Join Don and myself as we hike Mount Osceola. The hike is 7 miles with 2025 feet of elevation gain. We’ll be climbing from Waterville Valley’s northwest pass, Thornton Gap, which is on Tripoli Road. The hike begins with a stony section between white birches, which leads to a series of gravel switchbacks. The switchbacks take us up to Breadtray Ridge with views of Waterville Valley ski center and the Sandwich Mountains. Then the trail crosses a small brook and ascends up to a ridge. Near the top of the ridge the trail levels off to a summit of spruces. Mount Osceola’s summit offers a panorama of amazing views. The descent will take us back down the same trail we took to the summit. The grade of the trail is mostly moderate with some steep sections. Dress appropriately for summer hiking. Bring a windbreaker/raingear (just in case).  Also bring along lunch, snacks and water.  We plan on having lunch on the summit. Optionally, pack bug repellent and sunscreen and anything else that you may require.

Directions from I-93 are as follows:  Get off Exit 31 (To Rt. 175 – Tripoli Road”). At the bottoms of the exit ramp, head east on Tripoli Road. The trailhead is 7 miles from I-93. Tripoli Road becomes a gravel road after a compile of miles. The parking area for the trailhead is located on the left side of the road. Parking is also permitted on the side of the road, in case the lot is full (park on the south/right side only).  We’ll be drving a red Mini-Cooper with white roof.