Franconia Ridge via Falling Waters and Old Bridal Path.

LEADER REPORT (NO JOKE)

A day of challenges and adventures. A great group of hikers with various experience levels took on the challenge of weather and the Franconia Range. After battling the parking challenges, the group ascended via the Falling Waters Trail. This steep and rocky approach provides excellent access to many waterfalls cascading along the path. This portion remained dry of participation and limited wind. The group cleared tree line and bundled up for the windy and damp crossing to Mount Lincoln and eventually Mount Lafayette. Although we expected the weather to be worse it was a mild obstacle and learning experience for many. The decent down the Old Bridal Path was no surprise, the wind had diminished some and the rain/drizzle continued. AMC Greenleaf Hut is scheduled to open June 3rd but staff allowed hikers a respite from the weather to recover from the elements. After some fluid transfer, clothing changes and some very chocolate brownies the group continued down to the parking area. This trip was clearly a strenuous event and lessons were learned by everyone. Overall, this was an awesome trip with a diverse group of incredible hikers. Very much looking forward to more adventures on any trails with all participants. A huge appreciation to GO Member BOBCAT who opened his home in Sugar Hill to hikers for food, hot showers, and rest before the long journey back to civilization. A wonderful gift to tired travelers. From everyone, Thank you BOBCAT!

P.S. Know your gear, your experience level, energy level and limits. Always plan safe and stay safe.

PARTICIPENT REORT (unknown author)

As usual, another GO hike event being well-organized and fun with all participants being friendly.

The weather was grey, overcast w.drizzling rain showers overhead all day. The ridge was windy, wet and cold.....but it could have been worse!

J.T. was a great leader - getting us thru all the environmental challenges, as they presented themselves - both the external and the internal ones! Valued and admired his leadership and hiking abilties, skills and exprerience.

As the sun set, we closed our 9-hour hiking day.

Each of us could claim our Victory over Franconia!

Yes, a very Memorial memory.

Little Haystack, Lincoln, and Lafayette via Falling Waters: These three peaks comprise a beautiful stretch of the Franconia Ridge.

***Elevation (highest point) 5250ft – Mt Lafayette

**Distance to highest point 5.4 miles

*Total trip distance 8.1 miles.

This trip is considered MODERATE to STRENUOUS. Steep grade (up), distance, pace, exposure, and weather are all definite factors. A major portion of this trip is exposed above tree line, there is no shelter or alternate routes.

Group will meet at the Lafayette Campground at 10 am and depart by 10:20.

Trail Details and Distances:

            After crossing the highway, the ascent begins up the Falling Waters Trail. This steep, rough, and rocky trail will have several water crossings. Despite the challenging obstacles this path provides great waterfalls and views throughout the Franconia Notch. The trail will break tree line just before the summit of Little Haystack at 2.8 miles. Heading north following the Franconia Ridge will be fully exposed to weather. Passing over several rock ledge outcroppings the ridge trail reaches Mt Lincoln at 3.5 miles and moves on to Mt Lafayette at 4.3 miles. Spectacular views in all directions. Traveling down the Greenleaf Trail to the AMC Greenleaf Hut at 5.4 miles and then following the Old Bridal Path back to the parking area at 8.1 miles.  

PREPARATION/WHAT TO BRING: White Mountains can and do have unpredictable and extreme weather changes year-round. Do not be fooled by lower elevation weather. Weather in higher elevations can be very tricky and unstable. A major portion of this trip is exposed above tree line, there is no shelter or alternate routes.

It is recommended that hikers:

**Have extra dry clothing, sun, and wind protection.

**Always have water and food. AMC Greenleaf Hut may be in service and a

    “possible” water source.

**Bug repellent is recommended. Remember the one thing worse than annoying

    bugs, people complaining about annoying bugs.

**Helpful hint: Avoid perfumed scents in soaps, bodywash and shampoo. These

    will attract bugs.

**It is highly recommended to bring a BLISTER KIT (DIY kits online). DO NOT

    wear brand-new footwear, foot first aid most likely will be necessary.

**If you need suggestions on what to bring, PLEASE ASK!!

For this trip it is important to bring along flexibility, patience, and a sense of humor.

Covid – The AMC Greenleaf Hut may be in full service; it is a popular destination spot for hikers.

**Please bring a mask for the use when in close proximity to others.

**Respect people’s space

**There are a variety of mask styles to match the variety of covid opinions. Let’s be safe

    and respect others. We are not the only people on the trail.

Group Size: It is not fun leaving folks out of trips.

*PLEASE cancel so others may join. If you are on the waiting list, please contact me the

days prior to the trip, most likely there is room and if needed this trail will allow us to break the group into smaller groups.  

*Decreasing the impact to the environment is always a priority! Above tree line it is vital to stick to the paths and rocks. Do not stray.

*Please plan to “carry in and carry out” all items. It may also be possible to collect other hikers’ debris along the way.

Weather: The weather for this trip will be monitored the week prior. If it is a concern any updates or cancellation information will be posted by the Friday prior by 6pm. If it is a cancellation, it will include a rescheduled date so participants can watch for that opportunity.

For weather details;

***Mt Washington Observatory  www.mountwashington.org

***National Weather Service – NOAA www.weather.gov

***Weather www.weather.com

Safety is a priority! Any time a hiker is injured or lost a HUGE team of volunteers is dispatched to aid in the search and rescue efforts.

**No one wants to be injured or put other in harm’s way.

**Always be prepared. Know your limits.

**Any questions feel free to contact me.

After trip social: Social gathering is possible and welcome. There are several food and beverage options. Pizza and tail gate gathering could be arranged if folks wish to do so.

Resources used to plan this trip:

*AMC White Mountain Guide, 30th addition.

*Alltrails.com

*Mount Washington Observatory www.mountwashington.org

*US Forest Service www.usfs.gov

*NH Fish and Game www.wildlife.state.nh.us

*NH State Parks www.nhstateparks.org

**Group will meet at the Lafayette Campground 10 am and depart by 10:20.