The range of temperatures in New Hampshire this spring has been astonishing. Temperatures reached 85 when I hiked the Welch-Dickey Loop in the middle of April. There was still snow on the ground and I wasn’t at all acclimated to the heat. I felt like I was being grilled on the granite slabs and I …
The worst frost on record and near 100-degree temperatures: it’s spring in New Hampshire Read More »
I’ve hiked Cardigan Mountain via the 2.7 mile out-and-back West Ridge Trail more times than I can remember. It was the first mountain I climbed as a kid, and I’ve hiked it in every season and at a range of fitness level. I’ve even hiked Cardigan at night. I believe I am uniquely qualified to …
I arrived at the Mount Morgan trailhead just after 10 AM and was surprised to see that the parking lots on both sides of the road were completely full. A handful of cars were driving back and forth between the lots waiting for a space. One lady got out of her car and approached me …
Hiking the Mount Morgan and Mount Percival Loop in Center Sandwich, NH Read More »
Is there anything better than a packed snow trail, when the roots, rocks, dips, and puddles are stowed away for warmer days? The snow pavement, along with a good pair of microspikes, makes hiking feel a little more streamlined. It becomes easier to lift your eyes from the trail in front of your feet and …
On yet another unseasonably warm January day, I arrived at the Oak Hill City Forest trailhead to squeeze my car into the last parking space. The lot holds about 15 cars and, in the time it took me to put on my boots, two more cars parked on the road outside the parking area. Since …
Whether you’ve been planning a hike for weeks or whether you set out on a whim – once you’ve decided to reach a certain destination, it can be really hard to turn around. There’s a lot of internal and external pressure pushing you to achieve the goal. But knowing when to turn around is one …
The 4.4 mile Welch-Dickey Loop Trail in Thornton, NH is non-stop panoramic views and granite slabs. While parking is plentiful at the trailhead, this hike is popular! Arrive early to make sure you can get a spot and don’t forget to bring your $5 park fee. I recommend you hike the loop counterclockwise, heading toward Mount …
Hiking the Welch-Dickey Loop Trail in Thornton, New Hampshire Read More »
Most New Hampshire fire towers are built with a metal frame, wooden stairs, and a wooden observation deck. I think that’s why the stone observation tower on Mount Prospect in Lancaster piqued my interest. But getting there and back meant 4-hours in the car for a hike that’s only about 3 miles! The payoff didn’t …
A walk to Mount Prospect Fire Tower in Lancaster, New Hampshire. Read More »
On a recent hike, I sat for a while to enjoy the quiet by a crystal-clear pond ringed by vibrant green pine trees. As I gazed at the bright bluebird sky, I noticed tiny dots racing in front of my eyes like no-see-ums flying above the water. As I relaxed my eyes and tried to …
Christmas is right around the corner and if you are looking for the perfect gift for the hiker in your life, I have some great ideas! Check out the list below and let me know what you’re planning to give, or hoping to receive, this holiday season! 1. New Hampshire Hike-Opoly Board Game The perfect …
