How difficult is hiking Mount Madison?

Mount Madison is rated as Very Difficult difficulty.

How long does it take to hike Mount Madison?

Typically, hiking Mount Madison takes 7–9 hours - round-trip via Valley Way..

Mount Madison

Q: What are the main hiking routes to Mount Madison?

The main routes to Mount Madison include: Valley Way & Osgood Trail - via Madison Hut., Airline Trail - direct ridge ascent..

Mount Madison is a 5,367-foot mountain at the northern end of the Presidential Range in New Hampshire.

Prominence: 466 ft Range: Presidential Range

Elevation: 5,367 ft

Mount Madison ridge illuminated by golden sunset in White Mountains, New Hampshire — Mount Madison stands bathed in warm summer sunset hues, its rugged ridge line sharply defined against the soft, hazy backdrop of the White Mountains. The expansive view captures the tranquil forest trails and distant peaks under a calm sky in New Hampshire's White Mountain National Forest.

Mount Madison peak with forested slopes and cloud shadows in White Mountains New Hampshire — Mount Madison stands prominently in the White Mountains of New Hampshire, bathed in late afternoon light with shifting clouds casting deep shadows across the dense forested slopes. This summer scene captures the rugged terrain and expansive ridge line within the White Mountain National Forest.

Snowy summit of Mount Madison at twilight with distant mountain ridges under clear evening sky — A serene view of Mount Madison's snow-covered summit at dusk, captured during late fall in the White Mountains. The icy ridge line glows softly under fading light, revealing the quiet majesty of White Mountain National Forest in New Hampshire.

Silhouette of Mount Madison ridge at sunset with soft orange sky in White Mountains — The dark silhouette of Mount Madison rises sharply against a smooth gradient of warm summer sunset hues in the White Mountains of New Hampshire. This tranquil scene captures the mountain’s distinctive ridge line as daylight fades over the White Mountain National Forest.

Snow-dusted rocky slopes of Mount Madison under cloudy winter sky — Mount Madison rises sharply under a cold, overcast sky in the White Mountains of New Hampshire. Snow dusts the rocky ridge line and foreground boulders, highlighting the rugged winter landscape within White Mountain National Forest.

Mount Madison peak dusted with snow under blue winter sky with evergreen trees in foreground — A serene winter afternoon captures Mount Madison's snow-dusted summit framed by dense alpine firs in the White Mountains of New Hampshire. The crisp blue sky contrasts with the rugged granite ledges and frosted forest trail below.

Silhouetted figure on rocky Mount Madison summit at dawn with misty background — A lone hiker stands atop the rocky summit of Mount Madison in the White Mountains, surrounded by the soft, muted light of early summer dawn. The hazy atmosphere gently blurs the distant ridge lines within New Hampshire's White Mountain National Forest.

Mount Madison peak with forested slopes and cloud shadows in summer afternoon light — Mount Madison rises prominently within New Hampshire's White Mountains, its rugged summit casting deep shadows over the dense forest trail below. The afternoon sun highlights the textured ridge line under a sky scattered with soft clouds, capturing the essence of mountain weather in the White Mountain National Forest.

Mount Madison Wooden sign reading “Entering Great Gulf Wilderness” beside a wet rocky trail under cloudy skies — A weathered wooden sign marks the boundary of the Great Gulf Wilderness as a narrow, wet trail threads through rocky alpine terrain. Low krummholz and scattered boulders surround the path, while a muted ridgeline fades into a mostly cloudy spring sky. The close-up composition emphasizes place, texture, and the transition into protected backcountry. Trip context places this image with Great Gulf Wilderness on the Mount Madison trip.

Mount Madison Sunlit forest trail with green foliage and moss-covered ground on Howker Ridge Trail in White Mountains — A serene forest trail scene along Howker Ridge Trail in the White Mountains, New Hampshire, captured on a clear spring afternoon. Sunlight filters through dense green foliage, illuminating moss-covered ground and a rocky path with dappled light. Trip context places this image with Howker Ridge Trail on the Mount Madison trip.

Rocky alpine slope with boulders, a small cairn, and cloudy sky in the White Mountains near Mount Madison — A rugged alpine mountainside in New Hampshire’s White Mountains, where granite ledges and a boulder-strewn slope climb toward a rounded high point under a mostly cloudy sky. Sparse krummholz and low shrubs cling to the rocks, while a small cairn and faint lingering snow patches hint at early-season conditions in the high country. Trip context places this image with Mount Madison.

Shallow alpine pools and a winding stream through tan grasses beneath a cloudy mountain ridgeline near Mount Madison — A quiet alpine wetland spreads across open tundra-like terrain in the White Mountains, where shallow pools and a narrow stream weave through tan sedges and low shrubs. Scattered boulders and a rocky ridgeline frame the horizon beneath a mostly cloudy sky, while distant slopes hold a few lingering snow patches in soft, diffused afternoon light. Trip context places this image with Mount Madison.

Wind-rippled alpine pond with lichen rocks below a talus-covered mountain under cloudy afternoon light near Mount Madison — A shallow alpine tarn sits in the foreground, its wind-rippled surface broken by lichen-covered rocks and a rough, stone-strewn shoreline. Beyond the water, a rounded mountain rises with broad talus and exposed rock, framed by low tundra shrubs and grasses. Soft, cloud-filtered afternoon light keeps the scene calm and evenly lit. Trip context places this image with Mount Madison.

Shallow water channels winding through alpine grasses and boulders under a cloudy spring sky near Mount Madison — Shallow water channels weave through tawny alpine grasses and scattered boulders, creating a quiet wetland mosaic beneath a mostly cloudy spring sky. Low rocky ridges and krummholz-like shrubs frame the midground, while a steep mountainside rises at right. Soft, diffused afternoon light emphasizes texture in the tundra-like terrain and lingering snow patches on distant high ground. Trip context places this image with Mount Madison.

Shingle-sided mountain hut with green shutters above rocky stream and lingering snow patches near Mount Madison — A weathered shingle-sided mountain building with green shutters sits above a rocky drainage where spring meltwater threads between boulders and lingering snow patches. Dark conifers frame the scene while a rugged ridgeline rises behind the structure under a bright, partly cloudy afternoon sky—an evocative shoulder-season moment in New Hampshire’s White Mountains. Trip context places this image with Mount Madison.

Stone cairn on a rocky ridge overlooking hazy mountain ranges and a broad valley under clouds near Mount Madison — A stacked-stone cairn anchors the foreground on a rugged, high-elevation ridgeline in New Hampshire’s White Mountains. Beyond the boulders and krummholz, layered mountain ranges fade into atmospheric haze above a broad valley. Broken cloud cover softens the afternoon light, emphasizing the textures of weathered rock and the quiet scale of the surrounding wilderness. Trip context places this image with Mount Madison.

Two stone cairns on a rocky alpine ridge with distant mountains and spring snow patches near Mount Madison — A wide springtime view from a rocky alpine ridge in New Hampshire’s White Mountains, with stacked-stone cairns perched among lichen-speckled boulders. Distant ridgelines fade into a broad valley of dark conifers while lingering snow patches cling to shaded gullies. Soft, cloud-filtered afternoon light adds depth and texture to the rugged terrain. Trip context places this image with Mount Madison.

Rocky mountain ridgeline above evergreen forest with small snow patches under scattered clouds near Mount Madison — A telephoto view isolates a rugged mountain ridgeline rising above dense evergreen forest in New Hampshire’s White Mountains. Exposed rock and talus define the upper slopes, where a few lingering snow patches cling to shaded pockets. Soft afternoon light and scattered fair-weather clouds keep the scene crisp and calm, with conifer branches subtly framing the foreground. Trip context places this image with Mount Madison.

Two small yellow wildflowers growing from brown leaf litter on a forest floor, softly blurred trees behind near Mount Madison — A close-up view of small yellow wildflowers rising from last season’s leaf litter on a quiet White Mountains forest floor. Soft morning light and a shallow depth of field isolate the delicate blooms while tree trunks dissolve into creamy bokeh behind them, highlighting the subtle textures of twigs, mottled leaves, and early-season groundcover. Trip context places this image with Mount Madison.

Sunlit moss and small plants on a decaying log in a shaded conifer forest near Mount Madison — A close-up view of vivid moss and tiny spring plants growing over a decaying log, lit by a patch of afternoon sun. The bright green textures stand out against a shaded background of conifer needles, fallen branches, and forest understory, creating a quiet, intimate portrait of the White Mountains woodland floor. Trip context places this image with Mount Madison.

Stone cairn on lichen rocks overlooking a snowy alpine ridgeline under cloudy afternoon light near Mount Madison — A telephoto view looks across a broad White Mountains ridgeline where late-season snow clings to rocky gullies and wind-scoured slopes. In the foreground, a small stone cairn rests on lichen-covered boulders, adding scale to the rugged alpine terrain. Layered clouds soften the afternoon light, revealing distant rounded summits fading into haze. Trip context places this image with Mount Madison.

Steep rocky alpine slope with patchy snow and frost-coated shrubs under a partly cloudy sky near Mount Madison — An upward view climbs a steep talus slope toward a rocky crest in New Hampshire’s White Mountains. Patchy snow lingers between angular boulders while low alpine shrubs show a coating of frost or rime. Broken clouds drift across a deep blue sky, giving the scene soft, even light and a crisp, cold-season feel. Trip context places this image with Mount Madison.

Long icicles hang from an icy rock ledge above snow and evergreens in a shaded forest near Mount Madison — A steep rock ledge in the White Mountains is glazed with ice, with long icicles hanging over a shaded forest floor. Patches of snow cling to mossy stone and evergreen branches while leafless hardwoods frame the close, upward view. Soft, diffuse afternoon light emphasizes texture in the frozen seep and rugged granite surfaces. Trip context places this image with Mount Madison.

Icicles hang from an icy rock ledge in a conifer forest with patches of snow and moss near Mount Madison — A close-up of a steep rock ledge in a conifer forest, glazed with ice and lined with long icicles. Patches of green moss peek through the frozen sheen while small pockets of snow cling to the stone and forest floor. Soft afternoon light brings out crisp texture in the ice and layered rock. Trip context places this image with Mount Madison.

Small stream cascading over dark rocks among mossy boulders and evergreen trees in soft light near Mount Madison — A small woodland stream slips over dark rock ledges between moss-covered boulders and dense conifers in the White Mountains of New Hampshire. Soft, filtered morning light highlights wet stone, exposed roots, and bright green moss, creating an intimate, quiet scene that emphasizes texture and the gentle movement of water through the forest. Trip context places this image with Mount Madison.

Small stream cascade over mossy boulders into a clear pool in shaded conifer forest near Mount Madison — A small cascade slips over a low bedrock ledge into a clear, shallow pool, weaving through mossy boulders in a shaded conifer forest. Dappled morning light catches the moving water and highlights textured rock faces, while leaf litter and evergreen understory frame the quiet stream channel in the White Mountains of New Hampshire. Trip context places this image with Mount Madison.

Patchy spring snow on alpine plants and lichen-covered rock with blurred mountain ridges beyond near Mount Madison — A close, ground-level view of patchy spring snow draped over lichen-speckled rock and low alpine plant mats, glowing with red and purple tones. Soft, diffused afternoon light and passing clouds keep the scene quiet and textured, while evergreen shrubs and distant ridgelines fade into a gentle blur in the background. Trip context places this image with Mount Madison.

Telephoto view of a forested ridge with a small mountaintop building above a hazy valley near Mount Madison — A telephoto view isolates a forested White Mountains ridgeline where a small mountaintop structure sits above a steep rocky outcrop. Beyond the ridge, a broad valley fades into spring haze, revealing patchy snow in open fields, scattered buildings, and winding roads. Soft afternoon light and atmospheric mist flatten distant contrast for a layered, quiet mood. Trip context places this image with Mount Madison.

Rocky alpine slope with rime-coated shrubs and patchy snow under a mostly cloudy sky near Mount Madison — A rugged alpine mountainside in New Hampshire’s White Mountains shows talus, low krummholz, and lingering snowfields dusted with rime ice. Under a mostly cloudy afternoon sky, a distant ridgeline fades into layered gray clouds with a brief window of blue, emphasizing the cold, transitional feel of early spring in the high country. Trip context places this image with Mount Madison.

Snow-dusted mountain ridge framed by evergreens, with icicles in the foreground and scattered clouds overhead near Mount Madison — A telephoto view looks across a snow-dusted mountain ridge in New Hampshire’s White Mountains, framed by dark evergreens and icy foreground branches. Patchy late-season snow clings to the upper slopes while a faint winding road or track cuts across the mountainside. Above, a blue sky with scattered clouds adds depth and calm to the scene. Trip context places this image with Mount Madison.

Rocky alpine overlook with patchy snow, looking across a wide valley to distant mountain ridges near Mount Madison — A high-elevation viewpoint looks out from lichen-speckled boulders and low alpine groundcover toward a broad White Mountains valley and a procession of distant ridgelines. Patchy late-season snow clings to the rocky foreground while soft afternoon light and thin clouds create gentle contrast and atmospheric depth across the forested slopes. Trip context places this image with Mount Madison.

Rocky White Mountains slope with patchy spring snow above evergreen forest under scattered clouds near Mount Madison — A wide White Mountains view looks across rocky subalpine terrain toward a distant ridgeline streaked with lingering spring snow. Dense spruce-fir forest fills the valley below while scattered clouds drift through a bright blue sky. The scene balances rugged granite textures, krummholz, and late-season snowfields in crisp, clear afternoon light. Trip context places this image with Mount Madison.

Rocky alpine ridge with patchy spring snow, lichen boulders, and a small cairn under clouds near Mount Madison — A broad, rocky summit ridge stretches across the White Mountains under a mostly cloudy spring sky. Lichen-covered boulders fill the foreground, with a small stone cairn perched to the right. Patchy snow clings to wind-scoured ledges and shallow gullies, while distant mountain slopes fade into soft, diffused afternoon light. Trip context places this image with Mount Madison.

Mountain valley overlook with evergreen foreground, small rock cairn, patchy snow, and layered ridgelines under clouds near Mount Madison — An elevated overlook opens onto a broad White Mountains valley, where layered ridgelines fade into light haze beneath a textured, partly cloudy sky. Evergreen trees frame the foreground, anchored by a small rock cairn and lingering patches of snow. Soft afternoon light and drifting cloud shadows create a calm, expansive sense of depth across the landscape. Trip context places this image with Mount Madison.

Small waterfall flowing over mossy rocks in a sunlit forest with fresh spring foliage in the White Mountains near Mount Madison — A small waterfall cascades over moss-covered boulders surrounded by fresh green foliage in the White Mountains during a clear spring morning. Sunlight filters through the trees, casting natural shadows and highlighting the vibrant moss and forest floor. Trip context places this image with Mount Madison.

Mount Madison Rocky mountain slope with snow patches and a wooden trail sign under partly cloudy afternoon sky in White Mountains near Osgood Trail — A rocky mountain slope in the White Mountains region of New Hampshire features patches of snow and a wooden trail sign indicating Osgood Trail, Madison Hut, and Howker Ridge Trail. The partly cloudy sky and diffused afternoon sunlight illuminate distant ridges and a valley below. Trip context places this image with Osgood Trail on the Mount Madison trip.

Mount Madison Snow-covered rocky summit area with low light and distant snow-capped mountains at dusk in the Presidential Range — This photo captures a rugged ridge dusted with snow under soft dusk light near Mount Madison in the Presidential Mountain Range, New Hampshire. The rocky terrain is blanketed in fresh snow, with a pastel glow in the sky hinting at sunset on a calm fall day.

Mount Madison View of frost-covered evergreen trees and forested ridges in the Presidential Mountain Range in fall — Photo capturing a late fall scene near Mount Madison in the Presidential Range. Frost clings to evergreen trees along a rugged trail, with layered hills fading into the distance under a cloudy sky.

Mount Madison Snow and frost covered rock cairn on mountain ridge with sun shining nearby at sunrise — A close-up of a snow and frost-covered rock cairn on a mountainous ridge at sunrise with the sun partially hidden and casting warm light over a wintry landscape near Mount Madison in the Presidential Range, White Mountains.

Frost-covered rocky ridge and small trees under a blue sky near Mount Madison, Presidential Range in late fall — A cold crisp day showcases a summit ridge densely covered with frost and ice crystals. The scene captures rocky terrain and small trees heavily frosted under clear blue skies, taken during a late fall hike near Mount Madison in the Presidential Range.

Mount Madison Frost-covered wooden trail sign for Air Line Trail with snow-covered mountain ridges and blue sky in the background — A close-up of a frost-coated Air Line trail sign post in the Presidential Range. The frozen trail marker contrasts against the snow-covered mountain ridges and patches of cloud on a bright, clear November day in the White Mountains, New Hampshire.

Mount Madison Winter frost on alpine shrubs above cloudy valley in the Presidential Range during fall — A crisp fall morning view from the Mount Madison hike in the Presidential Range shows rime-coated alpine shrubs and rocky terrain in the foreground, with a blanket of clouds resting over forested valleys and distant ridges under a clear blue sky.

Mount Madison Frost-covered alpine plants with a cloud-covered valley and clear blue sky in the background in the Presidential Range — Close-up view of frost-covered alpine plants sparkling under late autumn sunlight with a soft cloud inversion filling the valleys below in the Presidential Range of New Hampshire.

Snow-covered mountain hut surrounded by frosted trees and rocks under a clear blue sky near Mount Madison area in the White Mountains — Photo capturing a tranquil scene of a snow-dusted mountain hut nestled among frosted dwarf spruce and rocky terrain with soft twilight sky, near Mount Madison in the Presidential Range of the White Mountains, New Hampshire, during early November.

Mount Madison Photo of a frosted evergreen ridge in the Presidential Range with soft sunlight and shadows under low clouds in late Fall — A late Fall photo showing a ridge covered with frosted evergreen trees in the Presidential Range. Low sunlight casts long shadows over the snowy forest and rocky trail surface. A layer of clouds hangs low above forested terrain beyond the ridge.

Rocky ridge and frost-covered shrubs at dawn near Mount Madison in the Presidential Range — Early November dawn light illuminates frost-covered alpine vegetation and rocky surfaces along a ridge in the Presidential Range near Mount Madison. The cold mountain air crystallizes the shrubs creating a serene winter-prelude scene beneath a clear, pastel-colored sky.

Mount Madison Frost-covered rocky ridge illuminated by warm sunrise light with distant mountains and valley under clouds — This photo captures frosted rock formations bathed in warm golden light shortly after sunrise from the Mount Madison hike area. The rugged rocky ridge leads through lightly snow-dusted conifers, with distant mountains and a valley partially covered by low clouds in the background. The scene conveys the crisp, quiet onset of late fall in the White Mountains, highlighting texture contrasts between ice, stone, and forest canopy.

Rocky trail with frost-covered rocks and shrubs on a late fall day in the Presidential Range near Mount Madison, New Hampshire — A photograph showcasing frost-covered rocks and low alpine shrubs along a rocky trail, illuminated by late autumn sunlight near Mount Madison in the Presidential Range, New Hampshire. The scene captures crisp fall conditions with early winter frost on the terrain under a clear blue sky and distant light fog.

Mount Madison Frost-covered spruce trees on a ridge with frost-coated rocky ridge behind and sunlight shining from the right in the Presidential Range during fall — A late fall photograph near the Mount Madison area in the Presidential Range capturing frost-coated spruce trees in the foreground. The scene is bathed in soft afternoon sunlight casting long shadows over a frost-covered ridge with distant clouds above rolling hills under a clear sky.

Mount Madison A snow-covered trail sign reading 'AIR LINE, GULFSIDE TRAIL, MT — A frosted trail sign for the Gulfside Trail and Mount Adams stands covered in rime ice on a cold late fall day. Below, mountains draped in early snow and frost extend under a blue sky with clouds rolling over the distant ridges in New Hampshire's Presidential Range.

Frost-covered evergreen trees and rocky ledges at dawn near Mount Madison in the Presidential Range, White Mountains, New Hampshire — Looking across frost-covered evergreen trees and rugged rocky ledges at dawn near Mount Madison, the scene captures the quiet beauty of a late fall morning in the Presidential Range of New Hampshire's White Mountains.

Rocks covered in thick rime ice and frost with morning light on a mountain summit near Mount Madison, with low clouds in the background — A close view of rocks piled high with thick rime ice and frost on the summit area near Mount Madison in the Presidential Range. Diffuse morning sunlight casts shadows over the frozen landscape against a backdrop of low clouds and blue sky in late fall.

Mount Madison Frost-covered spruce trees glowing in golden sunrise light against a clear blue sky, with snow and rocks visible on the ground — This photograph captures frost-covered spruce trees bathed in warm early morning sunlight, taken near the Mount Madison area in the Presidential Range. The scene reflects a crisp, clear fall morning with a bright blue sky and a soft layer of snow on rocky ground beneath the frosted evergreens.

Mount Madison Frost-covered alpine shrubs and rocky terrain under soft light with distant mountain ridges and clouds in the background in fall — This photograph captures a frost-covered alpine landscape near the summit of Mount Madison on a clear fall day. The foreground features rugged frost-coated shrubs and rocky terrain, bathed in soft natural sunlight. In the distance, blue-shadowed mountain ridges stretch under a layer of rolling clouds on the horizon, highlighting the vastness of the Presidential Mountain Range in New Hampshire's White Mountains.

Close-up of frost-covered granite rocks and lichen under a clear blue sky near Mount Madison in fall — Detailed view of rugged granite outcrops dusted with frost and light snow, captured on a clear fall day near the Mount Madison area of the Presidential Range in New Hampshire.

Mount Madison Frost-covered mountain ridge with shadow cast on low clouds and a faint rainbow in clouds under a blue sky — A stunning late fall scene from the Mount Madison hike in the Presidential Range. Frost-covered ridge vegetation contrasts with dark forest below. A mystical shadow of the mountain appears on rolling low clouds, surrounded by a faint rainbow. Clear blue sky above and soft light create a serene alpine atmosphere.

Mount Madison View of frosted evergreens and rocky ridge overlooking distant mountains under a colorful fall sunset sky — A scenic view from the Mount Madison hike shows frosted evergreen trees and rocky ridge tops under a subdued autumn sunset. Low clouds stretch over distant forested mountains with warm purple and orange hues, highlighting the transition to early winter in the Presidential Range.

Snow and frost-covered ridge and evergreen forest in the Presidential Range viewed on a clear fall day near Mount Madison — A scenic view from the Mount Madison hike showing a ridge richly covered with snow and frost, overlooking a dense patch of snow-dusted evergreen trees under bright autumn sunlight. The contrasting shadows highlight the texture of the frost and the rugged mountain terrain in the Presidential Range during early November.

Snow and rime ice-covered rocky summit ridge near Mount Madison with soft golden sunlight and a bank of clouds below under blue sky — This photo captures a crisp late fall scene near Mount Madison in the Presidential Range of New Hampshire. Frosty rime ice covers summit cairns and frozen precipitation coats the rocky ridge. Low angled golden sunlight highlights the textured ice formations while low clouds flow below the ridge under a clear blue sky.

Sunrise over summit ridge near Mount Madison with frosted evergreen trees in foreground and warm orange sky above — A serene sunrise peeking over a ridge near Mount Madison in the Presidential Range. The sky glows warm orange while frost-covered evergreens frame the dark silhouette of the mountains. Crisp fall weather with low clouds hugging the summit line accentuates the peaceful alpine scene.

Alpine plants fully covered with frost crystals and light snow near rocky ground on Mount Madison hike in fall — Close-up of alpine vegetation thickly coated with frost crystals on the Mount Madison hike during late October fall conditions. Surrounding rocks and ground are lightly dusted with snow under soft daylight.

Evergreen tree branches coated with thick frost and snow in an overcast cold environment near Mount Madison, White Mountains — A close-up view of evergreen branches heavily coated with frost and snow, set against a backdrop of similarly frosted trees in a misty, overcast fall environment in the White Mountain National Forest. The scene captures early winter conditions during an October hike near Mount Madison in the Presidential Range.

Close-up of icy frost and rime covering summit rocks and cross marker on Mount Madison hike under cloudy sky — A close-up photograph showing a frost-encrusted summit marker and surrounding rocks enveloped in thick rime ice and snow. The white, textured ice crystals cover the rugged granite surface amid overcast skies. The scene evokes the harsh, cold conditions typical of late fall on the Mount Madison hike in the White Mountain National Forest.

Close-up of frost-covered rocks with snow on a foggy autumn day near Mount Madison in the White Mountains — Detailed close-up of frost-covered rocks on a foggy fall day near Mount Madison in the White Mountains. The wintry scene shows textured frost coating rugged stones under overcast skies, illustrating late October alpine conditions.

Mount Madison Small waterfall flowing between mossy boulders and evergreen trees with some autumn snow in a forest stream — A small cascading waterfall surrounded by large moss-covered rocks and evergreen trees with patches of early snow in White Mountain National Forest during fall.

Snow and frost covered rock cairn and rocky ridge trail in misty fall weather near Mount Madison in the White Mountains, New Hampshire — Photograph of a snow-covered rock cairn surrounded by mist and frost along a rugged ridge trail near Mount Madison in the White Mountain National Forest during late October fall season. Grey overcast sky shrouds the rocky terrain in soft diffused light, emphasizing icy textures and snow crust on granite surfaces.

Snow-covered large rock formations under gray sky near Mount Madison in the White Mountains — Detailed view of large rocks completely coated in thick snow and frost under overcast skies, photographed near Mount Madison during a fall hike in the White Mountain National Forest.

Rocky ridge dusted with snow and frost in foggy, overcast fall conditions near Mount Madison — This photograph captures a close-up of a rocky ridge dusted with fresh snow under dense fog near Mount Madison. The scene shows an overcast, muted fall day with frost clinging to jagged rocks and low vegetation. The trail surface is uneven and partially covered with snow, under gray diffuse light.

Snow and ice-covered trail sign on Appalachian Trail near Mount Madison, surrounded by snow-coated bushes and fog — A close-up photo of a trail sign on the Appalachian Trail near Mount Madison in the Presidential Range. The sign and surrounding juniper bushes are heavily coated with fresh snow and rime ice, under overcast sky conditions. Low visibility blankets the winter landscape in the White Mountain National Forest during late October fall season.

Close-up of rocky mountain summit terrain with light snow cover, lichen, and sparse vegetation under overcast sky near Mount Madison in the White Mountains — A close view of rocky summit terrain lightly dusted with fresh snow on a cloudy day, taken near the Mount Madison hike in the Presidential Range of the White Mountains. Patches of green lichen and frosted small shrubs contrast with the white snow under soft, diffused light in late October.

Wooden trail sign with frost and snow on Howker Ridge Trail near Mount Madison in White Mountains — A snow-covered wooden trail sign marks the Howker Ridge Trail on a foggy fall day in the White Mountain National Forest near Mount Madison. Ice and frost cling to the sign post and surrounding rocky trail terrain, showcasing the chilly alpine conditions.

Mount Madison Mossy tree stump and roots covered with a light layer of fresh snow along a forest trail in the White Mountains during fall — A close-up view of a moss-covered tree stump and roots along a forest trail dusted with fresh snow. The scene captures the quiet transition to early winter during a fall hike near Mount Madison in the White Mountain National Forest. Damp earth, fallen leaves, and rugged trail rocks contrast with the white snow, illustrating the evolving forest floor in October.

Mount Madison Shrubs heavily coated with frost and snow on a foggy mountain trail in the Presidential Range — A close-up view of frost-covered mountain shrubs shrouded in thick rime ice and fresh snow, creating a textured winter landscape near the Mount Madison area of the Presidential Range during late October.

Mount Madison Stacked rock cairn on rocky ground with autumn-colored forest and mountains under a blue sky with clouds — A stacked rock cairn stands prominently in the foreground atop rugged terrain with lichen-covered boulders and sparse shrubs. Beyond the cairn, an extensive view of rolling forested hills and mountains displays warm fall foliage hues under a partly cloudy sky. The scene captures the early autumn atmosphere along the Mount Madison hike in New Hampshire's Presidential Range.

Mount Madison Rock cairns beside a rocky alpine hiking trail with distant mountain ridges and a partly cloudy blue sky on the Presidential Traverse in the White Mountains during summer — A rugged alpine trail winds through rocky terrain marked by rock cairns under partly cloudy skies during a summer afternoon on the Presidential Traverse in the White Mountains.

Mount Madison Rocky hiking trail descending a mountain ridge with rocky ground and reddish grasses under partly cloudy summer skies, overlooking distant forested valleys in the White Mountains — A rocky, rugged hiking trail descending a mountain ridge under a partly cloudy sky in summer. The foreground shows uneven stones and patches of reddish grasses, with distant forested hills and blue sky peeking through clouds. This image captures the expansive landscape and atmospheric weather typical of the Presidential Range in New Hampshire's White Mountains.

Mount Madison Weathered trail sign on a tree in dense forest indicating Spur Trail, Thunderstorm Junction 1.1 miles, Mount Adams 1.4 miles — A weathered trail sign for Spur Trail is mounted on a tree in a dense forest of mossy conifers. The sign directs hikers to Thunderstorm Junction and Mount Adams, highlighting distances of 1.1 miles and 1.4 miles respectively. Soft filtered sunlight illuminates parts of the rough bark and lichen-covered branches in late summer light.

Mount Madison Close-up of a caution sign in a summer forest in the White Mountain National Forest warning about dangerous weather conditions ahead — A close-up photo of a caution sign posted in the wooded area of the White Mountain National Forest during summer. The sign warns hikers about the severe weather conditions ahead and advises turning back if the weather turns bad, highlighting the risk of exposure even in summer. The background shows dense forest with sunlit foliage under a clear blue sky.

Trail sign for Howker Ridge Trail and Mount Madison surrounded by yellow wildflowers and green trees in summer — A close-up photo of a trail sign for Howker Ridge Trail and Mount Madison. The sign is surrounded by vibrant yellow summer wildflowers with a backdrop of lush green forest under soft midday light.

Mount Madison Close-up of green moss with red sporophytes on a forest stump lit by sunlight near Howker Ridge Trail in the Presidential Range — A detailed close-up photograph of green moss with reddish-brown sporophytes illuminated by soft afternoon sunlight. The moss covers a weathered forest stump beside shaded conifer vegetation. This image was captured during summer on the Howker Ridge Trail near Mount Madison in the Presidential Range of New Hampshire.

View of evergreen-covered ridges and distant mountains under a partly cloudy sky in summer, taken from Howker Ridge area near Mount Madison — A late summer afternoon photograph captures dense evergreen forests on ridges with layered mountains stretching into the distance under a partly cloudy sky. Light and shadow play across the landscape, highlighting the rugged terrain of the Presidential Range area in New Hampshire's White Mountains.

Rime-Coated Summit Marker Above Mount Madison's Clouds poster — A heavily iced summit marker stands above rolling clouds and frost-covered rocks on Mount Madison.

Mountain Overview

Mount Madison is a 5,367-foot mountain at the northern end of the Presidential Range in New Hampshire. It is the fifth-highest peak in the state. Mount Madison was named after President James Madison. As the northernmost Presidentials summit, it overlooks the town of Gorham and features the Madison Spring Hut nearby. The summit consists of a cone of talus rocks with sweeping views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Mount Madison lies at the northern end of the Presidential Range and is the fifth-highest peak in New Hampshire. It was named in honor of James Madison, the fourth U.S. President, during the 1820 naming expedition. As the northernmost Presidential summit, it has long served as a gateway for hikers approaching the range from the Gorham side. In 1888, the Madison Spring Hut was built in the col between Madison and Adams – this was the first high-mountain hut in the United States, established by the Appalachian Mountain Club. (The hut has been expanded and rebuilt several times since.) Mount Madison’s summit is a cone of talus rocks with sweeping views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Nearby, the valley of Snyder Brook became a hub of early trail-building – many paths on and around Madison were cut in the late 19th century, reflecting the mountain’s popularity among the Victorian-era White Mountain adventurers.

General Info

Elevation

5,367 ft

Prominence

466 ft

Range

Presidential Range

Trail Type

Out & back - commonly.

Difficulty

Very Difficult

Exposure

High - very exposed to wind/cold above treeline.

Typical Time

7–9 hours - round-trip via Valley Way.

Best seasons

Summer and fall - winter for experienced only.

Water availability

Yes - Madison Spring Hut near treeline offers water when open.

Cell reception

Spotty - possibly at summit; generally weak elsewhere.

First Photo & Camera

Mountain

Mount Madison

Photo

Golden Hour on Mount Madison Ridge

Description

This landscape photograph showcases Mount Madison during a serene summer evening in the White Mountain National Forest. The late-day sun casts long shadows across the rocky ridge line, highlighting the mountain's textured terrain. Beyond the peak, layers of forested hills stretch into the distance beneath a partly cloudy sky, evoking the peaceful mountain weather typical of New Hampshire's White Mountains. The scene invites hikers and landscape photographers to explore the natural beauty of this iconic summit view.

Dimensions

5209 x 3473

Credit

Static map preview

Mount Madison: summit area with linked trail context.

Summit: 44.3283, -71.2767

Trails: Valley Way Trail, Osgood Trail, Howker Ridge Trail, Watson Path

NOAA / NWS Updated Mon, Sep 14, 2:23 PM EDT

36°F

Partly Cloudy Gorham, NH point forecast

Wind35 mph NW

Gusts46 mph

Precip1%

Humidity100%

MWOBS Higher Summits ForecastOfficial higher-summit outlook for exposed White Mountain terrain

5-Day Forecast

NOAA / NWS day and night periods near this summit point.

Mon

32°F

Mostly Clear

Tue

48°F / 39°F

Mostly Sunny

Wed

56°F / 44°F

Mostly Sunny

Thu

52°F / 45°F

Mostly Cloudy then Chance Rain Showers

Fri

49°F / 37°F

Slight Chance Rain Showers then Mostly Sunny

Forecast Snapshots

Choose 1-hour snapshots or 15-minute checkpoints from the NOAA hourly forecast.

CadenceTime

Mon 9:00 PM

Partly Cloudy

Temp36°F

Wind35 mph NW

Gusts46 mph

Precip1%

Humidity100%

NOAA hourly forecast period

Primary NOAA point forecast coverage is available for this summit location.

USNOGenerated Mon, Sep 14, 9:01 PM EDT

Sunrise6:23 AM Daylight Length12h 34m Sunset6:57 PM

Sunrise

6:23 AM EDT

Sunset

6:57 PM EDT

Moonrise

10:23 AM EDT

Moonset

8:10 PM EDT

Moon phase

Waxing Crescent

14% illuminated

USNO astronomy is available for this summit.

High-summit climate profile

1991-2020 Mount Washington climate normals. Daylight is calculated at South Twin Mountain.

Winter

Spring

Summer

Fall

0 / 3

Sources & method

Climate reference: Mount Washington, NH US · 6267 ft · 1991-2020

Solar reference: South Twin Mountain · 2026

Wind is not displayed: January hourly coverage is below the 80% threshold.

NOAA/NCEI · U.S. Climate Normals, Monthly 1991-2020 NOAA/NCEI · Global Hourly U.S. Naval Observatory · Complete Sun and Moon Data for One Day

Climatology describes typical conditions, not a forecast.

Drainage context only, not a crossing safety decision. 4 linked water references; expand a row for sources and notes.

Route note: Yes - Madison Spring Hut near treeline offers water when open.

Peabody River USGS historical • 4.8 mi context • 2 proxy gages No Current Live Data

StationPEABODY RIVER UPSTREAM OF ROUTE 16, NR GORHAM, NH • 01054112

USGS Historical

Peabody River context for Great Gulf, Imp, Carter-Moriah, and north Presidential trailheads after heavy runoff.

Nearby live proxy: Peabody River at Gorham, New Hampshire • Androscoggin River near Gorham, NH

Official source

Peabody River USGS historical • NWPS forecast • Observed Aug 24, 2026, 4:00 AM • 6.4 mi context 25.3 cfs · 1.94 ft gage · stable · fresh

StationPeabody River at Gorham, New Hampshire • 01054114

USGS Historical, Observed NWPS Forecast HADS Observed

Official source

Androscoggin River USGS historical • NHDES observed • Observed Aug 24, 2026, 3:15 AM • 8.6 mi context 1,380 cfs · 3.06 ft gage · rising · fresh

StationAndroscoggin River near Gorham, NH • 01054000

USGS Historical, Observed NHDES Observed NWPS Forecast HADS Observed

Official source

Israel River USGS historical • 5.4 mi context • 2 proxy gages No Current Live Data

StationISRAEL RIVER AB S B ISRAEL R, NEAR JEFFERSON, NH • 01130500

USGS Historical

Northern Presidential and Jefferson side context for Caps Ridge, Appalachia, and Waumbek / Starr King planning.

Nearby live proxy: Peabody River at Gorham, New Hampshire • Androscoggin River near Gorham, NH

Official source

Treat rising, stale, modeled, or missing readings conservatively.

Trail gradeGentle0–8%Moderate8–15%Steep15–25%Very steep25%+

Mount Adams → Mount Madison1.10 mi

Route order: Mount Adams → Mount Madison

Hover, touch, or use arrow keys for exact distance, terrain elevation, and grade. Terrain: 1 m USGS S1M DEM (NAVD88); summits: official NH48 elevations.

Mount AdamsConnected trailsClosest trail link

Trail: 1.10 mi
Gain: +1,002 ft
Loss: −564 ft
Time: 52 min

Summit-to-summit route

Mount Madison Mount Adams

Via AIR LINE / Gulfside Trail / Osgood Trail

0.90 mi straight-line • low point 4,787 ft • confidence: medium

Open peak guide

Mount Madison 5,361 ftcol / low point 4,787 ftMount Adams 5,790 ft

Mount JeffersonConnected trailsAdditional direct connection

Trail: 2.90 mi
Gain: +1,521 ft
Loss: −1,161 ft
Time: 1 h 44 min

Summit-to-summit route

Mount Madison Mount Jefferson

Via Caps Ridge Trail / Jefferson Loop Trail / Gulfside Trail / ISRAEL RIDGE PATH / AIR LINE / Osgood Trail

2.59 mi straight-line • low point 4,787 ft • confidence: medium

Open peak guide

Mount Madison 5,361 ftcol / low point 4,787 ftMount Jefferson 5,712 ft

Appalachia trailhead - US 2, Randolph.

Trailhead parking

Roadside parking, can be crowded on weekends

Trailhead

Appalachia trailhead - US 2, Randolph.

Capacity

60 vehicles (est.)

Dolly Copp (Pinkham B) Rd

FR 71

Closed

District Andro • Last updated Nov 19, 2025

Trailheads: Dolly Copp Campground Trailhead • Howker Ridge Trailhead (Bumpus Brook) • Pinkham B Road Trailheads

Verify official sources and posted signs before driving to a trailhead.

Technical difficulty (1-10)

Physical effort (1-10)

Difficulty class

Very Difficult

Typical completion time

7–9 hours - round-trip via Valley Way.

Risk factors

Above treeline exposure, Severe weather, Navigation, No cell service

Preparation notes

Check a summit forecast and carry windproof/warm layers; turn back if visibility or lightning risk increases. Download offline maps and do not rely on cell service; leave a plan with someone.

Bailout distance

0 mi

Weather exposure

High - very exposed to wind/cold above treeline.

Field planning note

Valley Way & Osgood Trail - via Madison Hut. - 8.3 - 4,100 - Very difficult - Out & back - same route. Yes - Madison Spring Hut near treeline offers water when open. Roadside parking, can be crowded on weekends

Water availability

Yes - Madison Spring Hut near treeline offers water when open.

Cell reception

Spotty - possibly at summit; generally weak elsewhere.

Best seasons

Summer and fall - winter for experienced only.

Terrain

Steep, rocky trail; extensive boulders near summit

Scramble sections

Yes - class 2 rock hopping and light scrambling on summit approach.

View type

360° - summit is alpine with sweeping views.

Summit marker

Rocky cairn - no sign; summit is a pile of boulders.

Flora / environment

Mixed hardwood and boreal forest low; alpine zone above ~4,500 ft

Mount Madison Route & Conditions

Route

Mount Madison's standard hiking options include Valley Way & Osgood Trail - via Madison Hut at 8.3 miles with 4,100 feet of gain and Airline Trail - direct ridge ascent at 8.4 miles with 4,100 feet of gain. A typical completion time is 7–9 hours - round-trip via Valley Way.

Terrain and exposure

This is a very difficult Presidential Range hike. Expect steep, rocky trail; extensive boulders near summit. Scrambling includes class 2 rock hopping and light scrambling on summit approach. Upper-mountain terrain includes mixed hardwood and boreal forest low; alpine zone above ~4,500 ft and 360°, summit is alpine with sweeping views. Weather and exposure are defining planning concerns here: high, very exposed to wind/cold above treeline.

Weather window

The best normal hiking window is summer and fall, roughly winter for experienced only. In September, average summit conditions are about 43 F. Check a summit forecast and carry windproof/warm layers; turn back if visibility or lightning risk increases.

Water, signal, and bailout

Water is available: madison Spring Hut near treeline offers water when open. Cell reception is spotty, possibly at summit; generally weak elsewhere. Bailout options include Madison Spring Hut as shelter and descend Valley Way, most protected route. Nearby live water context is available from Peabody River, Peabody River, and Androscoggin River.

Trailhead and access

The most common trailhead is Appalachia Trailhead, with room for about 60 vehicles. Roadside parking, can be crowded on weekends. Other linked starts include Edmands Col Cutoff / Airline Trailhead (Bowman), Dolly Copp Campground Trailhead, Howker Ridge Trailhead (Bumpus Brook), and Valley Way Trailhead (Appalachia), and 2 more. Seasonal access-road context includes Dolly Copp (Pinkham B) Rd.

Connected route context

Major linked trails include Valley Way Trail, Osgood Trail, Howker Ridge Trail, Watson Path, and Pine Link Trail. Nearby 4,000-footer connections include Mount Adams and Mount Jefferson.

Mount Madison

Area Map

Trails