Bearcamp River Trail: Bearcamp Pond Section

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Features Fall Colors · Fishing · Geological Significance · Historical Significance · Lake · River/Creek · Swimming · Views · Wildlife

While the section of trail between the river and Route 113 isn't explicitly closed, fording the rivers can be hazardous. According to the Tamworth Conservation Commission, there were attempts to re-locate this section of trail, but those plans fell through.

At one time, this trail existed as one long continuous trail. Many parts of the trail are either closed (due to issues with landowners) or inaccessible (due to neglect). A thru-hike of this trail isn't feasible, as only the open portions can be used.

This section is better if it's done from west to east. The closest parking (for the western terminus) would be at the Wilderness Loop Trailhead. Look for the trail sign on the south side of Route 113; the portion of the trail on the north side of the road is closed. The trail travels for 0.2 miles, then follows Top of the World Road (to the right). Follow the road until you see a sign for The Sandwich Country Angler; turn left up this road. In a short distance, you'll see the sign for the trail through the woods. Follow the yellow blazes, closely, as you make your way to Partridge Hill Road. Follow Partridge Hill Road (right) out to Vittum Hill Road. Turn left onto Vittum Hill Road and follow this to Vittum Hill Cemetery.

From the edge of the cemetery, look for the trail sign on the north side of the road. Here, the trail travels through the Carlson Family Trust Parcel to the eastern shores of Bearcamp Pond. Hug the shore, then turn right at the Bearcamp Beach parking. Follow Bearcamp Pond Road to the left until the bend in the road. Turn right (into the woods) before crossing over the Beacamp River. Cross over a small, questionable, footbridge. Follow the yellow blazes over old woods roads and singletrack. Follow the southern shore until you reach the "Ford or Return" sign. It is probably best to turn back from this point since much of the trail beyond here is lost to the ever-changing river.

The section of trail from the first river fording east to Route 113 is basically non-existent and most of it is fenced off.