The Twins/Galehead Hike

This hike was one of those peakbagger's delight hikes in which we bagged three 4,000 summits in one long day.

The plan for the day was to make a loop going over North and South Twin Mountain and then Galehead Mountain by starting out at the North Twin trailhead and spotting a car at the Gale River trailhead.

To get to the North Twin trailhead you have to take Haystack Rd. As we started out on the North Twin Trail we were along side of the Little River. We bypassed most of the crossings by staying to the left using a herd path. At the end of the herd path we crossed over it, it wasn't too tricky, because the water was low today.

The last mile of the approach to North Twin was fairly steep climb, but pretty standard for the White Mountains. Before we reached the summit of North Twin we reached the spectucular outcrop where we could see Mt. Hale, South Twin, Sugarloafs, the Presidentials and more. Near North Twin we took the side path to reach the summit and the excellent western ledge. We could see Mt. Garfield, Galehead [including the hut], and the Franconia Notch peaks.

From North Twin it was a little over a mile to the South Twin summit. South Twin was the real star of this hike. To say which peaks you can view from the summit, well...I would just say everyone of them! At least it seemed like you could see every peak in the White Mountains from there. For the most part we could see the Bonds, Franconias, Presidentials, and so many more that it was hard to identify them all. We timed our hike perfectly to get there for lunch at 1pm.

After an extended stay savoring the South Twin summit, we headed on the Twinway down towards our next destination, Galehead Mountain. This part of the Twinway is nice and steep. 

At the bottom of the Twinway we came to the Galehead Hut where we took a break. The Galehead Hut is the most remote hut of all the White Mountain huts. You can stay here in relative luxury for being in the wilderness. For almost $100 a night you'll get a couple of hot meals and a spot in one of their bunkrooms. For us it was just a good place to relax. From the Hut we could look back at North and South Twin. North Twin had the appearance of a gray-haired mountain because it has an abundance of dead, gray trees scattered around it.

After the Galehead Hut we jumped on to the Frost Trail to head up to Galehead Mountain. The Galehead Hut is at an elevation of 3780' so it is a very short climb to the Galehead summit. The summit is wooded with no views but right before it there is an outlook that gives you a great view of the Twin Brook valley. We were back at the Galehead Hut in about 30 minutes and quickly began the 4.6 mile trek on the Gale River Trail back to the car. 

The total mileage of the entire loop we did today was 12 miles. It was quite a long day but enjoyable thanks to nearly perfect hiking weather! 

The twins are two lofty peaks that rise above the Pemigewasset Wilderness, offering spectacular views.

If you like a good challenge and beautiful views, then this hike is for you. The Twin Peaks are two of the highest peaks in the Twin Range, which is the loftiest ridge between the Presidentials and the Franconia's. On a clear day, you will experience outstanding views of the Pemigewasset Wilderness and surrounding mountains.

If you are peak bagging, this hike will gain you three summits on you NH4K list.

Totals:

Round Trip [all 2 peaks]: 12 miles

Book Time: 9 hr 41 min [If we move quickly enough, we should finish by 6PM]

Elevation Gain: 3932

Please Note That All Participants Will Be Screened:
This is considered a strenuous hike. There is one stream crossing that may be difficult in high water. There are steep sections and boulder scrambles. You will need to have previous experience hiking in higher elevations [we'll check your profile under events participated], your profile outdoor fitness level must at least indicate 'moderate to strenuous], and you should be able to hike at a moderate to fast pace. Anyone we are unsure of will be emailed for further questioning.

Excursion Details

This is a Traverse Hike requiring car spotting. We will meet at 8:00AM at the Gale River Trailhead to spot cars. After leaving some cars here, we will then drive to North Twin Trailhead to begin our hike.

Our hike will begin at the North Twin Trailhead.

We will bypass the first two stream crossings using a herd path but the third one can be difficult in high water. You may want to bring trekking poles and spare socks in case your boots get wet.

We will continue along the trail to the Summit of North Twin Mtn. [4761']. There is a beautiful outlook with magnificent views just before the true summit so be sure to bring your camera!

After bagging North Twin, we will continue on the North Twin Spur to the summit of South Twin which is a boulder and rocky peak [4902']. If the weather cooperates, we will enjoy lunch on the South Twin summit. If the weather is not suitable for a longer break here, we will eat at the Galehead Hut.

After summiting South Twin we will then head along the famous Twinway Trail to the Galehead Hut. This is a steep descent amongst large boulders and ledges. Good spot to have trekking poles!

You will be able to replenish your water at the hut, have another snack or eat lunch [if we did not eat on South Twin] and have a bathroom break.

Hikers that also need Galehead for their list can then head 0.5 miles up to the Summit of Galehead Mountain [4024'] and return back to the hut. Those not needing Galehead can relax and enjoy a longer break at the Hut. Once we have re-grouped, we will head down the Gale River Trail t our car spot location.

This last part of the hike is moderate and gentle. A great way to stretch out all those muscles you used on the ascent and descent to the hut.

Carpooling: Contact other members to carpool, share the conversation and travel expenses. Contact us if you want to carpool with us from Exit 28.

After The Hike: We'll have a BBQ back on my deck at my house in Waterville Valley. It's BYOB and about $5 per person for food costs. Bring a change of clothes. I have lots of towels and everyone can take showers to clean up.  

Lodging Option: I have 8 bunks available with linen for Friday and/or Saturday night at my house in Waterville Valley for $20. You can use the kitchen facilities and store beverages/food in the fridge. I serve coffee in the morning and a continental breakfast. Contact me to RSVP. SPACE IS LIMITED TO EIGHT GUYS.