Imp Shelter

- White Mountain Road, Gorham, NH 03581

Introduction / Overview

For dedicated hikers and intrepid adventurers across New Hampshire, the name Imp Shelter immediately conjures images of rugged terrain, rewarding views, and the deep, satisfying solitude of the White Mountain National Forest. Located in the heart of the formidable Carter-Moriah Range, just off the famed Appalachian Trail (AT), the Imp Shelter is not a traditional drive-up campground, but rather a vital and welcoming backcountry facility. It serves as an essential overnight stop for those traversing the challenging New Hampshire section of the AT, or for local hikers undertaking multi-day excursions in the region.

The shelter and its adjacent tentsite are managed to provide structured, low-impact camping in a high-use, sensitive wilderness area. Visitors, especially those traversing the demanding segment from the Wildcats to the Carters, often describe the Imp Shelter as "the most welcoming place could have hoped for." This site is renowned for its communal structure, its dedicated tent platforms, and a surprisingly spectacular mountain view that can afford "one of the most spectacular sunsets" a hiker could hope to witness. It embodies the best of New Hampshire’s backcountry hospitality: simple, clean, well-maintained, and perfectly situated for both rest and spectacular scenery. Due to its location in a high-traffic zone of the White Mountain National Forest, a small fee is charged, and the site is usually staffed by a caretaker during the summer season to manage the area and educate hikers on Leave No Trace principles.

Location and Accessibility

The Imp Shelter is situated within the expansive White Mountain National Forest (WMNF), specifically on a spur trail off the main Carter-Moriah Trail, between North Carter Mountain and Mount Moriah. It is located near the town of Gorham, New Hampshire, but unlike typical campgrounds, this location is strictly "hike-in" only, requiring a significant trek from the nearest road access.

The nearest official road-side reference is:

White Mountain Road, Gorham, NH 03581, USA (This address is for the general area/forest office, not the shelter itself).

The most common access points for the general Imp Mountain/Shelter area are the Stony Brook Trailhead or the Imp Trail parking areas, both located off Route 16 near Gorham. From the trailheads, it is a demanding hike—approximately 5 miles or more—to reach the shelter, requiring proper planning, gear, and awareness of the rugged New Hampshire terrain. Hikers should anticipate elevation gain and prepare for true backcountry conditions. Due to the remote nature of the shelter, there is no direct street address or simple GPS location for vehicles. Accessibility is defined by a dedication to hiking and self-reliance, making it a highly respected and sought-after destination for experienced New Hampshire outdoor enthusiasts.

Services Offered

The Imp Shelter and Tentsite provides basic, yet essential, services designed for Appalachian Trail hikers and serious backpackers while minimizing environmental impact. It is important to note that, as a backcountry facility, it offers highly rustic services compared to a developed campground.

• Communal Shelter: A closed structure, often referred to as a Mahoosuc Shelter or similar design, which is notably large. It features a spacious, lofted platform sleeping area that can comfortably accommodate approximately 8 to 12 people.
• Designated Tent Platforms: The site includes four smaller, individual tent platforms, which hikers are advised to expect to share (accommodating up to two small tents each), and one larger group tent platform. These platforms protect the sensitive ground from overuse.
• Water Source: A "wonderful water source" is available, typically a small, freely flowing brook or spring located down a short path from the shelter. This water must be filtered or treated before consumption.
• Cooking Area: A dedicated cooking area near the shelter, sometimes featuring a bench for resting while preparing meals. Note that open fires are generally prohibited in this high-elevation backcountry setting, and hikers should use their own backpacking stoves.
• Food Storage: A bear-proof storage system, specifically a metal bear box, is provided on-site. This is a critical service in the WMNF to ensure the safety of both campers and wildlife.
• Sanitation: The site is equipped with a composting outhouse (privy) to manage human waste responsibly in the wilderness.
• Caretaker (Seasonal): During the summer season, a caretaker is on-site to collect the required fee, oversee maintenance, and educate hikers on low-impact practices and local trail conditions.

Features / Highlights

The allure of the Imp Shelter lies in its location and the quality of the backcountry experience it offers to local New Hampshire hikers.

• Spectacular Sunset Views: Situated in an opening near the cooking area, the shelter boasts a clear view overlooking the mountains of the Carter-Moriah Range, offering "spectacular sunsets." The sense of accomplishment coupled with the view is a massive highlight.
• The Appalachian Trail Experience: The shelter is located directly on a spur trail of the AT, making it an integral part of one of the world's most famous long-distance trails. This location offers a unique opportunity to meet thru-hikers and be part of the trail’s unique culture.
• A Welcoming Respite: For hikers who have traversed the notoriously difficult trails of the nearby Carter-Moriah and Wildcat ranges, the shelter is lauded as a "most welcoming place," offering a sense of community and secure rest.
• Durable, Low-Impact Design: The construction—including the durable shelter and the elevated wooden tent platforms—is designed to concentrate hiker impact, keeping the surrounding WMNF healthy and "pristine" according to Leave No Trace principles.
• Unique Shelter Design: The large, closed shelter with its "lofted platform sleeping area" is noted for being "quite large" and provides a dry, comfortable space for many hikers.
• Managed Site: The presence of a caretaker in the high-use season ensures the site remains clean, organized, and follows best practices, a level of stewardship that is highly valued by responsible local hikers.

Contact Information

As a remote backcountry shelter, direct contact for reservations or information is typically handled through the managing body of the White Mountain National Forest or the Appalachian Mountain Club (AMC), which oversees trail facilities in this area. While the shelter itself is first-come, first-served, the fee and general information are linked to the WMNF Supervisor’s Office.

Address:

White Mountain Road,

Gorham, NH 03581, USA (General Area Reference)

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

Mobile Phone: +1 603-536-6100

Hikers should plan their trip by consulting the official U.S. Forest Service or AMC trail guides for the most current fee information (typically $15 per person per night, collected year-round) and detailed directions, as GPS navigation is unreliable for this specific site.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

The Imp Shelter is perfectly suited for New Hampshire locals who embrace the state's rugged outdoor ethos. Unlike commercial campgrounds, this site offers an authentic, necessary stopover for serious backpacking within the region’s crown jewel—the White Mountain National Forest. For a New Hampshire resident, a trip to the Imp Shelter is a badge of honor, signifying successful navigation and traversal of some of the state’s most beautiful and challenging trails, particularly the Carter-Moriah Range.

It is an unparalleled resource for local hikers because it guarantees a safe, low-impact, and managed resting spot with essential amenities like a bear box, reliable water, and a composting toilet, all of which are critical for survival and conservation in the WMNF backcountry. The shelter fosters a unique sense of camaraderie among fellow hikers, allowing New Hampshire adventurers to connect with the broader trail community. Ultimately, the Imp Shelter provides not just a place to sleep, but a deeply rewarding experience, culminating in spectacular mountain views that remind every local exactly why they live and hike in the Granite State.

Imp Shelter

White Mountain Road, Gorham, NH 03581, USA