Sunset and Fireworks Night Hike

Late evening we all met at the Mount Major Parking Lot along with many other people with the same goal in mind to watch the fireworks.  Within our group we had four GO members, three of their kids, and three dogs.

Our hike up was casual and within dense humidity.  The trail was quite wet with many small intermittent streams and puddles.  We were pleased that the higher ledges were much more dry affording safer footing.  Along the way up we paused at a few scenic spots and socialized.

We made it to the summit about ten minutes before sunset.  There we just kicked back, ate our snacks, watched the scenery and the sun set, and watched many other people slowly fill the summit.  In all there were about seventy to eighty other people with us waiting for the fireworks.  As time came closer for the fireworks show we saw hundreds and hundreds of boats and yachts move slowly into Alton Bay.  There were also many amatuer fireworks along the shorelines and far away on the horizon to be seen.

After the show we hiked very slow down the same trail we came up and eventually made it to the parking lot just before 11pm.  Surprisingly most of the other summit visitors used the other trails to get down.

It is a wonderful feeling to see so many people enjoy this great holiday.  Mount Major gave us the ultimate advantage to see the Lakes Region light up with celebration and excitement.  Thank you everyone who came to enjoy this adventure with me.

This will be a total 3.5 mile hike with an elevation gain of 1130 feet.  The hike down will be in the dark.

The town of Alton has an average sized fireworks display each year for the 4th of July.  Mount Major stands along the side of Alton Bay with spectacular views of Lake Winnipesaukee and a clear view of the fireworks location.  We will not be alone.  Last year there were over 80 other people on the summit watching the fireworks.

We will follow the main, blue-blazed trail from the parking area to the summit.  The trail is relatively flat at first, than it ascends up a rocky trail with several ledges.  We will use the same trail down after dark so that everyone will be aware of its hazards.  The hike up will be a casual pace and we should make it to the top by sunset.  Once we are on the summit we will kick back and relax until the fireworks start at 9:15.  Bring what you want: a meal to cook, a good book, blanket, or your camera.

Sturdy footwear is a must along with a good working flashlight capable of several hours of operation.  Please be prepared for cool temperatures.

Postponement/Cancellation: This hike is dependent on the Alton Bay fireworks show.  If the town postpones the show this hike may be changed to the new date.  If the town cancels the show the hike will be canceled.