nice backcountry backpack in northern new hampshire or vermont?

[Evan14]

Hi-
I'm looking for a good trip this summer. One or two nights, some good hiking, views, maybe some swimming. And as few people as possible

The main thing I'm looking for is ideas for backcountry campsites that are undeveloped and beautiful. I'm used to camping out west where its alot more open.

I've read the backcountry rules for the WMNF -- and am thinking about the northern section of the national forest.

Any places that are near or along some great hikes, a 2 or three day loop, and have little undergrowth, park-like, or meadows?

Someplace maybe that people have camped at before, but is off the track, or little known?

Thanks!
-Evan

 

[--M.]

Wild River Valley

Not exactly desolate, but relatively few people seem to know about the Wild River and Evans Notch. And they're AWESOME!

I would also love to hear other answers that include good fishing!

Great query.

 

[Tramper Al]

. . . and have little undergrowth, park-like, or meadows?

Hi,

I was ready to jump in with a couple of suggestions until I got to this part. For what most people consider "views", you'll need mountains, that's easy, and some of them see little traffic. But little undergrowth, park-like, or meadows? Is it just a matter of having a 'clear' space to pitch the tent? I think you are describing a campground, but you'd like one where nobody camps, so I'm not sure what to suggest. There are 'meadows', but I think most tend to be bogs or other wetland. Maybe a climax forest near, but not on a trail? Even a former logging site is likely to have a trail/road in and get some foot traffic.

I think your idea of the 'northern section of the national forest' is a very good one, and what I was going to suggest. You can make a nice 2 day loop in the Kilkenny, and I think you will find fewer fellow hikers than many other places in the Whites. A place like Unkown Pond is a designated campsite, but meets your criteria for clear ground camping. I think any place with trail, though, you may see other hikers. If you really want to get lost, you're probably going to have to get off the trails.