Running in Jackson NH
-By Kyla Brustin
One of my favorite ways to enjoy Mt Washington Valley is to run it. If you live here or have a second home here, you may have seen me, my husband Josh, and our dog Lucy running through your neighborhood. Though most of our daily runs follow the streets of North Conway, one of my favorite places to go for a change of pace is Jackson. Jackson is a great running town, both for its views and for the workout its hills give your lungs and legs. For our threesome a Saturday morning 10k is perfect, and we often follow the same course as the annual Jackson 10k running and walking race that is held each year in June. The course starts at the covered bridge and heads over a gentle hill into town, where you pass the Wildcat Tavern, Yesterdays and the Jackson Grammar School. The fun starts as you ascend Route 16B, a steeply inclined and rather winding road that takes you past the Christmas Farm Inn. Your reward for making it to the top is a moment’s respite before ascending a gentler but still steep second hill that takes you to Black Mountain and The Whitney’s Inn. Yes, the first 2 miles will burn your quads, but the rest of the run is your reward. Turning left at The Whitney’s, the road flattens and you enjoy beautiful mountain views as well as a little downhill to where the road intersects with Carter Notch Rd (16A). Turn left again and head toward the Eagle Mountain House. This road never seems to have much traffic, and its hills are gentle and rolling. Come through a wooded section of road and enjoy a view of the Eagle Mountain House, reminiscent of old New England. One small hill more, and it’s all downhill from there as you follow the Ellis River back down into Jackson village. Pass the Snowflake Inn and your 10k is complete. Cool down by walking back to your car at the covered bridge. This is a run that is satisfying both for its physical challenge and its impressive scenery.
47 Dana Place Rd Jackson
If you would like to run Jackson on the weekends, there are some very affordable ways to be there. At
15 Middle Mtn Trail Jackson
Pinkham Real Estate, we are happy to discuss them with you. Call us (800-322-6921) or stop by. We look forward to hearing from you soon!