The Moats offers trail runners a dynamic playground high above North Conway, New Hampshire. Stretching roughly 7 miles with an elevation gain around 1,200 feet, this trail flows along a ridge that challenges the body while rewarding the senses. The route weaves through dense fir forests where the trees lean in as if nudging you forward, and occasional clearings open up to crisp, sweeping views of the Presidential Range, daring you to pause but not to linger too long.

Starting from the Cathedral Ledge parking area, the Moats trail demands respect for its rocky roots and sudden inclines, calling for steady footing and mindful pacing. The terrain shifts quickly—from smooth single-track ribbons skirting cliffs’ edges to steeper pitches where your calf muscles tighten in response to the trail’s insistence. Hydration is non-negotiable here; the forest rarely reveals water sources once you ascend, so come prepared.

For those timing their run, early morning or late afternoon light casts a cool, smoky glow through the pines, energizing the path. Midday sun, by contrast, exposes the trail's ruggedness and can quickly sap energy, especially in summer heat. Footwear with solid grip and ankle support is vital. The ridgeline’s wind likes to test your balance and resolve, reminding you that nature here runs fiercely on its own terms.

On your way, keep an eye out for the Moats’ signature vistas—ledge formations that jut like natural balconies over the valleys below. Locals prize these spots for both the views and the challenge of pushing past the trail's high points without losing momentum.

This flow trail is not about speed alone; it’s about syncing with the rhythm of a mountain that resists impatience. If you respect the effort and come prepared, the Moats reveals itself as a sprint through wild New England that demands focus, rewards endurance, and lives alive with energy waiting to engage every runner willing to listen.