Outside of Littleton, New Hampshire, and just a short drive from our Vermont HQ, is a pleasant path that leads to an ridge that has fantastic views of the town on Littleton. On August 8, my wife and I ventured to the top of Kilburn Crags (there is handy map!) to catch this view.
As far as these things go, this was an easy hike. The trail is wide and gradual the entire route. There is about 540 feet of elevation gain and the out-and-back trip is about 2 miles long. We took a leisurely pace and enjoyed the view for a good while - but we did not eat a meal on the route - which would have been nice. The entire trip took us about an hour. So - this is a great one if you have a dog in tow or kids who want to hike or you just want a quick, fairly easy hike, with nice views nonetheless. We were also lucky because the weather was nice.
On Route 18 (also called St. Johnsbury Road) near its intersection with 135 (North Littleton Road) there is a small parking area with a handy sign for reference, though it is easy to drive right on past.
Though the sign says the route is .7 miles, my GPS suggested it is a bit longer. Nevertheless, the 30 minute time prediction proved accurate - and that was with a bit of time soaking in the view at the top.
Somewhat oddly, the trip begins with a (recently, thank goodness) mowed path in a field next to a private house. This short jaunt leads to the trail proper. And I wondered if the guy who owns the house just mowed this for folks out the kindness of his heart. I would have liked to donate some money to his gas fund!
The trail is well defined and rather easy going - wide, well-worn, and gradually up hill. Nice way to travel if you can find it!
Finally, after a nice, well-shaded walk, you get to the crag, which is defined as a "steep or rugged cliff or rock face." From there, you can see Littleton, New Hampshire sprawled out below.
Not bad for such a leisurely stroll! There is also a hand picnic table at the top, but we did not pack lunch. Would be a great spot! By the way, when you are done with the hike, you should head in to Littleton and reward yourself at Bishop's Homemade Ice Cream - it is fantastic, and I personally highly recommend the cotton candy flavor. I know, it seems wrong, but trust me - fantastic!
And finally, here is a map of the hike as we did it:
Littleton from the top top the crags:
