Moosilauke and South Peak Loop Hike

We started our morning as we always do by waking up and getting out of bed. We stopped at Yaya's for breakfast. I was feeling off because I had an egg sandwich on oatmeal day. I'll review my breakfast schedule with the owner of Yaya's for his future reference. We met the hike participants and after exchanging loving hugs, we headed to the lodge. I was puzzled as to why there were so many cougars parading around with their boytoys, until I realized those weren't cougars, but moms with their sons celebrating Mother's Day. We started our ascent. It was warm, sunny and the trail was opulently green. We enjoyed great conversation about life, nature, but most importantly, Eartha Kitt. As we neared North Peak, we had to use our agility and wits to get past the monorails. We reached North Peak and took in the views. Our journey continued until we reached the top of Moosilauke. It was hard nip cold up there with temps in the single digits and a strong frosty wind. Tough men that we are, we hid behind a rock for a few minutes, then continued towards South Peak. After tricky monorails and numerous pee stops, we reached our last destination and enjoyed a delightful lunch. The descent was warm and pleasant. We spent some time in the lodge together afterwards enjoying coffee and chocolate cake. Sadly, the hike ended, and we all went our separate ways. I got home and took a bubble bath. I discovered a tick in the tub. I've never taken a bubble bath with a tick before. We looked at each other and relaxed. Thanks, guys, for signing up to the hike.

Happy Mother's Day!

Join me for this loop hike encompassing both of Moosilauke's peaks...North and and the less-visited South Peak.  Our route will start and end at the Dartmouth Ravine Lodge and will utilize the Gorge Brook, AT, Carriage Road and Snapper trails in that order.  This loop is about 7.5 miles with an additional 0.4 miles for the South Peak spur trail.  There is approximately 2450 feet in total elevation gain.  The trail is modest in grade...probably one of the gentlest ascents on the mountain.  This is due to its numerous switch-backs on the way up.  There are views to the east on the way up along the trail cuminating with sweeping 365-degree views from both summits.  This approach to the summit has the least amount of distance from treeline to summit.  It should take approximately 6-7 hours, depending on lunch and other breaks.

Total Distance and Elevation:  7.9 miles with 2450 feet in elevation.

Mount Moosilauke and South Peak Loop, New Hampshire - 6,050 Reviews, Map | AllTrails

What to Bring:  Spring hiking gear should be appropriate:  convertible hiking pants, good sturdy hiking boots with thick socks, extra layer(s) and a windbreaker/raingear (just in case...the weather on the summit can be harsh).  Also bring along lunch, snacks and plenty of water.  Optionally, pack bug repellent and sunscreen and anything else that you may require for a day hike.