Granite Freedom Trek Update: Mount Willard & a New 10 AM Start

ByEric Brakey
Granite Freedom Trek: Mount Willard replaces Mount Pierce. Meet at 10 AM at AMC Highland Center, October 17, 2026.

The Granite Freedom Trek on Saturday, October 17, 2026, will now hike Mount Willard in Crawford Notch, with a 10:00 a.m. meeting time at the AMC Highland Center.

Based on the forecast reviewed by our guide, the originally planned Mount Pierce route could experience summit wind chills near 1°F. On the guide’s recommendation, we’re switching to Mount Willard.

Mount Willard offers sweeping views of Crawford Notch on a roughly 3.2-mile round-trip hike with about 900 feet of elevation gain. We’ll enjoy the mountain scenery and a chance to catch the remaining fall color, gather for photos at Saco Lake, and head to Basecamp Brewing in Lincoln for a meal together.

Updated schedule: Saturday, October 17

  • 10:00 a.m.: Meet at the AMC Highland Center, 2779 Route 302, Bretton Woods, NH.
  • 10:15 a.m.: Walk to the Mount Willard trailhead and begin the hike.
  • Around 1:00 p.m.: Group photos at Saco Lake, near the Highland Center.
  • Around 1:45 p.m.: Depart for Lincoln. Allow approximately 50 minutes for the drive, plus traffic.
  • 3:00 p.m.: Lunch at Basecamp Brewing, 25 S Mountain Dr, Lincoln, NH.

Post-hike times are approximate and may change with trail conditions and the group’s pace.

Parking

Please use the designated day-use area of the Highland Center lot. AMC currently charges $10 per vehicle, payable at the lodge front desk. Arrive early enough to park, pay, and meet by 10:00 a.m. Carpooling is encouraged.

Dress for cold weather

Even on this lower route, temperatures may be near freezing, with wind at the exposed overlook. Bring layers you can adjust during the climb and while we stop:

  • A moisture-wicking wool or synthetic base layer. Please avoid cotton.
  • An insulating fleece or puffy jacket.
  • A windproof, waterproof outer shell.
  • A warm hat, gloves or mittens, and a neck gaiter.
  • Waterproof hiking boots with wool socks, plus spare socks.

What to bring

  • Microspikes for potentially icy sections. Trekking poles are also recommended. Contact the organizers beforehand if you need help obtaining traction gear.
  • Water and a packed lunch or substantial snacks—we won’t eat at Basecamp until 3:00 p.m.
  • Hand and toe warmers.
  • A headlamp, small first-aid kit, and personal medications.
  • A fully charged phone.
  • Bright clothing for visibility during fall hunting season.

Save the trail map before you leave

Cell service in Crawford Notch is limited. Review the Mount Willard Trail map on AllTrails beforehand. AllTrails Plus or Peak subscribers can download the map for offline use. Otherwise, save a screenshot or bring a printed map as a reference.

On the trail

Please stay with the group and follow our guide’s directions. The guide may adjust the pace or turn us around if conditions warrant. Stay well back from the edges of the exposed ledges, particularly if surfaces are wet or icy.

If you have concerns about the hike or medical information relevant to your participation, contact the organizers privately before Saturday. We also recommend leaving a dry change of clothes in your car for afterward.

Already registered?

Please reply to the participant update email to confirm you’ve seen the new route and 10:00 a.m. meeting time. If you purchased tickets for others, forward the update to everyone in your party. If you have questions or can no longer attend, reply to that email or contact brakey@fsp.org. Day-of phone contacts are included in the participant email.

Big views, great company, and a meal together afterward. We can’t wait to see you Saturday!

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