GET WINTER INTRO HIKE #1: PACK MONADNOCK

The sun was shining and the temperature was a comfortable 50 degrees! After a strenuous rocky start, we managed as a group to keep a steady pace with a few rest breaks peppered here and there as we made our destination towards the summit. Upon reaching the summit, a few took turns climbing the steps of the observation tower where views of the Boston sky line could be seen from 50 plus miles away in the distance! Northern mountains far and near could be seen as well. We had lunch at picnic tables on the breezy summit and then made our descent via the Marion Davis Trail that traverses much less strenuous terrain than the Wapack Trail. A very fun and enjoyable trek as winter is unfolding in the Monadnock Region! Our sincere thanks to all who signed up and made this hike immensely entertaining and enjoyable.

Our first of five winter introduction hikes to ease you into winter hiking leading to ascending your first winter 4,000 footer! We know we won’t be encountering snow just yet but the purpose of this hike is simply to get you familiar with hiking in cold weather and layering your clothes so you don’t overheat.

Pack Monadnock Mountain is a classic summit in Southern New Hampshire famous for it's scenic views! There is a fire tower on the summit where we can see Mount Monadnock, the White Mountains, and even Boston in the distance on a clear day! The mountain stands at 2,290 feet and we’ll be doing a great loop hike utilizing the Wapack and Marion Davis trails. Both trails start at the same kiosk, so you’ll end in the same place you started. The Wapack Trail has some steep and rocky sections for the ascent but we don’t expect anyone to have any issues with it.

The entire loop hike is only 3 miles with 850 feet elevation gain. We’ll have lunch on the summit. Start time is 11AM.

Don't forget to wear warm layers [NO COTTON OR BLUE JEANS], gloves, warm hat, rain/wind shell, water, lunch, snacks, and anything else you would bring for a cold weather hike. We are packing hand warmers for our gloves and it’s not a bad idea to bring MicroSpikes in case we encounter icy conditions. Winter insulated boots to keep your feet and toes warm might not be needed just yet but it’s certainly time to think about buying a pair as they will be needed as we approach winter.  Since this is an introduction series, please don’t hesitate to contact us if you have any questions on the clothing and gear to bring!  

There is an entrance fee of $4 per person that is paid at the booth as you drive in.