A climb up two 4,000 footers off the Kanc with one of the best butt-slide descents in the Whites!

The majority of the hike will be in and on the same trail [3.5 miles] before we get to the Hancock Loop Trail. Hopefully the North Folk crossings will have good snow bridges. We will be going clockwise, going up to Mt. Hancock [4420'] then over to South Hancock [4319']. The climb up is steep with difficult snowshoeing, requiring vigorous step-kicking. Snow piles deep on the ridge, and the Ridge Link may be very hard to follow. The descent is butt-slide heaven!

We will hike about 9.8 miles and climb about 2,300 feet. It should take an average hiker about 7.5 hours to complete this trip ~ this estimate is adjusted to allow for slower travel during winter because of heavier packs, includes time for changing clothing to regulate temperature and putting on/taking off snowshoes or microspikes along the way.

What to wear/bring:  MicroSpikes are required but we may need snowshoes if there has been a recent snowstorm. We may not need snowshoes at the start so you should be prepared to strap your snowshoes onto your pack using bungee cords. Wear warm clothing suitable for the exposed ledge and summit(s)...no cotton or blue jeans.  You should also have insulated winter boots suitable for the season.  Additionally, bring a headlamp/flashlight.  Bring along plenty of water (at least 2 liters), lunch, snacks and anything else you may require for a day hike.

Afterwards:  Everyone is welcome to join us back at our house in Waterville Valley to relax by our fireplace [BYOB and bring snacks] followed by one of Jon's delicious dinners. We ask $10 per person to help pay for our food costs. Showers are available so bring a change of clothing to make your visit with us more comfortable.

Lodging Option: Bunk beds are available at our house near Waterville Valley, NH for Friday and Saturday night for $25 per night. Coffee/bagels each morning and linen/blankets/towels are provided. We have limited space in the fridge to store your beverages/food so it's best to bring a small cooler. Space is limited so email me ASAP to reserve a bunk!

The Hancock Overlook parking area is on New Hampshire Route 112 [Kancamagus Highway] about 10.5 miles east of Interstate 93, exit 32. It's on the south side of the road, immediately east of the hairpin right turn where traffic is supposed to slow down to 20 miles per hour, and a sign warns of parking 600 feet. We will be driving a blue Toyota Tacoma truck. .