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Table Rock New Hampshire is definitely the best hike in New England and it’s certainly up there with our top hikes in the world! This relatively short hike is the epitome of a bang-for-you-buck hike and, since there are different routes up, you can choose to challenge yourself more or less. The views of the White Mountains and winding roads at the top are out of this world and the Table Rock itself is so intriguing and unique. It’s got to say something that even after losing our drone up here (RIP Delilah the drone), we still rank it so highly.
Anyways, let’s get into it! Here’s all you need to know to hike Table Rock New Hampshire.
Where is Table Rock New Hampshire?
Table Rock is located in Dixville Notch State Park which is in the northern part of New Hampshire. It’s about 15 minutes outside the town of Colebrook, NH.
Overview of the Table Rock New Hampshire Hike
| Distance | 1.5 miles |
| Elevation gain | 750 feet |
| Time | 1-1.5 hours |
| Difficulty | Moderate |
| Trailhead | 44.86538, -71.31303 |
| Trail number | 50 or 57 |
| Entrance fee | None |
| Region | Dixville Notch State Park |
| Best time to visit | September-October |
| Dogs allowed | Yes on a leash |
| Good for kids | No |
Table Rock Hike Trailhead
There are two trailheads for the Table Rock Hike, one for trail #50 and one for trail #57. The trailhead for trail 50, the easier of the two routes, is near 44.86538, -71.31303 right along highway 26.
The trailhead for the much steeper Table Rock Climbing Trail, #57, is down the road on highway 26 on the other side of Lake Gloriette. This trail starts at 44.864839, -71.300719.
Table Rock New Hampshire Trail
Like I mentioned above, there are actually two trails to go up to Table Rock. Trail 50 is pretty moderate while I’m almost certain Trail 57 is the steepest climb we’ve ever done.
Trail 57
We went up the climbing trail, 57, since it was unbeknownst to us that there was an “easy way” option. While we had to take many breaks and I (being 5′ 5″) was using all fours to climb most of it, the climb itself was pretty short and a great challenge!
Trail 50
Once we were at the top we learned about trail 50, properly marked with a sign that says “easy way”, and we opted to take that down. I’m honestly so grateful we found it because going back down trail 57 would’ve been quite the challenge and slip-n-slide. The trailheads are a decent ways away from each other but we just walked along the shoulder of highway 26 and got back to our car just fine.
The summit
Once you finally get to through the wooded section and reach the summit, you can walk onto Table Rock and admire the views below. This part is definitely not for those with a fear of heights! The rock is only about 6 feet wide and side of the rock is a 700 foot sheer drop.
However, these are the views you’ve hiked for so I’d definitely recommend taking in the view for at least a minute! From here you can see the winding roads, Lake Gloriette, the rolling White Mountains and the abandoned Basalms resort.
Note: We were lucky enough to only have one other group up there when we went but many aren’t as lucky. To avoid crowds hike early or go on weekdays. And if you can’t do either of those, make sure to wait your turn to go out on Table Rock since it can be very dangerous with crowds.
Which trail to take for Table Rock?
Both trail 50 and 57 are great options! If you’re looking for a good workout and a little more challenge I’d definitely recommend trail 57. If you want a more moderate incline I’d suggest heading up trail 50. That said, if it has rained or it’s muddy, I’d 100% say take trail 50 since trail 57 will be a mess!
Regardless of the way you go up, I’d recommend coming down via trail 50.
How long is the Table Rock hike?
The Table Rock hike takes around an hour to an hour and a half round-trip, plus whatever time you spend at the top.
Is the Table Rock hike open?
Yes, Table Rock New Hampshire is open for hiking as of fall 2020.
COVID requirements and precautions
This trail is super narrow, so it’s important to have a mask accessible to put on for passing. I’d also recommend facing away from people when passing, not swapping phones/cameras to take photos for strangers and packing hand sanitizer to be extra careful during these times. Here are all of the current restrictions in New Hampshire.
Table Rock hike cost and required pass
Unlike many of the parks in New Hampshire, the hike to Table Rock is FREE and does not require a pass or reservation as of 2020.
How to get to Table Rock New Hampshire
Both trailheads are right off New Hampshire highway 26. If you’re coming from Colebrook just take the 26 east for about 15 minutes. Grab Google Maps directions to either of the trailheads (above) and you’ll find it just fine!
Table Rock New Hampshire parking
There is no official parking for the Table Rock hike. Most people park on the shoulder of highway 26 and if you take trail 57 there is a pull-off area to park in near the trailhead.
Best time to hike Table Rock New Hampshire
The best time of year to hike Table Rock is in the fall since the surrounding White Mountains show off some of the best fall foliage in New England. The best time of day to do this hike is early morning before the crowds.
Is Table Rock safe to hike?
Yes, with the right precautions Table Rock felt very safe! Even though trail 57 was steep, I was never scared. That said, I definitely needed all the traction I could get from my hiking boots and if the trail was wet it would’ve been a different story. Going out onto Table Rock itself felt very safe, as well, but we were still obviously super cautious.
Camping near Table Rock New Hampshire
The closest official campground is in Coleman State Park 7 miles away and you need to make reservations here. We ended up finding a free camping spot on our way to the area through the iOverlander app. Make sure you follow the camping laws of the park or forest, and always follow the leave no trace principles.
Planning to car camp? Check out our essential car-camping packing list before you go!
What to bring with you
- Backpack – especially if you take the steep trail, you’ll need your hands accessible.
- Hiking boots – you definitely need hiking boots with good traction to safely do this hike.
- Water – don’t forget to pack ample water
- Sunscreen & bug spray
- Headlamp – 100% necessary if you plan to hike at sunrise/sunset
- Camera – check out the camera gear we bring here
- Snacks – the picnic at the top is the best part of any hike, am I right??
- Mask
- Hand sanitizer – this is always nice to have, but it’s especially necessary during the pandemic.
Are drones allowed at Table Rock New Hampshire?
Yes, drones are allowed at Table Rock as of fall 2020. Like always, be careful and considerate when using a drone up here. Try to go early in the day so you can fly alone and not disturb others’ experience. And watch out for the trees! We lost our poor drone up there in the dense forest and it was so sad 😭 .
Tips before you hike
- Download Google Maps for the area before you go since service is limited.
- This hike is not great for kids or anyone with a fear of heights – please know your limits!
- Make sure you know the 7 Principles of Leave No Trace and take care of our beautiful outdoors!
Video of Table Rock New Hampshire
Things to do nearby
While you’re in the area, check out the town of Colebrook. Many of our favorite places in New England like Franconia Notch and Crawford Notch are a short drive away, too. Stowe, Vermont is also just two hours away and is a must-see town (plus it has world’s best apple cider!). If you’re on the hunt for more hiking, consider making the 4 hour trek to Acadia National Park in Maine.
Read next
- New England Fall Foliage: Top 10 places to see fall colors
- Stowe, Vermont – what to do in the cutest town in the Northeast
- Top things to do in Acadia National Park
- Our FAVORITE hikes in Washington
- Kelly Butte Fire Lookout – the best Mt. Rainier hike
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Enjoy your hike!
Kylie & Scott
(If you liked this article or have any questions, please comment below! And make sure to follow along on Instagram @LoveHardTravelOften)
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