Lewiston, ME 04240

Chatham, NH 03813

Description

South Baldface is located in Evan’s Notch, and offers an incredible amount of hiking above tree-line based on the relatively low elevation of its summit. At the top, you’ll get views of the Carter Ridge and the Wild River Wilderness. The hike is 3 miles one way and well marked. The uphill sections are relatively mellow. About 2/3 of the way to the top you’ll pass by the South Baldface Shelter, which is located right below the tree-line and is a great place to spend the night. This also makes South Baldface a great intro backpacking trip. This hike also has an awesome swimming hole (the emerald pool) indicated by a sign at the first turn 3/4 mile into the hike. You should defiantly check it out on the way up or down and take a dip if it’s warm. The summit and ridge of this hike are almost always super windy so bring some warmer layers even if its warm and sunny.

Directions

Park in the parking lot on the east side of the road. Follow the road north for a couple hundred feet to reach the trailhead on the east side (there is a big sign indicating that it’s the boldface circle trail). Follow this for 3/4 of a mile until you reach a junction. Check out the emerald pool on your right, and then hike back to the junction and continue following the Baldface Circle Trail towards South Baldface. There is another junction shortly after, again stay on the Baldface Circle Trail. Continue for another 1.5 miles until you hit the lean-too. The trail continues behind the lean-too onto the exposed ledges. Follow blazes and cairns to the ridge, and follow the ridge to the top!

Trailhead Location:

2223 Main Rd, Chatham, NH 03813

44.237886°N, 71.015786°W

Additional Notes

Don’t forget some warmer clothes for the top! If its a clear day bring a camera too.

See also: Baldface Loop