Imp Shelter, located off White Mountain Road in Gorham, New Hampshire, provides a basic overnight option for hikers within the Campgrounds & RV Parks category. It can be reached at (603) 536-6100 or +1 603-536-6100 for general inquiries, although reservations for shelters are typically not taken, and they operate on a first-come, first-served basis for hikers.
Based on customer reviews, Imp Shelter offers a relatively large shelter that can accommodate around eight people, potentially more with a lofted platform sleeping area. In addition to the main shelter, there is one group tent platform and four smaller platforms, with the understanding that sharing the smaller platforms with another tent may be necessary, especially during peak times. A bear box is available for secure food storage.
The environment surrounding Imp Shelter is in the White Mountains, offering scenic views, particularly a "nice but not extraordinary" view from the tree opening near the cooking area and a "spectacular sunset" overlooking the mountains as noted by one reviewer. A water source was reported to be available in early September and described as "wonderful" by another visitor.
Services and features at Imp Shelter are basic, catering to backcountry hikers. These include the shelter itself, tent platforms, a bear box for food safety, and a cooking area. Bathroom facilities are not explicitly mentioned but are typically rudimentary in backcountry shelters. The shelter is described as a "welcoming place" for hikers traversing the trails, such as those between Wildcats and Carters. For local users who are experienced hikers and backpackers in the White Mountains, Imp Shelter provides a convenient overnight stopping point along the trails. It is important to note that shelters are generally shared spaces and hikers should be prepared for basic conditions. There is no specific promotional information available.
Wheelchair accessible entrance
Wheelchair accessible parking lot
RV electric hookup
RV water hookup
Hiking
Running water
Tent sites
Camping fee
It's got a bear box, shelter (which holds 8 people, I think), one group tent platform and four smaller platforms. They advise that you should expect to share even the smaller platforms with 2 tents on it. When I visited rain was in the forecast so while platforms and the shelter were all (except for maybe one) in use nobody had to share as far as I recall. Caretaker was out. Water was available in early September. View from the tree opening near the cooking area is nice but not extraordinary.
After traversing from Wildcats to Carters, the Imp Shelter was the most welcoming place I could have hoped for. The shelter is quite large, easily accommodating 8 or so people, thanks to the lofted platform sleeping area. The view overlooking the mountains afforded one of the most spectacular sunsets I've had the pleasure of seeing. Wonderful water source, great cooking area, just an amazing spot!
Neat place. I'm not much of a backpacker but the Imp shelter area was a great experience. There is a mountain water source you can use and an outhouse (but it's only for #2). A variety of tent platforms are available and there is one cabin next to a stunning lookout point. There is also a dish washing station and a bear box for locking up scented/food items at night.
Shelter in great shape with water, privy and bear box. Very nice view from the outlook.
Great shelter! No too far off the trail. Good water source near the shelter
Well sheltered, as shelters go.