With its thousands of acres of protected highlands, 3,165-ft. Mt. Monadnock was designated a National Natural Landmark in 1987. There are 40 miles of maintained foot trails, many of which lead to the bare rock summit through unique alpine vegetation. Unsurpassed 100-mile views to points in all six New England states are the reward for a climb. A magnet for hikers, Monadnock is said to be the second most frequently climbed mountain in the world, after Japan's Mt. Fuji. Approximately 12 miles of the trail system in the lower elevations offers ski touring for the experienced cross country skier.

The main trail up Monadnock starts at the end of a paved road. Trail information and maps are posted near the Visitor Center at the start of the trail. The Monadnock Visitor Center offers interesting exhibits on various aspects of the park's history, ecology and trails. Monadnock State Park is a carry in/carry out park site; please carry home what you carry in. Remember there are no facilities available on the mountain.

The park is open year-round, with recreational use during daylight hours only. Admission is $4 for adults; $2 for children ages 6-11; children ages 5 and under and NH residents age 65 and over are admitted free.

PDF Map

Camping
The quiet camping area of Monadnock State Park Campground, located at the base of Mount Monadnock, has 28 campsites. Ten of the sites are by reservation only; 7 are for youth group reservations; and 11 are for first-come/first-served campers. The campground has flush toilets, running water, firewood, and a camp store located in the campground area. Showers are available.

Even though Monadnock is considered to be one of the most climbed mountains in the world, there are typically available first-come/first-served peaceful campsites open in the campground. We encourage you to call the park directly at 603-532-8862 to check on campsite availability regardless of reservations.

The campground is open year-round. Reservable stays must be made from Memorial Day weekend through Columbus Day weekend. Services are limited after the close of the reservation season - pit toilets are open during the winter, but water and firewood are not always available, and the campground road is not plowed.

Organized youth group camping is popular at Monadnock State Park. Reservations for youth group camping are required. From after Columbus Day weekend and up to Memorial Day weekend, group reservations must be made by calling the park directly.

Directions:

Route 124
Jaffrey, NH 03452
Phone: 603-532-8862

From Route 3 (Northbound):
Take Route 3 north to exit 7 in New Hampshire. Follow Rte. 101A west to Rte. 101 west to Peterborough, turn left for 202 west to Jaffrey. Turn right onto 124 west and follow signs to Monadnock State Park.

From I-93 (Northbound):
Take 101 west to Peterborough, turn left for 202 west to Jaffrey. Turn right onto 124 west and follow signs to Monadnock State Park.

From I-93 (Southbound):
Take 101 west to Peterborough, turn left for 202 west to Jaffrey. Turn right onto 124 west and follow signs to Monadnock State Park.

From I-95:
Follow Rte. 101 west to Peterborough, turn left for 202 west to Jaffrey. Turn right onto 124 west and follow signs to Monadnock State Park.

From I-91:
Take Exit 28A, follow MA Rte. 10 to NH Rte. 119 east. Take Rte. 202 east to Jaffrey. Turn left onto 124 west and follow signs to Monadnock State Park.

Concord, NH (1 hour, 15 minutes)
Boston, MA (1 hour, 45 minutes)
Springfield, MA (1 hour, 45 minutes)
Providence, RI (2 hours, 30 minutes)
Hartford, CT (2 hours)
New York, NY (4 hours)
Portland, ME (2 hours, 45 minutes)
Burlington, VT (3 hours, 30 minutes)
Montreal, Canada (5 hours, 30 minutes)
Source: New Hampshire State Parks