Photo by Holly Mandarich on Unsplash
ExpertDirt

Great Hill Loop

Bow, New Hampshire · Merrimack County

Great Hill Loop is a expert hiking trail near Bow in Merrimack County, New Hampshire.. The surface is dirt. Trail data is sourced from OpenStreetMap.

🧭 Get Directions🗺️ Open in OSM
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43.10320, -71.52626
Open in OpenStreetMap
5-Day Forecast

Weather at Great Hill Loop

Live forecast for the trailhead. Use it to pack and time your hike.

Avg High79°F
Avg Low58°F
Peak Rain Chance71%
Humidity79%
UV (avg)5
Air Quality62 · Moderate
Today
🌦
Rain Showers
84°/60°
💧 12%🌬 17mph
↑ 5:32 AM ↓ 8:12 PM
Wed
🌦
Rain Showers
76°/61°
💧 48%🌬 13mph
↑ 5:33 AM ↓ 8:11 PM
Thu
🌦
Rain Showers
67°/58°
💧 71%🌬 8mph
↑ 5:34 AM ↓ 8:10 PM
Fri
🌫
Fog
81°/55°
💧 22%🌬 6mph
↑ 5:36 AM ↓ 8:08 PM
Sat
☁️
Overcast
85°/57°
💧 5%🌬 10mph
↑ 5:37 AM ↓ 8:07 PM

Forecast data © Open-Meteo. Refreshed every 6 hours. Always check the most recent forecast before heading out.

About Great Hill Loop

Great Hill Loop is a expert hiking trail near Bow in Merrimack County, New Hampshire.. The surface is dirt. Trail data is sourced from OpenStreetMap.

What “Expert” Means

Long backcountry routes (20+ miles), alpine grades, via ferrata, or extremely technical terrain. For experienced hikers with proper conditioning, navigation skills, and gear.

Difficulty is derived from OpenStreetMap’s Swiss Alpine Club (SAC) hiking scale, trail visibility, surface, distance, and elevation gain. Always verify current conditions before heading out.

See more expert trails →All New Hampshire trails →

What to Pack & Wear

Personalised to this trail’s length, elevation, difficulty, and the live forecast.

👔 What to Wear

  • 👕
    Moisture-wicking T-shirt
    Light color, breathable.
  • 🩳
    Lightweight shorts or pants
    Quick-dry preferred — sweat dries fast.
  • 🧢
    Brimmed sun hat
    Better than a cap for back-of-neck protection.
  • 🥾
    Trail runners
    Breathable mesh uppers.
  • ☔
    Rain jacket / shell
    71% chance of precipitation in the forecast.

🎒 What to Pack

  • 💧
    Water
    Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
  • 🍫
    High-energy snacks
    A snack for the trail.
  • 🧴
    Sun protection
    Sunscreen, sunglasses, brimmed hat.
  • 🔦
    Headlamp + spare batteries
    Long days can run late — never rely on phone flashlight alone.
  • 🩹
    First-aid kit
    Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
  • 🗺
    Offline map
    Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
  • ⛑
    Helmet (terrain-dependent)
    Expert routes may include scrambling or rockfall risk.
  • 🛍
    Dry bags for electronics
    Phone, camera, and snacks should stay dry.

Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.

Trail Safety in New Hampshire

Trail conditions in New Hampshire change with weather, season, and fire activity. Closures, washouts, and rerouting are common. Before heading out:

  • Check with the land manager for current conditions and closures
  • Tell someone your plan and expected return time
  • Know your turn-around limits — conditions can change fast
  • Carry the 10 essentials: water, food, navigation, first aid, light, fire, shelter, knife, sun protection, extra clothes

Frequently Asked Questions

How hard is Great Hill Loop?

Great Hill Loop is rated Expert. Alpine, exposed, or technically demanding. For experienced hikers only.

Can I ride a bike on Great Hill Loop?

Yes — bicycles are allowed on this trail.

What is the trail surface on Great Hill Loop?

The surface is dirt. Natural surface — sturdy footwear recommended; can be muddy after rain.

When is the best time to hike Great Hill Loop?

New Hampshire has trail conditions that vary by season. High-elevation routes are typically best from late spring through early fall; expect snow at higher altitudes outside that window. Always verify trail status (closures, washouts, fire restrictions) with the local land manager before going.

Nearby

Other Trails Near Great Hill Loop

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Great Hill Loop

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Sunlit footpath winding through a tall conifer forestPhoto: Jay MantriEasyNH

Great Hill Loop

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Sunlit footpath winding through a tall conifer forestPhoto: Jay MantriEasyNH

Walter's Way

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Sunlit footpath winding through a tall conifer forestPhoto: Jay MantriEasyNH

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Sunlit footpath winding through a tall conifer forestPhoto: Jay MantriEasyNH

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