Nash Stream Wilderness Backpack

I have received many questions, as has Stephen, about why there is not trip report.  I decided to post a brief trip report to so folks know, how sometimes, the best laid plans take a detour.

Stephen and I arrived Friday evening and spotted cars, made our way to the campsite and hit the sack sometime around 9:30pm.  We were to have an early start so best to get a good night’s rest.

Unfortunately, I (Rob L.) awoke feeling just a bit less than ideal.  Sometimes our bodies fail us, or perhaps, our bodies are telling us it’s in need of a time out.  Regardless, it became pretty evident pretty swiftly that I was in no shape to take to the trail.  I was deeply disappointed both in my inability to hike that morning but also for Stephen – we both had our hearts set on this immersive adventure - and it wasn’t going to be.

As hikers we take pride in our self-reliance, putting our feet forward - one in front of the other - to experience the most natural wonders of remote wilderness we can find while challenging ourselves physically and spiritually.  Nash Stream, I am certain, will rank among the best of them.

On this day – my feet weren’t going to take me far.  Stephen was not just a good friend – but a dynamic trip leader.  The details of the day aren’t that important and I am back on track.  What is important, however, is Stephen got the job done very much on my behalf.  A humbling experience for certain.

So gents…. stuff happens… we have to recognize our limitations, pitch in when we can and allow others to decide for you when things just aren’t working out the way you thought.  We pick ourselves up, brush off the dust and keep putting our feet forward, one in front of the other because the next adventure awaits.

Thanks for reading and we’ll see you on the trails soon mates!

Cheers,
Rob

Take a break from the White Mountains and join me for this 3-day backpack through the Nash Stream Forest, a parcel of roughly 40,000 acres.  The forest's remote location and many natural features, such as ponds, streams, mountain peaks and forest land, contribute to its natural beauty and ecological value.  It is home to an estimated 180 different species of mammals, birds, reptiles and amphibians.  The Cohos Trail is a 165-mile trail which heads north from Crawford Notch in the White Mountains to the Canadian border.  We will hike a section of this between Stark and Dixville Notch...through the middle of the Nash Stream Forest.  This section is approximately 38 miles and provides a true wilderness experience.  Notable features along this route include the Percy Peaks, Mount Sugarloaf, the Devil's Jacuzzi, Nash Bog, Gadwah and Kelsey Notches, Dixville Peak, Huntington Falls and magnificient views from Table Rock over Dixville Notch. 

Total Distance and Elevation Gain:  Approximately 38 miles from Stark to Dixville Notch...expect 12-15 miles and 2500 feet in elevation gain per day. 

Harsh weather may postpone to another date or cancel, as appropriate. 

What to Bring:  You will need a pack, tent/bivy, sleeping bag/pad, extra dry clothes/towel, food for 3 lunches, 2 dinners and 2 breakfasts, headlamp, bear bag/cannister, camp stove, water filter, etc. (some double up is possible for shared equipment...tents, bear bags, stoves, water filter).  Typical summer hiking gear should be appropriate:  convertible hiking pants, good sturdy hiking boots with thick socks and a windbreaker/raingear (just in case).  Snacks and at least 2 liters of water (water can be filtered along the way).  Optionally, pack bug repellent and sunscreen and anything else that you may require for a multi-day hike.  NOTE:  There are some lean-tos along the route, but we cannot count on them, so be prepared to camp each night. 

NOTE:  We will be hiking northbound out of Stark, NH.  To do this, we will need to spot a car up in Dixville Notch Friday evening.  The plan is to start the backpack Friday evening or early Saturday morning.  SOME ADDITIONAL LOGISTICS MAY NEED TO BE ARRANGED PRIOR TO THE TRIP (E.G. FRIDAY NIGHT CAMPING/LODGING AS WELL AS FRIDAY DINNER AND SATURDAY BREAKFAST).  THIS WILL BE COORDINATED ONCE I HAVE A FEEL FOR ATTENDANCE).