
McCarthy Trail is a small wooded loop offering dense New England forest scenes, stream crossings and layered foregrounds ideal for intimate landscape and seasonal-color shots. Best at golden hour or after rain for rich greens and reflections. Trailhead parking at 160 NH‑153; no fee. Trail is unpaved and moderately uneven—bring waterproof shoes and insect repellent. Fall foliage and winter snow transform the scene; weekdays and early mornings reduce hikers.

McCarthy Trail is a small wooded loop offering dense New England forest scenes, stream crossings and layered foregrounds ideal for intimate landscape and seasonal-color shots. Best at golden hour or after rain for rich greens and reflections. Trailhead parking at 160 NH‑153; no fee. Trail is unpaved and moderately uneven—bring waterproof shoes and insect repellent. Fall foliage and winter snow transform the scene; weekdays and early mornings reduce hikers.