Imp Face
A rewarding hike in Pinkham Notch, NH, featuring dramatic ledges and panoramic mountain views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best light and fewer crowds
Imp Face
Best Time
Best light and fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A rewarding hike in Pinkham Notch, NH, featuring dramatic ledges and panoramic mountain views.
"Easier hike with a great view, offering stunning vistas of the Imp Face and surrounding ranges."
Check Weather Before You Go
Conditions can change fast! Icy ledges are common in spring. :cloud:
Wear Sturdy Hiking Boots
Essential for the rocky and potentially wet river sections. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Imp Face Ledges
Summit area
Dramatic rock formations offering breathtaking panoramic views of Pinkham Notch and surrounding mountains.
Panoramic Vistas
Various points along the trail
Enjoy sweeping vistas of the Presidential and Carter ranges, especially vibrant during fall.
River Crossings
Lower sections of the trail
A more challenging, yet rewarding, part of the hike, especially after rain.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Imp Face
Trail Conditions & Gear
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Weather Before You Go
Conditions can change fast! Icy ledges are common in spring. :cloud:
Wear Sturdy Hiking Boots
Essential for the rocky and potentially wet river sections. :athletic_shoe:
Broken Hearted Imps and how not to waste those Bonbons
Consider Trekking Poles
Helpful for stability on descents and river crossings. :hiking_boot:
Clockwise Route Recommended
Start with the climb, end with the flatter road section. :arrow_forward:
Is helping heartbroken imps worth the trouble?
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Weather Before You Go
Conditions can change fast! Icy ledges are common in spring. :cloud:
Wear Sturdy Hiking Boots
Essential for the rocky and potentially wet river sections. :athletic_shoe:
Consider Trekking Poles
Helpful for stability on descents and river crossings. :hiking_boot:
Clockwise Route Recommended
Start with the climb, end with the flatter road section. :arrow_forward:
Parking Can Be Limited
Arrive early, especially on weekends. :car:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Hikers generally praise Imp Face for its accessible trail length and rewarding, beautiful views, especially from the ledges. The clockwise route is often recommended for a more manageable experience. However, some find the descent technically challenging after rain due to river crossings and rocky terrain.
"Easier hike with a great view."
Hayley Anderson
"Round trip of 11 km with about 400 meters of altitude difference. Parking at 2 places along the road. At the ranger station one kilometer north you can get a description. We walked the round trip clockwise. Starting with a 2.2 ml climb, not too steep and not technically difficult. The views of the imp face are beautiful. Then a good 3 ml down along bollards and through rivers, this is, certainly shortly after the rain, a technically more difficult part to walk. The last ml is almost flat but along the road. It took us 4 hours and 15 minutes including 2 stops of 15 minutes."
anne-beth heijnen
""
Ben Smith
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Imp Face trailhead is located along NH-16 in Gorham, NH. There are parking areas available directly off the road. Some reviews mention a ranger station about a kilometer north for more information.
Yes, there are two parking areas along the road near the trailhead. However, these can fill up quickly, especially on busy days. Arriving early is recommended. :car:
You can use GPS to navigate to the general area of Pinkham Notch on NH-16. Look for signs indicating the Imp Trailhead or parking areas.
From Gorham, NH, head north on NH-16. The trailhead will be on your right, marked for Imp Face. The drive is scenic and straightforward.
Public transport options to trailheads in this remote area are very limited. It's best to have your own vehicle or arrange a ride. :bus:
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no admission fee or ticket required to hike the Imp Face trail. It's a public hiking trail. :free:
Imp Face is accessible year-round during daylight hours. However, trail conditions can vary significantly with the seasons. :clock3:
No, there is no reservation system for hiking Imp Face. It's a first-come, first-served access. :clipboard:
Generally, no specific permits are required for day hiking on the Imp Face trail. However, always check with local authorities for any updated regulations. :scroll:
Yes, Imp Face can be visited in winter, but it requires proper winter hiking gear and experience due to potential ice and snow. The ledges can be particularly hazardous. :snowflake:
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
The round trip is approximately 11 km (about 6.8 miles) with around 400 meters (1312 feet) of elevation gain. Most hikers complete it in 4-5 hours, including stops.
It's generally considered an easier to moderate hike. The initial climb is not too steep, but the descent with river crossings can be technically more difficult, especially after rain.
You'll be rewarded with beautiful views of the Imp Face itself, as well as panoramic vistas of the Presidential and Carter mountain ranges.
Restroom facilities are typically limited at remote trailheads like Imp Face. It's advisable to use facilities before you arrive or be prepared for primitive conditions. :toilet:
The trail is generally well-marked, but it's always a good idea to carry a map or use a navigation app, especially if you're unfamiliar with the area.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The trailhead is in a more remote area. Your best bet for dining options will be in nearby towns like Gorham, NH, which offers various restaurants and cafes. :forkandknife:
Yes, you can bring your own food and enjoy a picnic at designated spots along the trail or at the summit. Remember to pack out all trash. :sandwich:
No, there are no food vendors or concessions available at the Imp Face trailhead or along the trail. You must bring all your own food and water. :water_wave:
Pack plenty of water and high-energy snacks like trail mix, energy bars, and fruit. For longer hikes, consider a packed lunch. :apple:
Gorham, NH, has several dining options. You can find local diners, pizza places, and pubs to refuel after your hike. :pizza:
📸 📸 Photography
The Imp Face Ledges offer the most dramatic and iconic photo opportunities. Don't miss the panoramic views from various points along the trail, especially during sunrise or sunset.
Early morning or late afternoon (golden hours) provide the best light for photography, minimizing harsh shadows and enhancing colors.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes. A polarizing filter can help with vibrant skies and reduce glare on wet rocks. :camerawithflash:
The ledges can be exposed and windy, so securing your gear is important. Be mindful of slippery surfaces when composing shots. :windblowingface:
Drone usage may be restricted in national forests and protected areas. Always check local regulations before flying a drone. :drone:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider hiking clockwise to tackle the more technical parts on the way down. Pack plenty of snacks and water, and encourage kids to enjoy the natural obstacles. The stunning views from the ledges will be a great reward for their efforts.
💰 Budget Travelers
Your main expenses will be transportation to the trailhead and any food or drinks you bring. Pack a picnic and water to save money on dining out. The experience itself is priceless, offering incredible natural beauty without a hefty price tag. :moneywithwings:
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Be prepared for varying weather conditions and bring appropriate gear, including a wide-angle lens and a sturdy tripod if you plan for long exposures. Safety is paramount on the exposed ledges, so always be aware of your surroundings.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Imp Face Trail
The trail is generally well-marked, but conditions can vary significantly. The upper sections, particularly the Imp Face Ledges, can be exposed and subject to rapid weather changes. Be prepared for potential ice and snow, even outside of winter months.
For those seeking a more technical experience, the descent involving river crossings and rocky terrain offers a good challenge. Sturdy hiking boots are essential, and trekking poles can provide valuable stability, especially after rain or during icy periods.
Capturing the Beauty of Imp Face
The best times for photography are during the golden hours – early morning and late afternoon. These times offer softer light, longer shadows, and more vibrant colors, enhancing the landscape's natural appeal. Consider bringing a wide-angle lens to encompass the vastness of the scenery and a polarizing filter to deepen the sky's blue and reduce glare on wet surfaces.
Be mindful of the elements when shooting. The ledges can be windy and exposed, so secure your equipment. The rocky and wet terrain also requires careful footing, so prioritize safety while composing your shots.
Seasonal Considerations for Imp Face
Summer brings warmer temperatures and generally more stable trail conditions, making it a popular time for families and casual hikers. However, be aware of afternoon thunderstorms, which are common in the White Mountains.
Fall is arguably the most spectacular season, with the foliage transforming the landscape into a riot of color. The crisp air is perfect for hiking, but be prepared for cooler temperatures and the possibility of early snow at higher elevations. Winter hiking is for experienced individuals only, requiring specialized gear and knowledge of avalanche risks and extreme cold.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit