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| Mount Washington State Park |
Pinkham Notch is considered the heart of the Whites with access to some of the most popular and stunning sections of the White Mountains. These include the unique 29,000 acres Presidential Range and the 60.3-acre parcel of land at Mount Washington State Park. The route is considered difficult. However, arriving in the area and would rather not camp, the Appalachian Mountain Club’s Joe Dodge Lodge would readily welcome you. The lodge offers accommodations, food, and plenty of activities including events, hikes, and family adventure programs. The lodge is also the base camp for some of best the outdoor adventures in the region.
The lodge’s Pinkham Notch Visitor Center is the starting
route up Mount Washington. Here you can park your vehicle or arrive by an
Appalachian Mountain Club-run shuttle.
The center takes reservations and stops at several trailheads leading to the
Appalachian Trail and the club’s alpine huts. Also, be reminded that the weather on Mount Washington can be quite different. It
changes so quickly. That being so, pack appropriately and be sure to check the
weather forecast before heading out.
Starting the ascend
Starting at the visitor center, climb the Tuckerman Ravine
Trail along the Cutler River. At 0.2 miles cross a bridge over the river, and there
is a clear view of Crystal Cascade Falls. From the falls, the trail climbs up
the ravine. After passing several trails, one of which, the Huntington Ravine
Trail, can also be used to reach the summit, but it is a much more challenging
route. Instead, continue up the Tuckerman Ravine towards Hermit Lake. Take a
right onto Lion’s Head Trail just before the lake to ascend the Lion’s Head, a
rocky outcrop on the northern ridgeline. The climb here is quite steep, about
0.75 miles. However, you will get a short respite as you cross the Alpine
Garden Trail. The route soon ascends to rejoin the Tuckerman Ravine Trail. Take
a right and follow the trail toward the peak.
Arriving at the summit, navigate to the top via sidewalks
and parking areas. A signed cairn is located behind the Tip Top House; a historic
former hotel built in 1853 that has been turned into a museum. The summit is so
large you can spend some time enjoying the views and summit structures like
the Mount
Washington Observatory. Here, do not forget to top off your water bottles and
use the facilities while you are there. When you are ready to head home, follow
the Tuckerman Ravine Trail all the way down.
Dogs: Leashed
