Mt. Washington via Ammonoosuc ravine

 Though there was originally an iffy weather report, six GO members (Chris, Christian, Bill, Rick, Mike, and Carlos) decided to venture up the Ammonoosuc ravine trail for a great day of hiking.  This trail starts out fairly moderately, and then gets steep as it approaches the Lakes of the Clouds Hut, after crossing over some challenging ledges.  We stopped in front of the hut to have lunch, as it turned out to be a wonderful sunny day.  From there we headed up to the summit of Mt. Washington, where we watched some rather ominous clouds wander over the ridge.  Fortunately no rain came with them, and the sun would return occasionally to warm us on the way to the top.  The summit of Mt. Washington is always somewhat disappointing on account of the crowds and touristy feel of the buildings up there.  Nevertheless, it was quite an accomplishment for all, and a peak bagging first for several of the participants.  Bill at this point opted to take the cog railway back down as he was not feeling well.

The rest of us made it back down the Jewell Trail, which offered great views for a good part of the hike.  We met up with Bill at the train station down below, and were pleased to see that he was feeling well.  We were also quite pleased that he had brought his car over, and we all piled into it for the last mile to our cars.  Afterwards we had a great meal at Fabyan's, but not before having another small adventure.  As we got to Rt. 302, the NH State Police was stopping cars, as they were looking for a criminal of some sort who was last seen wearing a tie dye t-shirt.  As luck would have it, Chris had just changed to a dry shirt:  a tie dyed one.  He was questioned.  His license plate number was checked, and was then told that he did not really fit the description of the suspect.  But we knew that, right?!  

 We will be taking the Ammonoosuc ravine trail up from the cog railway depot and via the Lake of the Clouds Hut.  The ascent is generally a moderate one, except for the few hundred feet right below the AMC hut where it gets very steep.  From there to the summit is also fairly steep, with the added pleasure that now we will be above treeline and very exposed.  The total ascent from the base up to the summit is 4,100 feet, so this is quite a hike up to the top of New England's highest peak.  We will descend via the Jewell Trail back down to the cog railway depot.  At some point below the summit, the trail will take us under the cog railway tracks, which by are now are generally free of coal residue (the cog railway engines are now diesel powered).  The total mileage is 9.6 miles, and a good chunk of this hike will be above treeline in fairly exposed terrain where bad weather is always likely to kick-in unannounced.  So come prepared.  Wear no cotton, and bring a good weatherproof parka and pants to carry in your pack in case you need them.  Also bring plenty of water.  There will be water at the AMC hut and at the summit house, but in between you'll have to drink what you carry.  Also bring plenty of snacks and a good lunch.  Rain and/or threat of thunderstorms will cancel this event.