Kick off 2023 with a New Year’s Eve 10 mile winter hike up to the summits of the two Kinsmen...North and South (4293' and 4358', respectively).  We will ascend by way of the Mount Kinsman Trail, which approaches the ridge from the west.  The ridge is only 3.7 miles from this trailhead.  Both of these peaks offer spectacular views.  From North Kinsman there is a ledge which looks northward along the ridge as well eastward over Lonesome Lake and over to the Franconia Ridge.  The more open South Kinsman provides nice views in all directions.  For the most part the trail is less steep than the ascent from the east, but there will be a few short steep stretches of trail.  Elevation gain is about 3900-ft.  This hike will take about 8 to 8.5 hours.  We will return the way we came.

What to wear/bring:  MicroSpikes will be necessary. We’ll let you know a few days prior if snowshoes will be needed. Don't forget to wear warm layers [NO COTTON OR BLUE JEANS], gloves, warm hat, rain/wind shell, goggles, face protection, headlamp/flashlight, water, lunch, snacks, and anything else you would bring for a cold weather hike. We are taking hand warmers for our gloves. Winter insulated boots to keep your feet and toes warm recommended.

We’ll have lunch on the summit. Carry at least 2 liters of water [use hot water and place your water bottle in a thick wool sock, insulated thermos or water bottle parka], lunch and snacks. A small thermos of hot liquids is a welcome treat at the summit!

Après Hiking Dinner:  Everyone is welcome to join us back at our house in Waterville Valley to relax beside our fireplace with views of the Sandwich Mountain/Mad River [BYOB and bring snacks] followed by one of Jon's delicious dinners. We ask $10 per person to help pay for our food costs. Showers are available so bring a change of clothing to make your visit with us more comfortable. Bring some Champagne and hopefully we can stay awake long enough for a midnight toast!!!   

Lodging Option: Bunk beds are available at our house [with Wi Fi] near Waterville Valley, NH for Friday and/or Saturday night. The cost is $25 for Friday night and $35 for Saturday that includes dinner [$60 for the weekend]. Coffee/bagels each morning and linen/blankets/towels are provided. Space is limited so email ASAP to reserve a bunk!

From 112 west of Kinsman Notch, take NH 116 and drive 6.4 miles to the new trailhead parking area for the Mount Kinsman Trail, on the right. Just ahead on the left can be seen a tennis court, and across the road is the Tamrack Tennis Camp.

Or from the village of Franconia, drive 4.6 miles south on NH 116. Look for the Tamarack Tennis Camp; the trailhead is 200 feet farther on the left. 

We'll be driving a blue Tacoma Truck.