Zealand Trail to Zealand Hut

The Zealand Trail is the access point to the Appalachian Mountain Club’s Zealand Hut as well as an entry/exit point along the Appalachian National Scenic Trail. The relatively short and easy one-way 2.8-mile hike makes the trail great for families and/or people looking for a shorter day hike.

From the trailhead, the blue-blazed trail slowly meanders through the mixed Zealand Valley Forest and across many little streams and brooks to come along side with the Zealand River. The trail continues its gradual climb out of the woods to a beaver pond and marsh area. Wooded boardwalks provide passage over the wetland and views of Zeacliff. A beaver dam can be seen on the opposite shore. Before crossing the outlet to Zealand Pond, there is an intersection with the A-Z Trail, which leads to neighboring Mount Tom. Stay straight on the Zealand Trail, cross the outlet and meet up with the AT trail. At this “T” junction, the Ethan Pond Trail, left, heads north along the AT. Take a right onto the Twinway Trail, which heads south on the AT and up to the AMC Zealand Hut. The now-white blazed trail will come upon a cascading Whitewall Brook, which provides a few soaking opportunities. Ascend the stone stairs, which will eventually end at the Zealand Hut. There will be a side spur trail that leads to a viewpoint and access to Zealand Falls. Once at the Hut, you will be greeted with a vast view east and south through the Zealand Gap to Mount Carrigain and other Pemigewasset peaks. Just past the hut, there is a side trail to Whitewall Brook. Hikers can eat and/or stay at the Zealand Hut with prior reservations.