Admittedly, waking up before dawn to exercise is not everyone’s cup of tea. But if you’ve ever watched the sunrise from the top of the mountain, you know it’s truly worth making the trek at least once in your life. One of the best places in New Hampshire for a sunrise hike is definitely our beloved Mount Cardigan — and for beginning to moderate hikers, we recommend the Mount Cardigan Loop Trail .
Mount Cardigan is a beautiful bare-rock summit located in Orange and Alexandria in western New Hampshire.
Doreen Ladrie / alltrails.com The mountain is the highlight of Cardigan Mountain State Park.
The Mount Cardigan Loop Trail is a three mile trail you’ll find near Orange.
David Lescatre / alltrails.com To reach it, take I-89 to Rt. 4, follow Rt.4 east for 12 mile, veer left on Rt. 118, take a right at the Cardigan State Park sign, and follow the signs.
From the parking lot, start up West Ridge Trail.
Allison Breen / alltrails.com The loop mostly follows the West Ridge Trail, but it does cross with the Skyland Trail and the Ranger-Cabin Trail at times. Don’t worry, the path is well marked.
This trail is ranked as moderate, and for the most part, it’s a nice, steady climb to the top.
Adam Stauts / alltrails.com Needless to say, the rewarding views are well worth the hike.
The summit offers 360 panoramic views, and they look exceptionally amazing at sunrise.
Josh Clarke / alltrails.com The colors and the peaceful silence are indescribable.
Mount Cardigan is a popular place for early morning hikes, so you might have some company on your journey.
Pete Bolduc / alltrails.com But don’t worry, the mountain is big enough for everyone.
You may want to hike this trail before sunrise once or twice to gain familiarity.
Pete Bolduc / alltrails.com Also, make sure to use the buddy system and wear an extra layer or two. Mornings can be cold, especially on a mountain summit.
Whether you hike this trail at sunrise or any other time of day, you’ll love the stunning scenery and unparalleled views.
Snow Storm / alltrails.com But it’s truly worth setting your alarm and going at dawn at least once.
Have you ever hiked at sunrise?
Doreen Ladrie / alltrails.com
The mountain is the highlight of Cardigan Mountain State Park.
David Lescatre / alltrails.com
To reach it, take I-89 to Rt. 4, follow Rt.4 east for 12 mile, veer left on Rt. 118, take a right at the Cardigan State Park sign, and follow the signs.
Allison Breen / alltrails.com
The loop mostly follows the West Ridge Trail, but it does cross with the Skyland Trail and the Ranger-Cabin Trail at times. Don’t worry, the path is well marked.
Adam Stauts / alltrails.com
Needless to say, the rewarding views are well worth the hike.
Josh Clarke / alltrails.com
The colors and the peaceful silence are indescribable.
Pete Bolduc / alltrails.com
But don’t worry, the mountain is big enough for everyone.
Also, make sure to use the buddy system and wear an extra layer or two. Mornings can be cold, especially on a mountain summit.
Snow Storm / alltrails.com
But it’s truly worth setting your alarm and going at dawn at least once.
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Address: Mount Cardigan, Mt Cardigan, Orange, NH 03741, USA
