Velvet Rocks Shelter

About

Velvet Rocks Shelter is a backcountry three-sided shelter on the Appalachian Trail within the White Mountain National Forest, positioned 1.2 miles from the trail's western terminus near NH Route 120 and the Chase Field House in Hanover. The shelter is accessed via a 0.2-mile blue-blazed side loop that diverges from the main A.T. at approximately 0.8 miles from the Dartmouth sports fields. The shelter sits at the base of the Velvet Rocks ledges, a series of granite outcrops that offer scenic views. From the shelter, a trail continues 0.3 miles up the ledges before descending steeply to rejoin the A.T. Hikers can loop back to Hanover (2.6 miles) or continue north toward the top of Velvet Rocks. Amenities are minimal: a privy is located nearby, but there is no potable water on site. Water can be found along the loop trail but is unreliable during dry periods and must be treated before use. As a backcountry shelter, this is a pack-it-out facility with no trash service.

Directions

From the Mobil Station by the Hanover Co-Op, follow the gravel road along the south edge of the Dartmouth sports fields, following the white A.T. blazes. At 0.8 miles, take the blue-blazed side loop trail (left fork) for 0.2 mile to reach the shelter.