Related Read: The Best Time of Year to Visit New Hampshire 3. This will lead you to Liberty Gorge and other unique features along the trail. You can also take the Wildwood Path that goes north of the Great Boulder. When you reach the end, you can watch the various ice climbers trying their hardest to climb the gorge walls. It’s a very easy and relatively flat route that most people could hike. But that doesn’t mean you should cancel your trip to the area. However, in the winter, the trail closes at the raised boardwalk. In the warmer months, you can hike this trail throughout its whole loop. Why you should go: one of the best spots in the state to watch ice climbers.Īs one of the most iconic trails in all of New Hampshire, the Flume Gorge does not disappoint. Related Read: 6 Backpacking Trips in the White Mountains That are Unforgettable 2. Once on the top, take in the sweeping views and head back the way you came. It picks up steepness fairly quickly and your only reprieve is when you reach the ridge about a quarter mile from the summit. The trail leads you up next to Waterville Valley Ski area and starts off relatively flat. The weather in the White Mountains is notoriously fickle so always be on the lookout for changes. But the hike up Mount Tecumseh is not for a novice hiker and should only be attempted if you are 1) more experienced on the trails, especially those within the White Mountains, and 2) experienced in winter hiking specifically. In the winter, these trails see a lot less traffic and are even more majestic with a layer of snow on them. Most days throughout the summer, New Hampshire’s four-thousand-footers are overrun with hikers. Mount TecumsehĪ post shared by you should go: it’s a four-thousand-footer with spectacular views. To keep your water from freezing, store your bottle upside down and stuff it in a wool sock. Lastly, don’t forget to drink water! This might seem silly but people don’t sweat as much (or might not think they sweat as much) on a winter hike and forget to drink water regularly. If you need a reminder on trail etiquette, check out this article – the guidelines still apply in the winter. Although the saying “there is no such thing as bad weather, just bad gear/bad planning” isn’t my favorite, it has some truth, especially in the winter.Īlways remember to Leave No Trace and pack out what you pack in, these trails are only as good as we keep them. Other hikes will require snowshoes when the snow is deeper.Īlso be prepared with merino wool base layers to keep you warm and dry, an insulating layer over that, and then a waterproof and windproof layer on the outside. They are small, light, and easy to carry. Also, bring microspikes no matter what you think the trail looks like. Make sure you have good footwear to keep your toes warm and dry. On top of the Ten Essentials of Hiking that you should always bring with you on a hike, there are some modifications when you venture out in the winter. The Mount Washington Observatory has the best weather forecasts for the White Mountain National Forest region. It’s important to check the weather of your hiking destination before heading out to make sure you have the proper gear. Weather is always a huge factor to consider no matter the season, but especially in winter. Before you head out to the trails, make sure you’re prepared. But there are also some other things to remember about winter versus summer hiking. A fresh coating of snow also allows you the chance to check out wildlife tracks, so make sure to grab your field guide. The fluffy, freshly fallen snow is naturally sound-absorbant, leaving you with a serenely quiet hike. Winter is one of the best times to head outdoors because you get to experience things you wouldn’t otherwise. Even if you have hiked New Hampshire’s best trails in the summer, winter creates an entirely new landscape full of magic. While everyone else stays inside by the fire, head out onto the hiking trails where the paths are quiet and the views are endless. Winter might make the ski slopes busy in the Granite State, but the trails are peaceful and serene.
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |