Gretchen Stuppy Carlson
The hike to Imp Face is on the list as one of the NH 52 with a View and offers incredible view of the Presidential range after only a short 4.5 mile hike. You will still gain over 1800 feet in just 2.2 miles so this hike has some steep sections. We did this hike during February and on a clear day it makes a fantastic winter hike.
The trail to Imp Face leads on to the Carter range so you can turn this into a longer hike if you wish. Below I share exactly what you should know about hiking to Imp Face or you can explore other adventures around New England and New Hampshire.
Looking to explore adventures around New England? I've spent almost my entire life living in New England and love to explore, photograph, and write about the region. You can find details of incredible hikes, hidden gems, delicious food and my top tips for traveling around the Northeast here and in my newsletter: Uncover New England.
Quick Look at the Hike to Imp Face
Distance: 4.5 miles
Elevation: 1850 feet
Difficulty: Moderate/Hard
This hike typically take about 3 hours. Our hiking time was just over 2 and 20 minutes as it was a cold winter day and we kept moving.
Imp Face Hike Overivew
The trail starts in the Pinkham Notch area and ascends to the cliffs on the West side of Carter Mountain at an elevation of 3,165’. The views fromt the cliffs look directly across the Valley to Mount Washington and the other Presidentials.
We did the trail as an out and back although it is possible to turn this into a loop that makes this 5.9 miles. This does involve some hiking on the road so not recommended during the winter when we did this hike and there are some river crossings.
Dave and I hiked Imp Face with Calypso (dogs are allowed on leash). This is a popular hike due to the incredible views.
The trail starts alongside a brook with waterfalls in the summer. There is a stream crossing after about 20-30 minutes of hiking and then the trail levels out for a bit through a lovely forest. Most of the elevation gain is the in last mile or so and it can be steep at times. We found that there would be a steep section followed by a more gentle incline. After 2.2 miles the trail opens up at the cliff face and there are truly spectacular views of the mountains.
The official top of Imp Face is past the overlook at a little cairn in the woods.
It’s worth reading All Trails for recent reviews about trail conditions.
Map of the Hike to Imp Face
Imp Face Hike: Things to Know
Parking
Imp Face is a popular hike due to the views, there is not parking lot, but a large pull off area on the side of the road. You will want to start the hike at the Imp Face North Parking Lot. This lot can fill up in the summer and fall so arrive early to get a spot.
Dogs on the Trail
Dogs are allowed on the trail on leash, but use caution at the overlook as there are cliffs. Calypso loved this hike and we saw another dog on the trail.
Looking for more incredible Hikes in the White Mountains of NH? Here are some of our favorites:
