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Hike the Northern Presidentials

Randolph, New Hampshire

Details

Distance

15.6 miles

Route Type

Point-to-Point

Description

Added by The Outbound Collective

This amazing traverse above tree line will lead you to the highest point in the Northeast, Mount Washington! Along the traverse you will summit Mt Madison, Mount Adams, Mount Jefferson, Mount Clay and the big prize, Mount Washington!

The Presidential Range is a mountain range located in the White Mountains of New Hampshire. They contain the highest peaks of the Whites and are named after Presidents of the U.S.

I also want to add that this range is known for having some of the worst weather in America, mainly because of the unpredictability of high wind speeds and whiteout conditions on the higher summits. Always be prepared and remember to use good judgment. Know when to turn back if you must--"The Mountains Will Wait For You."

This trip report will have you starting at the most northern end. Starting at the Appalachia trailhead you take the Valley Way trail to Watson Path for your first peak Mount Madison (5367 feet). From here you head down to The Madison Hut. From here you can either choose the Star Lake Trail to Mount Adams or the Gulfside Trail. I always saw pictures of beautiful Star Lake therefore, chose that trail. After Mount Adams (5774 feet) pick up the Gulfside Trail to the Jefferson Loop to summit Mount Jefferson (5712 feet). Then it was back on the Gulfside Trail you can then choose to go over Mount Clay or along the shoulder either trail will bring you to the Jewell Trail. Once on the Jewell trail follow it to the summit of Mount Washington (6288 feet). You can then descend via the Crawford path to Lake of the Clouds Hut. At the hut you will then head down the Ammonoosuc Ravine Trail back to the Marshfield Station Parking Lot off Base Road.

  • The summit of Mount Washington only can be driven or you can take the Cog Railway, World's First Mountain Climbing Train.
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Features

Hiking
Forest
Lake
Scenic
Waterfall
Wildlife

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Nearby

Madison Spring Hut to Lake of the Clouds Hut via Gulfside Trail

Hike the Imp Face Trail

Backpack to Osgood Tentsite and Hike Mount Madison

Snowshoe to Carter Notch Hut

Summit Mount Jefferson, Mount Clay, and Mount Washington

Hike Mount Jefferson