The Carters (North, Middle, South)

This was an excellent hike over the Carters on a warm fall day. The foliage was still present, but slightly past peak. We had excellent views from The Imp, and along different overlooks on the Carter-Moriah Ridge. The pristine dry river wilderness to the East was just past peak foliage, as did the snow capped northern Presidentials to the West. There were a few clounds which passed by, and we could catch good views between them. This is the first hike of the year where I used my gloves, winter hat, and north face outter shell at the summit, a sign that winter is on its way. The rain held off for us, except a very brief drizzle a time or two. After covering the three Carters, we descended along the Carter Notch trail to 19 mile Brook, and followed Rt 16 back to the cars.

This was an excellent hike with myself and two other strong hikers! I look forwards to the Bonds traverse next week as I get very close to finishing my 4000+ footers!

Gear/Conditions/hiker level; This is going to be a fall hike, above timberline and it is definitely a strenuous hike. Please be prepared for potential but unlikely full winter conditions. Please bring a warm hat, jacket, and gloves, headlight may be helpful but not required. Right now it does not look like microspikes will be needed, but I will advise as the time gets closer as to the conditions at higher elevations.

The hike itself; Just over 13 miles long it follows a section of the AT. Our ascent will bring us up the North End of the Imp Trail over the Imp Face (with excellent views), and on to the North Carter Trail up to the ridge. We will then follow the ridge south along the Carter-Moriah Trail over Middle Carter Mountain (4610 Ft. elevation) to South Carter Mountain (4430 Ft. Elevation).  We will then backtrack north along the Carter-Moriah Trail to North Carter Mountail (4530 Ft. elevation). This will give us 3 seperate 4000 + footer peaks on our lists -)

Our descent will bring us back down the North Carter trail to the Southern segment of the Imp Trail loop to the trailhead at Rt.16 (which is going to be .3 miles South of the cars on Rt 16). We will walk north on Rt. 16 to the cars for the 3/10 mile. I am anticipating this taking roughly 8-9 hours depending upon pace, which will get us back well before dark.

We can go out to eat in Gorham afterwards for anyone who wishes to join.