Great Gulf Link Trailhead, Gorham, NH

Introduction / Overview

While the Great Gulf Wilderness is famously known for some of the most challenging, high-alpine hiking in New Hampshire—including the strenuous, rugged ascents to Mount Washington, Mount Adams, and Mount Jefferson—the Great Gulf Link Trailhead offers a more accessible, family-friendly entry point into the beauty of the White Mountain National Forest (WMNF). Located near Gorham, this specific trailhead is crucial because it connects a busy, developed camping area to the main trail network that plunges into the wild heart of the Presidential Range.

The "Link" in its name signifies its purpose: to provide a convenient, relatively easy connector trail. The route is often described as a leisurely stroll that follows the west bank of the beautiful Peabody River, passing by interesting pools and offering a gentle introduction to the White Mountains' scenery. This easy, low-elevation path is an excellent resource for local New Hampshire families, dog walkers, and campers at the adjacent facility who want a peaceful, nature-focused walk without committing to a full-day, high-elevation summit bid. For those looking for a starting point for more serious exploration, the Link trail seamlessly connects to the demanding Great Gulf Trail, which is the main artery into the Wilderness Area. It is a dual-purpose access point: a gentle walk for the casual visitor and a vital connector for the serious backpacker.

Location and Accessibility

The Great Gulf Link Trailhead is strategically located to provide convenience for campers and local users. It is situated in the eastern section of the WMNF, just off the main Route 16 corridor.

The physical location can be broadly referenced by:

Gorham, NH 03581, USA

More specifically, the trailhead's location is intrinsically linked to the historic Dolly Copp Campground, one of the largest and most well-equipped campgrounds in the White Mountains. To access the Great Gulf Link Trailhead, travelers from Gorham generally head south on NH Route 16 for approximately six miles, turn left onto Dolly Copp Road, and then proceed a short distance toward the main campground area. The trailhead is typically found at or near the end of the main campground road.

This accessibility—being located directly within a developed, large-scale campground—makes it exceptionally convenient for families and individuals staying nearby. While the adjacent Great Gulf Wilderness Trailhead, located a couple of miles south on Route 16, typically has a fee for parking, the Link Trailhead's accessibility from the Dolly Copp area sometimes allows for a more integrated experience for registered campers, although visitors should always verify current parking and access restrictions with the U.S. Forest Service or campground staff, especially regarding any ongoing construction or temporary closures.

Services Offered

Because the Great Gulf Link Trailhead is positioned within or adjacent to a major Forest Service campground, it benefits from services that are much more robust than a typical remote trailhead. The services are designed to support both casual day-use and the needs of campers.

Restroom Facilities: Unlike many primitive trailheads, this location often has access to flush toilets adjacent to the trailhead, owing to its proximity to the main Dolly Copp Campground area.
Developed Campground Access: Users of the trail benefit from the full range of amenities offered at the nearby Dolly Copp Campground, including coin-operated showers, water spigots, and a ranger station (fees apply for camping).
Parking (Seasonal/Fee Dependent): Designated parking is available near the trailhead or within the campground complex, though users must be aware of potential recreation fees levied by the Forest Service, typically paid via a self-serve system.
Trail Network Connectivity: The primary service is the trail link itself—a well-defined, easy path that connects the developed area to the extensive, high-difficulty Great Gulf Trail network.
River Access: The trail follows the west bank of the beautiful Peabody River, providing opportunities for hikers to enjoy the sound and sight of the water and access interesting pools.

Features / Highlights

The Great Gulf Link Trailhead is a local highlight for its ease of use and the quality of the immediate surroundings, serving a different, yet equally important, role than the rugged trails it connects to.

Ideal for Walking and Families: Customer reviews frequently praise the trail for being "Incredible for walking and families." Its easy rating and low elevation change make it perfect for young children, older adults, and those seeking a low-impact nature walk.
The Peabody River Scenery: The trail offers a lovely, gentle walk alongside the West Branch of the Peabody River, providing stunning riverside views, which is one of the most appealing features for a leisurely outing.
Gateway to the Great Gulf Wilderness: While the Link Trail itself is easy, it is a direct connector to the historic Great Gulf Trail, a highly challenging, primitive route into the largest glacial cirque in the White Mountains, under the massive slopes of Mount Washington.
High Connectivity: It links the amenities of the Dolly Copp Campground to serious backcountry adventure, allowing campers and locals to transition seamlessly from a developed site to the remote wilderness.
Accessibility from Gorham: Its proximity to Gorham makes it an extremely convenient escape for local residents who want to quickly access a well-maintained trail for a short burst of exercise or relaxation.

Contact Information

For information regarding the Great Gulf Link Trailhead, including current trail conditions, fees, or closures, hikers should contact the managing office for the White Mountain National Forest’s Androscoggin Ranger District, which oversees this area.

Address:

Gorham, NH 03581, USA (General Area Reference)

White Mountain National Forest Supervisor's Office Phone (General Information): (603) 536-6100

Androscoggin Ranger District Phone (Local Information): (603) 466-2713

Users are strongly advised to check the U.S. Forest Service website for any specific alerts, such as temporary trailhead closures or construction updates related to the adjacent Dolly Copp Campground.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

The Great Gulf Link Trailhead is an indispensable resource for New Hampshire locals who utilize the Gorham and Pinkham Notch region for outdoor recreation. Its primary suitability lies in its versatility. For local families, it provides a safe, short, and non-strenuous option—a true "incredible for walking" experience—that gets them into the natural splendor of the WMNF without the risk and heavy gear requirements of a major hike. This low-commitment entry is invaluable for fostering a love of the outdoors in children and for providing a relaxing, accessible nature retreat.

Furthermore, for experienced Granite Staters planning multi-day expeditions, the Link Trail serves as a reliable, convenient access and egress point, connecting the remote Great Gulf Wilderness to essential services and vehicle parking at a major campground. It represents the perfect bridge between the developed convenience of a large camping facility and the raw, untamed nature of New Hampshire’s Presidential Range, making it a well-loved and frequently visited spot for locals of all hiking abilities. The proximity to town and established services simply makes it an easy, high-value choice for a spontaneous walk or a planned launch into the state's most challenging terrain.