost Pond Trail offers a scenic and relatively flat route suitable for families and beginners. The trail meanders through a forested area, eventually reaching Lost Pond, a peaceful spot for birdwatching and photography. Along the way, hikers can catch glimpses of Mount Washington and the surrounding peaks.

Huntington Ravine Trail

Another challenging hike is the Huntington Ravine Trail, considered one of the most difficult routes in the White Mountains. This trail is not for the faint of heart, as it requires scrambling over boulders and navigating steep, exposed sections. The reward, however, is a breathtaking view of the ravine and the Presidential Range.

Wildcat Mountain Trails

Directly across Route 16 from the visitor center lies Wildcat Mountain, home to both skiing and hiking trails. The Wildcat Ridge Trail is a strenuous but rewarding hike that offers panoramic views of the Presidential Range, including a stunning vista of Mount Washington.

Winter Sports

While hiking dominates the warmer months, the Pinkham Notch Visitor Center is a hub for winter sports enthusiasts during the colder seasons. From cross-country skiing to snowshoeing, the area offers a variety of activities for those looking to explore the White Mountains in winter.

Cross-Country Skiing

The AMC maintains several cross-country ski trails in the Pinkham Notch area, offering skiers the chance to glide through pristine forests and over snow-covered meadows. The nearby Great Gulf Wilderness offers particularly scenic routes for more advanced skiers.

Snowshoeing

For those looking to explore the area on foot, snowshoeing is a popular option. Snowshoes can be rented at the visitor center, and several trails, including the Lost Pond Trail, are ideal for beginners. For a more challenging adventure, the Tuckerman Ravine Trail is also accessible by snowshoes in winter, though it requires proper equipment and caution due to potential avalanche danger.

Guided Programs and Workshops

One of the standout features of the AMC Pinkham Notch Visitor Center is its wide range of guided programs and educational workshops. Throughout the year, the AMC offers guided hikes, naturalist programs, and skills workshops designed to help visitors make the most of their time in the White Mountains.

Guided Hikes

Experienced AMC guides lead hikes ranging from short nature walks to all-day excursions. These guided trips provide an opportunity to learn more about the region’s flora, fauna, and geology while enjoying the company of fellow outdoor enthusiasts. Popular guided hikes include trips to Tuckerman Ravine, Mount Washington, and Lost Pond.

Workshops and Classes

For those looking to improve their outdoor skills, the center offers a variety of workshops on topics such as backcountry navigation, winter camping, and wilderness first aid. These hands-on classes are led by experienced instructors and are open to participants of all skill levels.

Youth and Family Programs

The AMC also offers several programs designed specifically for families and young adventurers. From nature walks to storytelling around the campfire, these programs aim to introduce the next generation to the joys of outdoor exploration.

Conservation and Stewardship

The AMC has a long-standing commitment to conservation, and the Pinkham Notch Visitor Center is a model for sustainable tourism in the region. The center operates on eco-friendly principles, with efforts focused on reducing waste, conserving energy, and protecting the fragile ecosystems of the White Mountains.

Through partnerships with local and national organizations, the AMC works to ensure that the natural beauty of Pinkham Notch remains preserved for future generations. Visitors are encouraged to practice Leave No Trace principles, minimizing their impact on the environment by packing out all trash, staying on designated trails, and respecting wildlife.

How to Plan Your Visit

Whether you’re visiting for a day hike, a weekend getaway, or a winter sports adventure, planning your trip to the AMC Pinkham Notch Visitor Center is key to making the most of your experience. Here are a few tips to help you prepare:

• Check the weather: The weather in the White Mountains can be unpredictable, especially at higher elevations. Always check the forecast before heading out and be prepared for sudden changes.
• Pack appropriately: Even for short hikes, it’s essential to carry the ten essentials, including water, food, a map, and a first-aid kit. If you’re hiking in winter, make sure you have appropriate gear, including microspikes or crampons for icy trails.
• Arrive early: The Pinkham Notch Visitor Center is a popular destination, especially during peak hiking season. Arriving early ensures you’ll have a parking spot and allows you to start your hike before the crowds arrive.
• Consider staying overnight: If you’re planning to hike Mount Washington or another long trail, consider staying at the Joe Dodge Lodge to get an early start. The lodge’s comfortable accommodations and hearty meals make it a great basecamp for exploring the White Mountains.

The AMC Pinkham Notch Visitor Center is more than just a place to stop on your way through the White Mountains. It’s a vibrant hub for outdoor recreation, education, and conservation. Whether you’re hiking to the summit of Mount Washington, skiing through the forest, or simply enjoying the stunning scenery, Pinkham Notch offers something for everyone.

For more information about the Pinkham Notch Visitor Center and the White Mountains, bookmark NHLiving.com for photos, tips, and additional resources to help plan your NH visit.

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