Loop hike with both peaks in the Castle in the Clouds property with grand Lake Winnipesaukee views! We will start on the Mt. Roberts Trail across open ledges and in 2.5 miles reach the summit of Mt. Roberts [2582']. Since the trail is not used that much in winter, we'll probably be breaking trail with our snowshoes. We'll then continue clockwise on the High Ridge Trail [snowmobile corridor] to the communication dotted summit of Faraway Mountain [2782'] using an access road. Returning to the High Ridge Trail we'll hook up with the Faraway Mountain and Cold Spring Trail for our descent. 

We start as a group, hike as a group, and finish as a group. Our pace will be that of the slowest hiker. If you are faster than the group and don't want to stay with us or want to head off on your own, this isn't the trip for you. Likewise, this trip isn't for you if you are slower than the group and expect us to constantly wait for you or want us to go on without you.

Expect winter conditions and remember that it will be getting darker earlier now so we may finish in the dark. All participants must be members of GayOutdoors and RSVP via our website. This allows us to keep track of and communicate with each person who signs up and participates in our events.

on this hike provided they are well-behaved, you bring a leash in case you need to use it, you clean up after them, and you have a copy of their most recent rabies vaccination.

Dogs are permitted

We will hike about 6.2 miles and climb about =1,500 feet ~ for perspective the top floor of the Empire State Building is about 1,250 feet. It should take an average hiker about 5 hours to complete this trip ~ this estimate is adjusted to allow for slower travel during winter because of heavier packs, includes time for changing clothing to regulate temperature and putting on/taking off snowshoes or microspikes along the way.

This trip is considered MODERATE because of the pace, distance, and elevation gain. I did all my research for this trip using the Lakes Region Conservation Trust  "Hiking Trails Guidebook", a trail map, and the Internet. You should become self-reliant by becoming familiar with the route, terrain, and potential hazards since you are ultimately responsible for your own safety.

Click below for more information about each peak:

• Mt. Roberts [from peakbagger.com]
• Faraway Mountain [from peakbagger.com]

We could alter our plans because of fatigue, weather, and/or other conditions and there is no guarantee that we will complete the entire event as described here [e.g. we might not reach the summits]. While the objective of this event is to enjoy ourselves ~ your safety and the safety of the group is the most important thing. If you underestimate the demands of the trip' overestimate your experience, knowledge, skills or abilities; or come unprepared you may put yourself or others at risk ~ consider this before you decide to participate.

Hiking safely is about being prepared to respond to an emergency situation or being able to spend a night in the woods if you have to. Bring your own stuff and know how to use it. Click here are refer to our winter hiking list that describes the minimum required items to participate in this event. Click here for the current weather conditions.

After The Hike:  Everyone is welcome back at our house in Waterville Valley to socialize around the fireplace and enjoy a home cooked meal with dessert! It's BYOB and it costs $5 per person.   

Lodging Option: We have 8 bunks available at our house near Waterville Valley, NH for Saturday night for $20 per night. Coffee/bagels each morning and linen/blankets/towels are provided. We have limited space in the fridge to store your beverages/food so it's best to bring a small cooler. Space is limited so email us ASAP to reserve a bunk! 

We will be meeting at the upper end of Ossipee Park Road, which is also the access road to the Water Bottling Plant. According to Google Maps this spot is 122 miles from Boston and it should take about 2 hours and 20 minutes to drive there.

Click Here for directions. Once you open Google Maps simply change the generic starting point [Boston, MA] to your own starting point to get customized directions. We will be driving a blue Toyota FJ Cruiser.

Carpooling is encouraged so you are responsible for coordinating your own rides. Use the comments section below to communicate with other members who may also be looking to share a ride.