8.0 mi • 2,847 ft gain • 4-7 hours • Mount Osceola Trailhead
White Mountain National Forest to Temporarily Close Section of Lincoln Woods Trail for Public Health and Safety
Release Date: February 2, 2026 Contact Information: Colleen Mainville [email protected] Campton, NH, February 2, 2026—The U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service is temporarily closing a portion of the Lincoln Woods Trail to protect health and safety due to construction activities. Beginning February 9, the Lincoln Woods Trail from Route 112-Kancamagus Highway to the junction of the Osseo trail will be closed. The construction activity will take place for several weeks and a closure notice will be posted. This portion of the trail was originally damaged during Hurricane Irene, and the riverside trail has continued to be undermined. Without needed repairs, unchecked erosion will put the trail at risk for complete loss. Parking and trail access to the East Side Trail will continue to be available at Lincoln Woods Trailhead. The project will resume in June with another closure of the Lincoln Woods Trail. The Forest Service will provide additional details at that time. For more information or contact the Pemigewasset Ranger District at (603) 536-6100 x 0 Main Desk.
Source: Forest Service
Feels like -18°F
Best Hiking Window
Monday offers the most viable window if hiking is deemed necessary, as winds are forecast to subside compared to Sunday night's extreme gusts. However, temperatures will remain well below zero throughout Monday and the Wind Chill Warning persists through early Tuesday morning. Plan for an early morning start on Monday to maximize the approximately 11 hours of available daylight, be off the summit and descending before wind speeds increase again Monday night, and accept that conditions will still be difficult and demanding. Strong prior winter hiking experience, proper gear, and a conservative turnaround plan are non-negotiable. Tuesday brings increasing clouds and light snow by late in the day, making it a lower-priority option.
Distance
8.0 mi
Elevation Gain
2,847 ft
Duration
4-7 hours
Trailhead
Mount Osceola Trailhead
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