Bigelow Mountain - West Peak
4,145 ft | 2 trails | Maine
4,145 ft
2 routes
Hard
About Bigelow Mountain - West Peak
At 4,145 feet, Bigelow Mountain - West Peak ranks among New Hampshire's celebrated 4000-Footers—a collection of 48 peaks that challenge and inspire hikers throughout the Northeast. This hard summit offers a quintessential White Mountain experience.
Popular Routes
The most popular route, **Fire Warden's Trail**, covers 10.8 miles and is rated Hard. Classic route to Bigelow Col, then traverse to both peaks.
Peak Bagging
**Extend Your Adventure:** Bigelow Mountain - Avery Peak lies just 0.5 miles away, making it an excellent addition for ambitious hikers looking to bag multiple summits.
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Check Current Conditions
Trail conditions change frequently. Check the official land manager's site (linked under Data Sources on this page) and the NWS forecast before your hike.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to hike Bigelow Mountain - West Peak?
Most routes on Bigelow Mountain - West Peak take 5-7 hours round trip. The most popular trail is 10.8 miles with Hard difficulty. Start early, especially on weekends when parking fills quickly.
Is Bigelow Mountain - West Peak hard to hike?
Bigelow Mountain - West Peak is rated Hard. At 4,145 feet, expect challenging terrain above treeline with potential for rapid weather changes. Proper footwear and preparation are essential.
Do I need a permit to hike Bigelow Mountain - West Peak?
No hiking permit is required for Bigelow Mountain - West Peak. However, parking fees may apply at trailheads (typically $3-5/day for WMNF or state parks). A WMNF parking pass covers most White Mountain trailheads.
What is the best trail to hike Bigelow Mountain - West Peak?
The most popular route is the Fire Warden's Trail, offering Classic route to Bigelow Col, then traverse to both peaks..
When is the best time to hike Bigelow Mountain - West Peak?
The best hiking season for Bigelow Mountain - West Peak is late May through October. Summer and fall offer the best conditions, though expect crowds on weekends. Winter hiking requires specialized gear and experience.
Best Time to Visit
spring
March - May
Muddy trails, snow above 3000ft until May
summer
June - August
Best weather, occasional afternoon thunderstorms
fall
September - November
Peak foliage late Sept, early snow possible in October
winter
December - February
Full winter conditions, extreme cold and wind above treeline
Summer Gear Checklist
- Sun protection
- Bug spray
- 3L water minimum
- Rain layer
Tip: Start early to avoid afternoon storms and parking issues. Peak crowds on weekends.
Safety Information
Current Hazards
- ⚠️ ALPINE ZONE: Weather changes rapidly. Turn back if conditions deteriorate.
- Winter conditions in effect - full mountaineering gear required
- Hypothermia risk - temperatures 20-40°F colder at summit
- Short daylight hours - carry headlamp
- Trail markers may be buried under snow
Turn-Around Time
2:00 PM recommended for summit
Plan to reach the summit by this time to allow safe descent before dark.
Essential Gear Checklist
* Critical items - do not hike without these
Emergency Contacts
Nearby Peaks
Explore other mountains near Bigelow Mountain - West Peak. Great for peak-bagging or planning your next adventure.
Bigelow Mountain - Avery Peak
4,088 ft
Sugarloaf Mountain
4,237 ft
Spaulding Mountain
4,010 ft
South Crocker Mountain
4,048 ft
Peak Bagging Tip
Bigelow Mountain - Avery Peak is only 0.5 miles away. Consider combining these peaks for a bigger day or overnight trip!