Coppermine Shelter

Open — Open year-round, 24 hours per day on a first-come, first-served basis. No reservations.

About

The Coppermine Shelter is a historic backcountry shelter in the White Mountain National Forest's Pemigewasset Ranger District. Built in 1935 by the Civilian Conservation Corps using the standard Forest Camp Adirondack Shelter plan, this three-sided lean-to accommodates approximately 6 people and is part of the WMNF Hiking Shelter System, which is eligible for listing in the National Register of Historic Places. Reached via the Coppermine Trail, a 2.5-mile hike from NH Route 116 in Franconia, the shelter sits near beautiful Bridal Veil Falls. The trail parallels Coppermine Brook through hardwood forest, crossing the brook on a footbridge shortly before reaching the shelter. The shelter shows its age and history with hand-carved names and messages covering its interior. This is a primitive backcountry site with no privy or designated tent sites. Camping is only allowed at the shelter itself in this area due to Forest Protection Area regulations. Water must be treated or filtered from Coppermine Brook. Hikers should practice Leave No Trace principles and low-impact camping practices.

Directions

The shelter is accessible via the Coppermine Trail, a 2.5-mile hike from NH Route 116 in Franconia. The trailhead is located on private land on Coppermine Road just off NH Route 116. The trail parallels Coppermine Brook and crosses it on a footbridge before reaching the shelter near Bridal Veil Falls.

Nearby Campgrounds