Imp Shelter

imp shelter

For those of us in New Hampshire who truly live and breathe the mountains, there’s a distinct allure to backcountry camping. It's about earning your views, embracing simplicity, and finding solitude deep within the wilderness. If you’re a local seeking an authentic, rugged overnight adventure in the heart of our majestic White Mountains, then Imp Shelter is a name you need to know. More than just a place to pitch a tent, it’s a vital waypoint on the storied Appalachian Trail (AT), offering a welcoming respite for hikers and a genuine immersion into the natural grandeur of the Carter-Moriah Range.

Imp Shelter isn't your typical drive-up campground. This is a hike-in experience, requiring effort and preparation, but rewarding you with unparalleled tranquility and breathtaking scenery. It embodies the essence of primitive camping, where the focus is on the journey and the profound connection with the environment. The shelter itself is a communal lean-to, often described as quite large, capable of accommodating around eight people, sometimes more due to a lofted sleeping platform. This shared space fosters a unique camaraderie among fellow adventurers, especially those traversing the AT.

Beyond the main shelter, Imp also features several tent platforms. These elevated, hardened surfaces provide a much-appreciated flat and dry spot for pitching tents, a luxury in the often-rocky terrain of the White Mountains. While the expectation is often to share these platforms, the sense of community among hikers means it’s usually a respectful and cooperative arrangement. The site is generally well-maintained, often with a caretaker present during the peak season to assist hikers and ensure the preserve's guidelines are followed.

What truly sets Imp Shelter apart, as many seasoned hikers attest, are the simple but significant comforts it offers in a remote setting. A reliable water source is a crucial lifeline in the backcountry, and Imp delivers with a "wonderful water source" typically available nearby. The dedicated cooking area, complete with a bear box for secure food storage, underscores the importance of Leave No Trace principles in this active bear country. The views, particularly from a clearing near the cooking area, are often described as beautiful, providing a perfect backdrop for enjoying a well-deserved meal or simply taking in the mountain air.

This is a place where you can truly disconnect. There's no cell service, no Wi-Fi – just you, the mountains, and the camaraderie of the trail. For New Hampshire locals, this is precisely the appeal: a chance to step away from daily demands and reconnect with the wild, rugged beauty that defines our state. Imp Shelter isn’t just a place to sleep; it’s an integral part of the White Mountains hiking experience, offering a memorable and authentic adventure.

Imp Shelter is located on a spur trail off the Appalachian Trail (AT) within the White Mountain National Forest, near Gorham, NH 03581, USA. Its address of "White Mountain Road" is more of a general locator for the region rather than a direct drive-up point to the shelter itself. It's crucial for prospective visitors to understand that Imp Shelter is a hike-in only destination. It cannot be accessed directly by vehicle.

The shelter is nestled in the heart of the Carter-Moriah range, situated between North Carter Mountain and Mount Moriah. The most common access point for hikers is via the Stony Brook Trailhead, located off Route 16. From this trailhead, hikers will traverse approximately 2.4 miles up the Stony Brook Trail to meet the Carter-Moriah Trail. From that junction, a short spur trail (approximately 0.2 miles) leads down to the Imp Shelter and its associated tent platforms. Other access points, such as the Imp Trail parking areas also along Route 16, also lead to the general area, though the Stony Brook Trailhead is often preferred for reaching the shelter.

For New Hampshire locals, reaching the trailheads in Gorham is a manageable drive. From Concord, the drive is approximately 2.5 to 3 hours. From Manchester, it's roughly 3 hours, and from Portsmouth, about 3 to 3.5 hours. These drive times position Imp Shelter as a challenging but rewarding multi-day trip or a strenuous day hike for experienced locals.

Given its remote, backcountry location, there is no cell service at Imp Shelter. Hikers must come prepared with downloaded maps, sufficient water, food, and emergency supplies. The journey itself is an integral part of the experience, traversing rugged terrain with dense forests and rocky paths that are characteristic of the White Mountains. This hike-in accessibility ensures that the area maintains its pristine wilderness character, offering a true escape for those willing to earn their spectacular views and serene nights.

Imp Shelter, as a backcountry facility within the White Mountain National Forest, provides essential services tailored to the needs of hikers and backpackers rather than typical campground amenities.

• Shelter: The main feature is a large, communal Adirondack-style shelter (often referred to as a Mahoosuc Shelter) with a lofted platform sleeping area, capable of accommodating approximately 8-12 people. It provides basic overhead cover from the elements.
• Tent Platforms: In addition to the shelter, there are four smaller tent platforms (designed for 2 tents each) and one larger group tent platform (for 3-5 tents). These elevated platforms provide a flat, dry surface for pitching tents, which is especially valuable in rocky or wet terrain.
• Composting Outhouse: A composting toilet facility is available on-site, typically centrally located to serve both the shelter and tent platforms.
• Water Source: A reliable natural water source (brook or spring) is available nearby. While the water supply is generally good, filtering or treating all water is highly recommended, as it is not potable.
• Bear Box: A metal bear box (or similar bear-resistant food storage container) is provided in the cooking area for secure storage of food and scented items, crucial for mitigating bear encounters in this active bear country.
• Caretaker (Seasonal): During the peak season (typically Memorial Day to Columbus Day), a caretaker is on-site. The caretaker is responsible for maintaining the site, managing the composting toilet system, providing information and education to hikers, and collecting fees.
• Designated Cooking Area: There is a specific area for cooking, often near the shelter, to minimize human-wildlife conflict and maintain cleanliness. Open campfires are generally NOT allowed at Imp Shelter; hikers should bring a backpacking stove for cooking.
• No Fires Allowed: It is important to note that open fires are typically prohibited at Imp Shelter. Campers should bring a backpacking stove for cooking.
• No Potable Water/Showers/Hookups: As a primitive backcountry site, there are no potable water spigots, showers, or RV hookups. Campers must be fully self-sufficient regarding hygiene and water treatment.

Imp Shelter offers several distinct features and highlights that make it a compelling destination for experienced New Hampshire hikers and outdoor enthusiasts.

• Strategic Appalachian Trail Location: As a site directly on a spur trail off the AT, Imp Shelter is perfectly positioned for thru-hikers and section hikers exploring the demanding, yet incredibly rewarding, Carter-Moriah range. It serves as a crucial rest stop on a challenging section of the trail.
• Spectacular Sunsets and Views: Visitors frequently rave about the "spectacular sunsets" visible from openings near the cooking area, offering breathtaking vistas overlooking the mountains. While not "extraordinary" in every direction, the specific view afforded is certainly memorable.
• Generous Shelter Capacity: The main shelter is quite large, comfortably accommodating around 8 people, and possibly more with its lofted sleeping platform. This makes it a great option for groups or for finding space during busy periods.
• Tent Platforms for Dry Camping: The presence of multiple tent platforms (both individual and group) is a significant advantage in the often-wet White Mountains. These elevated wooden structures provide a level, dry surface for pitching tents, enhancing comfort and protecting gear.
• Reliable Water Source: A consistently flowing natural water source nearby is a critical amenity in the backcountry. While treatment is required, having easy access to water saves considerable effort.
• Bear Box for Food Storage: The provision of a secure bear box is a major highlight, alleviating concerns about proper food storage in an area known for bear activity. This is essential for safety and for complying with Leave No Trace principles.
• On-Site Caretaker: During peak season, the presence of a caretaker provides an added layer of safety, information, and assistance, contributing to a well-managed and educational backcountry experience.
• True Disconnection: The complete lack of cell service is a highlight for those seeking a genuine digital detox, forcing a deeper engagement with the natural surroundings and companions.
• Rich Wildlife Environment: The remote setting means opportunities for observing local wildlife, enhancing the wilderness immersion.

As a backcountry shelter and tent site within the White Mountain National Forest, Imp Shelter operates under the fee structure set by the U.S. Forest Service and does not offer traditional "promotions" or special discounts in the commercial sense. The fee helps to offset the costs of maintaining the facilities, staffing the caretaker, and preserving the wilderness environment.

The standard fee structure for Imp Shelter is as follows:

• Fee: $15 per person, per night.

This fee is collected during the caretaker season, which typically runs from Memorial Day through Columbus Day. Outside of this season, when a caretaker is not on-site, there is generally no fee required. However, facilities may be more limited during the off-season.

For Appalachian Trail thru-hikers, the Appalachian Mountain Club (AMC) sometimes offers a discounted "Thru-Hiker Pass" which can provide reduced rates at various shelters and tent sites in the White Mountains, including potentially Imp Shelter. This pass can offer significant savings for those completing long-distance hikes. Specific details on eligibility and benefits for such passes should be verified directly with the Appalachian Mountain Club.

It's always recommended to carry cash in small denominations for payment, as electronic payment options are not available in this remote location. The "special offer" of Imp Shelter lies in its affordability for a managed backcountry site within a premier hiking region, allowing access to stunning natural beauty and a pivotal part of the Appalachian Trail experience at a reasonable cost that supports conservation.

For general inquiries regarding the White Mountain National Forest or for information that might indirectly pertain to Imp Shelter (such as trail conditions in the Carter-Moriah range), you can contact the Forest Service office. However, please note that Imp Shelter itself does not have a direct public phone line for reservations or real-time availability updates, as it operates on a first-come, first-served basis for non-reservable tent platforms and shelter space.

Phone: (603) 536-6100 (This is the general number for the White Mountain National Forest Supervisor's Office in Campton, NH)

Mobile Phone: +1 603-536-6100 (Same as above)

Address: White Mountain Road, Gorham, NH 03581, USA

For the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding Imp Shelter, including specific guidelines, fees, and caretaker presence, hikers should consult:

• Official White Mountain National Forest resources (USDA Forest Service website).
• Appalachian Mountain Club (AMC) guides and websites, as they often have detailed information on AT shelters and tent sites.
• Reputable hiking forums and blogs, which may offer recent trip reports and conditions.

It is critical to remember that this is a backcountry location, and all planning and preparations (maps, water treatment, food, safety gear) should be made well in advance, as communication once on the trail will be limited or non-existent.

For us New Hampshire locals, Imp Shelter isn’t just a place to sleep; it’s an iconic piece of our state’s hiking landscape. It embodies the rugged, rewarding nature of exploring the White Mountains. We appreciate the challenge of a hike-in site, knowing that the effort is always repaid with an authentic wilderness experience that’s increasingly rare. The presence of a spacious shelter, coupled with well-maintained tent platforms, provides a crucial haven in these often-unpredictable mountains, offering a welcome sense of security after a long day on the trail.

The clear, crisp water source and the secure bear box highlight the thoughtful management of this backcountry site, demonstrating a commitment to safety and Leave No Trace principles that we, as responsible outdoor enthusiasts, deeply value. And while the views might not be a sweeping panorama from every angle, the glimpses of spectacular sunsets over the surrounding peaks provide exactly the kind of quiet, profound beauty that draws us to our mountains.

Imp Shelter allows us to truly disconnect from the demands of modern life – no cell service means no distractions, just pure immersion in nature. It fosters a unique camaraderie with fellow hikers, sharing stories and experiences under a blanket of stars so clear you can see the Milky Way. For a challenging yet deeply rewarding backcountry adventure that epitomizes the spirit of New Hampshire's White Mountains, Imp Shelter is an essential destination for any local seeking an unforgettable escape.

Imp Shelter

White Mountain Road, Gorham, NH 03581, USA