Cooley-Jericho Yellow and Blue Trail Loop

The trail typically starts from the Trumpet Round Road kiosk. Parking is generally available at the trailhead, though specific details on capacity are not provided. It's always a good idea to arrive early, especially on busy days.

The Cooley-Jericho Yellow and Blue Trail Loop is located within the Cooley-Jericho Community Forest. Based on available information, there are no explicit mentions of permits or entrance fees required for hiking. However, it's always wise to check the official website for the Cooley-Jericho Community Forest before your visit for any updated regulations.

The trail features varied surfaces, including packed earth/dirt, rock/ledge, and sections with boardwalks or bog bridging. You'll also encounter river and stream crossings. The Blue Loop involves a steady ascent through young forests, while the Yellow Trail offers a more gradual climb to the view ledges, traversing attractive forests with some undulations and rugged sections.

You'll be rewarded with impressive panoramic views of the northern New Hampshire and northeastern Vermont mountains. The upper ledges offer sweeping vistas extending to prominent peaks like Mount Lafayette, the Kinsmans, Cannon, and Garfield. The trail also passes through diverse mixed forests, including young hardwood and spruce-fir, and features a spectacular natural fern glade along the Yellow Trail. You might also spot the remains of a fire tower on Cooley Hill.

While the overall difficulty is rated as easy, the trail does involve an elevation gain of approximately 190 meters over its 3.27-kilometer distance. The Blue Loop is considered moderate with about 900 feet of elevation gain, and the Yellow Trail climbs around 1000 feet. Hikers with some basic fitness should find it manageable, but beginners should be prepared for some steady ascents.

The Cooley-Jericho Community Forest is generally dog-friendly, but specific leash regulations are not detailed. It's best practice to keep your dog on a leash to protect wildlife and ensure a pleasant experience for all trail users. Always pack out any waste.

The trail offers beauty across seasons. Spring and fall provide comfortable temperatures and vibrant foliage. In winter, the multi-use trail system accommodates snowshoeing and backcountry skiing, but conditions can be challenging. Always check local weather and trail conditions before heading out, especially during colder months.

Yes, the route primarily follows sections of the Blue Loop and the Yellow Trail. It also includes a portion of Trumpet Round Road. Additionally, the Red Trail (0.7 miles long) connects the Yellow Trail with the Blue Loop, allowing for various alternative loop hike options within the network.

The Yellow Trail is generally less steep than the southern side of the Blue Loop, making it a good option for a more gradual ascent to the view ledges. It also features the natural fern glade and passes near the old fire tower remains. The Blue Loop offers a steady climb through young forests. Both provide excellent views, and you can combine them using the Red Trail for varied loop experiences.

The trail system within the Cooley-Jericho Community Forest is multi-use. Besides hiking, it accommodates mountain bikers, snowshoers, and backcountry skiers. Some portions are also used by snowmobilers, and the area includes developed ski glades for winter recreation.