A relentless but popular winter hike over two 4,000-foot summits with classic Franconia Notch views! We'll be using the Whitehouse Trail, Liberty Spring Trail and Franconia Ridge Trail up and back.

Finding the trailhead: Travel north on Interstate 93, past exit 33, until the highway becomes the Franconia Notch Parkway. Take Parkway exit 1 and drive north on U.S. Highway 3, 0.2 mile past the second driveway for the Flume Visitor Center. The trailhead turnoff is designated by a sign for the Appalachian Trail Parking before northbound US 3 reenters the Franconia Notch Parkway.

Total Distance: 10.2 miles
Elevation Gain: 4,250 feet
Amount of time: 7:15
Park Fee: $3 per vehicle WMNF Parking Fee

Equipment: All hikers should dress for winter conditions. They should have winter insulated hiking boots, snowshoes, traction/MicroSpikes for icy conditions and headlamp. Sunset is around 4pm. This hike is weather sensitive. Official weather advisories, high winds or rain cancels. Please watch your email for changes and cancellations.

Hike Description: After a warm-up approach, this climb to Liberty entails a long, steady slog up the west slope of the mountain followed by a short ridge walk to the summit. We continue to Mt. Flume, following the southbound Franconia Ridge Trail off Liberty summit, which actually descends east off summit, dropping steeply over ledges and large rocks.  

After The Hike: We'll pitch in and have a post-hike Pizza Party at my house in Waterville Valley around the fireplace. We'll stop at a store on the way back for you to buy beer/wine. Bring a change of clothes to freshen up and take a shower at the house. 

Lodging Option: Lodging available the night before and after the trip at my house in Waterville Valley for $20 each night. Cost includes a continental breakfast with coffee. Accommodations are dormitory style bunk beds. Hot showers, bed linen, towels, soap, shampoo, full use of the kitchen and fireplace is included. No need to bring a sleeping bag. RSVP IS REQUIRED AND SPACE IS LIMITED TO EIGHT GUYS.

Trip Leaders: Mike Boisvert and Jon Normand