Thinking of getting in shape for a hike in the Whites, here is your opportunity to participate in a series of 4 hikes that will get progressively get harder!

Although Mount Cardigan’s elevation is only 3,155 feet, it gives hikers a feeling they are much higher due to the huge areas of bare granite rock with some alpine growth. The summit has a fire tower and amazing 360° views!

This is a loop hike starting from Cardigan Lodge. We will take the Manning Trail to the summit of Firescrew [3064’] and then the Mowglis Trail to the summit of Mount Cardigan [3155’].  We will return on the Clark and Clark-Holt Cut Off Trails back to Cardigan Lodge. Above treeline hiking on Firescrew and Cardigan, views in all directions!

Bring water and lunch; along with what you normally carry for a day hike.

Round trip distance: 6.0 miles

Elevation gain: 1,920 feet 

Join us for a hike in the great outdoors for some fresh air and some much needed camaraderie!  

Après Hiking Dinner:  Everyone is welcome to join us back at our house in Waterville Valley to relax on our deck with views of the Sandwich Mountain/Mad River [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 [with Wi Fi] near Waterville Valley, NH for Friday and/or Saturday night. The cost is $25 for Friday night and $35 for Saturday that includes dinner [$60 for the weekend]. Coffee/bagels each morning and linen/blankets/towels are provided. Space is limited so email ASAP to reserve a bunk!

It's not the easiest place to find so if you prefer, meet us at off Exit 23 [Meredith/New Hampton] exit for 8:45AM at the Park 'N Ride [right of the exit on Route 104 East] to carpool. We'll be driving a blue Toyota Tacoma truck. Please let us know you’ll meet us there otherwise we will not stop.

GPS: Or most GPS systems will get you there if you type in 774 Shem Valley Road, Alexandria, NH. Or perhaps get driving directions from the web yourself.  

And as a last resort directions to Cardigan Lodge from I-93:

Take exit 23 for NH-104/NH-132 toward Meredith/New Hampton 
Turn left onto NH-104 W/NH-132 S Continue to follow NH-132 S for 0.9 miles 
Continue onto NH-104 W for 4.7 miles

Slight right onto Pleasant St for 0.2 miles 
Continue onto Lake St for 0.4 miles 
Turn left onto Bristol Hill Rd for 1.1 miles 
Slight left onto Plumer Hill Rd for .08 miles 
Turn left to stay on Plumer Hill Rd for .04 miles 
Take the 1st right onto Town Pound Rd for 0.7 miles 
Continue onto Washburn Rd for 0.2 miles 
Slight right onto Mt Cardigan Rd for 3.6 miles 
Continue onto Shem Valley Rd for 1.4 miles 
Cardigan lodge will be @ the end of the road