Lincoln Brook Trail

Lincoln Brook Trail is a remote long-distance hiking route in the Pemigewasset Wilderness of the White Mountains, commonly used as the approach for Owl’s Head or as a segment inside multi-day loops (including the Pemi Loop). The corridor is built as a foot path (horse-free) and stays in the valley alongside Lincoln Brook for much of its length.

As a day hike, expect a long commitment and a trail that stays mostly flat-to-moderate in elevation while still feeling rugged. The character that defines the Lincoln Brook segment is rough footing and frequent work around the water—specifically, multiple unbridged stream/river crossings and sections where the brookside tread can be wet.

Trail conditions can hinge heavily on recent rain and stream level: crossings can become difficult and dangerous when water is high. Plan around that reality, especially if you’re counting on being able to step across cleanly rather than wading.

Route organization for Owl’s Head commonly places Lincoln Brook Trail after reaching it via the Lincoln Woods Trail; typical plans then connect onward to the Owl’s Head Path (the steep final push is on that ascent line, not on Lincoln Brook itself). In practice, many hikers treat the Lincoln Brook portion as the steady “valley miles” phase before the steeper work begins.

Over the Lincoln Brook portion, hikers often rely on counting stream crossings and following the brook-parallel tread to stay oriented. There’s also a notable “wettest/muddiest” reputation attached to this Lincoln Brook stretch, with sections that can get muddy and hard to follow without careful attention.

If you’re backpacking, the Lincoln Brook corridor can be a practical place to camp near water, and it’s used as a multi-day option for those doing extended White Mountains loops. The route length varies by how you pair it with other trails and bushwhacks in the larger Owl’s Head plan.

More information: Backpacking an Owl's Head Loop, Owl's Head Mtn | 4025 ft | NH - She Hikes Mountains, Owl's Head - Trekking Sketches