Hike New England is free and is a good guide for hiking information. But the map that they provide is useless. Being that you cannot print a copy is sized to your liking.
I personally like the options that Trails gives me, all the important info minus all the 17 of us made the trek today, type of fluff and filler (they have that as well, but it is not included in the hike description section). Rocks, dirt, trees, great views and a great time are all standard on all the hikes I have ever been on. Having a map that is large enough to read without a large highlighter line over the trail works better for me.
But yes if you are just looking for some info on the hike it is a good quick stop, but you get what you pay for.
For example: a general elevation gain number is useless unless you are aware of how that gain is, well gained. 1100 feet in gain is not that bad on a 1.5 mile trek, but what you don't know is that it all comes in the last 600 yards and you may need additional equipment (most folks don't read that Advanced, typically means more than a pair of Merrills and walking stick). That type of information is really important when planning an adventure, whether it is just a walk-about or a multi-day.
I should have mentioned that they used to have package rates or single trail rates. $80 is the unlimited rate, coast to coast, border to border.
Anyway, most, if not all trails in this area of the state are more on the mild side and are great fun hikes to get out on. Have a great summer getting out and enjoying the area.
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