Mt Jefferson via Caps Ridge Trail

“Two roads diverged in a wood and I - I took the one less traveled by, and that has made all the difference.” Robert Frost

Mt Jefferson: Via the Caps Ridge Trail.

• Elevation (highest point) 5716ft – Mt Moosilauke
• Distance to highest point 2.5 miles
• Total trip distance 5 miles.

This trip is considered MODERATE to STRENUOUS. Steep grade (down), false summits, pace, exposure, and weather are all factors. Climbers should be comfortable with steady, consistent pace and possible winter conditions.

Over ¾ of this trip is exposed above tree line, there is no shelter or alternate routes. If weather is inclement this hike WILL BE CANCELLED.

Group will meet at the Caps Ridge Trail parking lot at 9am and depart by 9:20. Trail head parking is located on the Jefferson Notch Road.

Trail Details and Distances:

            Don’t be fooled, this is an amazing hike with many hidden challenges. Distance is 2.5 miles from parking to the summit. Travelers will break tree line after approximately 20 mins and remained exposed to the summit. This trail has amazing views from several “false summits”. Some steep, rocky ledges to cross. Not ideal for those who do not like heights. Because of so much of the trail is exposed with NO shelter this hike will be cancelled if weather is inclement.   

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.

It is recommended that hikers:

• Have extra dry clothing, sun, and wind protection.
• Minimum of 2 liters of water
• It is highly recommended to bring a BLISTER KIT (DIY kits online). DO NOT wear brand-new footwear, foot first aid 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 – This Trail is very popular destination 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;

• (NH) Mt Washington Observatory  www.mountwashington.org
• (VT) Fairbanks Museum   www.fairbanksmuseum.org/eye-on-the-sky
• National Weather Service – NOAA www.weather.gov
• (GA) 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.

Resources used to plan this trip:

• AMC White Mountain Guide, 30th addition.
• Alltrails.com  
• 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 Caps Ridge Trail parking lot at 9am and depart by 9:20. Trail head parking is located on the Jefferson Notch Road.