Join me for this moderate hike through the southern Ossipee Region looping around Mt. Roberts (2582') and the High Ridge Trail.  The hike offers numerous ledges and open views into the surrounding region as well as views northward to the the White Mountains.  There are also a couple of picturesque ponds, which we will pass through the day.  The total distance will be approximately 8.6 miles with about 1410 feet of elevation gain.  The plan is to take the Mt. Roberts Trail to the High Ridge Trail and descend by way of the Oak Ridge Cut-Off.  NOTE:  There are several options to shorten the hike towards the end, if the amount of daylight or the stamina of the group diminishes.  It should be fairly easy to cover the stated distance in a timely manner though.  The hike should be done by 4PM.  We'll grab dinner/drinks locally afterwards (Meredith or Moultonboro), if there is sufficient interest.  Typical fall/winter hiking gear should be appropriate:  convertible hiking pants, good sturdy hiking boots with thick socks and layered, non-cotton clothing.  The summit, ridge and exposed ledges may be particularly cold this time of year.  You may also want to pack traction (e.g. microspikes), if the weather suggests it, although the trails are not very steep.  What to bring along:  Bring along lunch, snacks, plenty of water and anything else you may require for a day hike.

Take Rt. 93 to Exit 23 (New Hampton/Meredith).  Follow NH-104 E for 8.3 miles.  Turn left onto US-3 N and follow through Meredith for 1.0 mile.  Turn right onto NH-25 E and follow for 10.2 miles.  Turn right onto NH-109 S and follow for 2.2 miles.  Continue onto NH-171 E for 0.5 miles.  Turn left onto Ossipee Park Rd and continue to the hiker parking area at about 1.3 miles.  From the Exit 23, it is approximately 23.6 miles (37 minutes).