Sunday, December 8, 2024
Mt Lafayette,
New Hampshire, White Mountains,
NH
Join us for a Sunday hike up to the Franconia Ridge and tag two of the most iconic summits in the NH48, Lincoln (5089ft) and Lafayette (5250ft). Total distance is just under 9 miles, with approx 4000 feet of elevation gain. We plan to hike at 2+mph, slowing it down on the climbs, for an overall hiking time including breaks of 6.5-7.5 hours. Our ascent will likely include significant stretches of icy trail, and Franconia Ridge is above treeline with unforgiving exposure to whatever weather the White Mountains choose to bring us in early December. You should be an experienced winter hiker comfortable with such terrain and conditions, and come prepared with appropriate 4-season gear including microspikes, technical crampons, and layers, and with fitness built up by recent hikes of similar distances and elevation gains within the past 3 months. Depending on conditions, snowshoes may also be required. We will be close to the winter solstice so daylight hours will be scarce, and working headlamps are required in case the hike takes longer than expected. See link to AMC's recommended 4-season gear list below. The planned trip destination, activity and/or meeting place and time may be modified to address unforeseen challenges such as adverse weather, unacceptable trail conditions or excessive crowding. In that event, participants may elect to join in that activity or opt out.
Free
