The Kilkenny Range holds the two Northernmost NH 4,000 footers. Mt Waumbek is a nice little climb out of Jefferson NH and Cabot is further North on the ridge. The ridge is a remote and particularly beautiful place.
THE TRAILHEADS
99% of the time, Mt Waumbek is hiked via the Starr King Trail Trail which is on a dirt road right off RT-2 just east of the village of Jefferson. In winter some park in a lot on RT-2. This is a moderate climb through serene woods over the minor summit of Starr King and across a beautiful ridge to the summit. The Kilkenny Ridge Trail begins at the summit of Mt Waumbek. There are usually hungry Gray Jays in the area
Mt Cabot has several common routes. Bunnell Notch Trail is one route to Mt Cabot to the Kilkenny Ridge Trail Parts are wet and muddy and some of the trail was relocated in 2004 because of it. The trailhead is near the Berlin Fish Hatchery
Unknown Pond Trail is still another route near the Fish Hatchery in Berlin. It climbs gradually to the Horn and the Bulge on its way to Cabot. Many do this as a loop (Up Bunnell down Unknown Pond) and bag 3 of the New England Hundred Highest in a day. I've done this hike twice and especially love the views from the Horn.
The last Trailhead I'll mention is at the Mt Cabot Trail which is located
in Jefferson and therefore a closer drive for most of us. Take RT2 to North road
(right) to Gore Road (right) to Pleasant Valley (right) to Arthur White. The Mt Cabot route has been "officially" closed due to a dispute with a landowner.
Many people though still hike this route and I think it's a better route in winter.
THE MOUNTAINS
Mt Waumbek 4,006'
Little Waumbek doesn't seem so little when you're driving north on RT-115A. I love the evergreen woods as you climb higher
and get closer to Starr King. The summit of Starr King has a chimney from an old
lodge that used to be up there. Some views can be seen but the trees are growing
and shutting those out. Waumbek has no views exept during a snowy winter when deep snow
puts your head above the trees to get some views.
Mt Cabot 4,170'
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Mt Cabot also has no views. There's a shelter nearby that sleeps maybe a
dozen people. Nearby is the Horn which has incredible views!
