Winter has arrived early in the White Mountains and there is no better time to get a jump start on breaking in your snow shoes!  The holiday party circuit is well underway so why not burn some pre-social soiree calories by climbing a mountain.  We’ll be hiking up Mt. Moosilauke via the Glencliff Trail in Glencliff, NH.

I’ve been up Mt. Moosilauke a handful of times and the views  on a blue bird day are magnificent.   On this trip the landscape promises pristine snow - and with a little luck - bright blue skies.  Moosilauke in Summer or Winter?  Witner wins – but come check it out for yourself.

The Glencliff trail is part of the AT and runs 3 miles up to South Peak to intersect with the Carriage Road.  From there we ascend the final .9 miles to summit Moosilauke.  The ascent along this trail has been described as “scenic and charming with enough challenging terrain to keep the blood pumping.” 

If you are new to winter hiking, this would be the hike for you.  The trail is pleasant, the grade is moderate.  There are no major water crossings or rock scrambling – it truly is a stunning walk in the forest with your two feet firmly planted on the snow.

The Plan:

On Saturday we’ll meet at the trail head off of High Street in Glencliff, NH.  Along the way we’ll take water and snack breaks – make time for lunch – and of course – take in the views.  Round trip is 8 miles including a short spur trail to South Peak.  While the grades are moderate, it’s a full day of hiking.  Be prepared which will include snow shoes.  Total elevation gain is 3,300’.  Bring microspikes - sometimes the summit is best traversed with microspikes.  After the hike if there is sufficient interest we can grab a bit to eat at a local dining spot.

What to bring: 

Food:  Bring snacks and a lunch for the hike.  A little extra is always good.  A thermos with hot apple cider or coffee is a very sweet treat.

Water:  Bring two liters.  Bottles should be in insulated – no hydration devices.

Clothing:  No Cotton!  Temps will vary from start to summit and summits are often windy.  Moosilauke can be finicky.  Bring layers, gloves, hat, face mask, hand warmers, micro-spikes, and other gear you may want for the hike.  Your pack should be big enough to carry excess gear as you warm up.   Inclement weather will cancel the trip. As always, be prepared for unexpected changes in weather conditions. 

Directions:  Depending on where you are coming from you can access the trail head from Routes 91 or 93.  Directions from 93:  Route 93 North/South to Plymouth (exit 26).  Follow Route 25 west through Rumney into Wentworth.  In Wentworth, route 25 is also route 118.  Follow 25/118 through Warren and continue straight on 25 when 118 splits to the right.  In Glencliff turn right onto High Street (formerly Sanitorium Road).  The trail head is 1.2 miles from the turn onto High Street.  I will be driving a dark gray Honda CRV.