Join me, Saturday June 30th, for a loop hike up to North and South Hancock.  I never made it up the Hancock’s this winter – it was on my list as were many summits.  Summer is here and I bagged any hiking this past weekend in favor of working in the gardens.  I’m feeling the need for some trail time and a quality outdoor experience.

We will meet at 9am at the trail head off of route 112 also known as the Kancamagus Highway.  This trail is quite beautiful and I anticipate it being even more so on a clear blue sky day.  The trail starts out flat and you pretty much walk a straight line 1.8 miles to the trail junction of Hancock Notch and Cedar Brook Trails.  We’ll bear down Cedar brook for another .7 miles where we connect with the Hancock Loop Trail.  It is here, the loop trail, where the ascent begins!  We begin the initial mile slowly ascending but miles 1.1 to 1.7 are ball busters – it’s a steep climb, unrelenting and incredibly rewarding.  We’ll reach the peak of Hancock at 4,420’.  We’ll take a nice long break; chat, snack and/or lunch then make our way along 1.4 miles of beautiful ridge line.  The ridge is mostly in the trees but does pop out from time to time.  The last time I was up here I was messing with snow and some moderate post holing so I’ll be looking forward to solid ground.  We’ll tag South Hancock at 4,419’.  From this peak we’ll have views of Mt. Carrigain and the area I backpacked in just two weeks ago!  From this peak we begin our descent for a short .5 miles where we close the loop.  From here on out it’s a modest descent and mostly flat until we are back to the cars.  Overall this day clocks in at 9.8 miles.

Bring two liters of water, lunch and snacks.  While the weather is predicted to be warmer, it’s always good to have layers and a rain jacket just in case the weather turns.  If interested bring a towel and a change of clothes…. We’ll look for a sweet swimming hole along the Kanc for a refreshing and invigorating splash in the east branch of the Pemigewasset River.  I’ve been known to splash nekkid in those waters but I make no promises!  Afterwards if there is interest, we can grab a bite to eat.

From Route 93 North or South take exit 32, route 112/Kancamagus Highway and follow east until you reach the "Hairpin Turn".  Immediately after this turn is the trailhead.  I'll be driving a dark gray honda CRV.