The Horn via Bunnell Notch Trail and Killkenny Ridge Trail(edit)

Overview

This is a difficult out and back trail to The Horn in White Mountain National Forest.

This trail goes by Bunnell Rock, Mount Cabot, The Bulge, and Cabot Hut.

Getting Started

Bunnell Notch trail is commonly hiked with Unknown Pond trail when hiking the Horn. Bunnell Notch to Unknown Pond trail is a loop hike that summits 3 New England Hundred Highest peaks which includes one NH 48 4000 footers, Cabot, The Bulge and The Horn. The trail passes by Bunnell rock that offers a view to Terrace mountain. Around the 4 mile mark you will pass by Cabot cabin. Just beyond the cabin is the site on the old fire tower that was removed in 1965. From the old fire tower site you can get partial views, that includes the Franconia Ridge. Continuing up the trail to the summit there will be an spur trail marked with a cairn down to a spring on the east side of the trail. This spur trail is a thick overgrown trail. I wouldn't count on it as a water source unless absolutely necessary. Once at the marked summit of Cabot continue pass the sign about 50 feet to the unmarked but Obvious high point. Continue down the killkenny Ridge up and over the Bulge, which is marked with a cairn. Further along Killkenny Ridge you will come to a .2 mile spur trail to the summit of the Horn. Climbing the summit cone can be tricky for some, with rock scrambles near the top. The Horn has wide views in many directions including a view of the Pilot Range. Back down to Killkenny Ridge and down to Unknown Pond. Take notice and stay off of the Revegetation areas around the pond. Unknown Pond has a view across the pond to the Horn from the northeastern side. From the pond follow the southern branch of Unknown Pond trail back to York Pond road. A very short road walk will connect you to the two trail heads. There is small parking lots at the trail head and all overflow parking is along the south side of York Pond road.