Knock another 4000 footer off the New England 64 and get some amazing views of Grafton Notch State Park!
The first time I attempted this trail was in mid April, and the slush and mud I encountered was absolutely unbelievable. Snowshoes were useless. Crampons were useless. Boots alone meant dirty, wet, muddy feet. So, I had to bail. But I came back in October and I’m so glad I did because the views of the foliage were amazing!
The Old Speck Trail very quickly hits an intersection with the Eyebrow Trail. I recommend going up the Eyebrow Trail and then going back down the Old Speck Trail. The Eyebrow Trail is quite steep at parts and was a little sketchy when I tried to descend that way, hence going back around and down Old Speck. There is only one other intersection about 0.3 miles from the summit. There is a fire tower at the summit that I’m assuming has really great views, but unfortunately the summit was covered in clouds when I got there. The real views are definitely on the Eyebrow Trail, so you have to hit it either on the way up or down!
There is a parking lot at the trailhead with bathrooms and a map at the beginning for reference. I have not done too many solo hikes, but this was definitely one of my favorites!