Pinkham Notch Loop Hike

Rich and I met up late afternoon of the 25th at Joe Dodge Lodge to enjoy a scrumptious Christmas dinner in the main building.  The lodge was abuzz – mostly with young families – but it made for a nice evening.  We chatted up a handful of families who originate from Israel (and used to live on a Kibbutz) and Providence, RI as well as the dedicated lodge employee who moved to Mt. Washington full time after spending years in Queens, NY.  We retired back to the lodge for a friendly game of scrabble by the fire before crashing for the night.  (Yes, we kept score and we’re not telling who won!!)

Saturday morning we got up around 6:30am… showered… had breakfast and mapped out the day.  The Imp Trail Loop, up to North Carter Mountain and back down.  The day could not have been better… weather wise it was more an early November day for Maine than the end of December!!  Conditions were near perfect, a modestly muddy trail, very minor bits of ice (no micro spikes needed) and lots of running streams. 

We made our start into a “dusky” forest; the sun had risen but was well behind the mountain.  By the time we reached Imp Face at 3,165 feet – the Presidential Range was illuminated by the sun and spectacular – not a cloud in the sky.  We paused to take in the view and warm up in the morning sun.  To the left we could peer down into the ravine and catch a glimpse of a roaring water fall – it seemed recent rains had fed the small streams and rivers.

Back into the tree line and cool temps… we crossed many a small stream and made our way to the trail junction by 11am.  A short break and up the trail to North Carter.  This trail was stunning… it narrowed as we made our way up and was dense with evergreens – a real treasure.  At 4,530 feet the temperatures were undeniably cooler with a brisk wind.  Out came the winter gloves and hand warmers.  We were treated to an expansive view of the eastern edge of New Hampshire into Maine – a cascade of evergreen and dormant deciduous trees and rolling peaks as far as the eyes could see.  A short break, snack, and off we went to begin the descent. 

As the clocked ticked into mid-afternoon the sun splashed down on us most of the descent - a real gift of nature.  Rich and I hiked up and down mostly in light layers with the exception of our short stay at the summit.  We emerged around 3:30pm.  For a 9.3 mile day we were treated to great views, great temps and a great workout.  Sadly, my camera settings didn’t work well for the early part of the hike – too dark.

Saturday evening we dined at the lodge.  We chatted up a gentleman who spent Christmas night at Carter Notch Hut - in good company - they were five. 

We retired to the library and shared in spirits and a scrabble re-match by the fire (again, not telling who won!!).  On Sunday we awoke to snow, sleet and freezing rain – winter finally arrived.  We had breakfast and departed.  Thanks to Rich for hosting a great get-a-way.  Until the next adventure!!

Join us for Christmas weekend at AMC's Joe Dodge Lodge in Pinkham Notch, NH for a GO get-together and a Saturday hike.   A four bunk room has been reserved at Joe Dodge for Friday and Saturday nights for anyone who wants to stay at the lodge with the group.    You can also make your own arrangements or just join us for the hike on Saturday.  The plan is to arrive on Friday, check in, happy hour and home-cooked dinner, buffet style starting at 6 PM.  The AMC usually has an activity or speaker scheduled after dinner. 

Due to unseasonably mild conditions and rain we will hike, not snowshoe, either from the Visitor's Center or from a trailhead on Route 16 depending on the planned hike.  Day hikers can meet us in the lobby of the Visitor's Center shortly before 8 AM. Options are Tuckerman's Ravine to Raymond Path to Old Jackson Road (wild and untraveled), Great Gulf or Imp Loop (6.3 miles with great views).  We will collaborate on an exact route before the hike.   Please plan for a strenuous, 6-8 hour hike and a prompt departure in the morning.

Gear/Trip Prep: All participants must be prepared for winter conditions - insulated winter boots, wool or synthetic base layer, mid-weight insulation layer and a windproof / waterproof winter parka (no cotton clothing).    The rest - hats / facemask, winter gloves, wool socks, extra socks, lunch, snacks, headlamp, straps to attach gear to pack, 2-3 liters of water, etc.   Bring your micro spikes, large pack to carry gear and extra layers.

For AMC members, the rate for 2 nights and 2 breakfasts / 2 dinners is $148, slightly higher for non-members.  

There will be a festive Christmas dinner buffet scheduled for 6 PM on Saturday.

Please contact me for reservation details if you would like to join us in the bunk.  Otherwise, just sign up and meet us on Saturday!

More info on AMC, Joe Dodge and trip planning can be found at http://www.outdoors.org.