Mount Willard Trail: A Complete Runner’s Guide

The Mount Willard trail is one of the best in White Mountain National Forest.

Why Mount Willard, you ask? Well, it’s simple. The trail is beginner-friendly, and the panoramic view from the top of Mt. Willard is breathtakingly beautiful, especially at sunrise and sunset. 

After running White Mountain National Forest’s trails on a few different visits now, I’ll give you everything you need to know about running to the summit of Mount Willard and enjoying this DYNAMITE view.

So, if you’re ready to run Mount Willard trail, let’s get into it!

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Mount Willard Trail Map

How To Get to the Mount Willard Trailhead

The trailhead starts at Crawford Depot, which is also where I ended my Presidential Traverse run.

There’s plenty of parking here. Though it can fill up fast during busier seasons, so I’d recommend doing this one early. Once you park, cross the train tracks right next to the depot building and you’ll see the sign for the start of the trail.

Running the Mount Willard Trail in White Mountain National Forest

After crossing the train tracks, the trail starts to head into the thicker part of the forest.

It’s relatively easy to follow, with the only potential wrong turn coming near the beginning. The trail will split, going left and straight. Follow the trail to the left and it’ll continue on through the forest and across a stream or two.

Eventually, the trail starts the climb which will go on for about the next mile and a half past some small waterfalls and the Centennial Pool.

The thing I love about this trail is honestly what many people probably hate…and that’s the large rocks.

I don’t know why, but I love the technical part of this trail and how each foot placement takes a decent amount of focus. It also helps we largely hike the path up, only running on a few small sections where it is runnable. But, that’s just more time we get to enjoy the trail.

The trail largely continues like this, sticking inside the dense forest and obscuring any sense of where you are until you get to the top.

You know you’re almost at the top when the trail does the east coast version of a switchback. Once there, it’s only another half mile to the viewpoint. Honestly, I didn’t expect the viewpoint when it arrived. It’s completely covered and surrounded by trees.

Then suddenly you pop out to an epic viewpoint like you’re entering a real-life storybook.

Depending on the time of day and season, this place can either be packed beyond belief, or completely empty.

I’ve had both.

The first time I did this trail, there were a decent amount of people at the top, but everyone was nice and got their picture before moving out of the way. The second time there were literally two people at the top when I arrived, so I got to enjoy it mostly to myself.

After enjoying the view for a bit, it’s back down the same trail. This is a chance to run a bit, though the rocks and roots can make it a bit difficult (and dangerous), especially when it’s wet.

One quick note: always yield to uphill hikers/runners on the way down. They’ve got it harder.

Mount Willard Trail Details

• Distance: 3.1 miles
• Elevation gain: 900+ feet
• Trail type: Out-and-back trail
• Time: ~1-1.5 hours

What To Bring on the Mount Willard Trail

The right gear can make a difference between a good run and a not-so-great one. 

So, here’s what I took to help you figure out what you should:

• Base layer
• Top layer (depending on season)
• Rain jacket (if necesssary)
• Running shorts
• Brooks Cascadia shoes (great with grip)
• Salomon pack/Outdoor Vitals pack
• Injinji socks
• Two 500mL water bottles
• Snacks
• Bug spray

And remember, pack it in, pack it out! Let’s keep the trail clean for everyone to enjoy.

Best Time To Run the Mount Willard Trail

There’s not really a bad time to do the Mount Willard trail.

But, there are better times.

Generally speaking — summer and fall are the best times to run the trail. Spring and winter are still fine, you just have to deal with a few more elements that aren’t necessarily run-friendly (ice, snow, etc.).

Fall is definitely the busiest time, so you’ll be slowing down and trying to pass groups if that’s when you choose.

Ultimately, go early, and you mostly avoid crowds no matter the time of year.

Other Trail Options Nearby

I’ve not nearly spent enough time in the Whites (especially compared to what I would like to), but I have had the chance to run many of its best trails.

So, here are a few I recommend that I’ve covered. Hopefully these can help you plan your running trip in WMNF as well.

• Presidential Traverse (19 miles)
• Mount Moosilauke (7.5 miles)
• Franconia Ridge Loop (8 miles)

Ready To Run Mount Willard?

The trail to Mt. Willard is one of my favorites I’ve ever done in New Hampshire. In my opinion, it’s one of the best trails in White Mountain National Forest (up there with the Franconia Ridge Loop in terms of views).

And, with the incredible view at the top. I could have sat up there all day staring at it. And I’m sure you’ll be the same.

So, I hope this post helped you plan your runs in the White Mountains. Be sure to let me know what trails you’re planning to run when you visit — there’s a good chance I’ve already run it!