To hut or not to hut? That is the question

[Tom Rankin]

I'd also like to point out that while ridgewalks are, in general, easier, ridgewalks around Mt Washington are not. You'll be doing a lot of rock hopping on all of those trails, so your knees will still get a big workout.

And above treeline can be great, until the weather takes a sudden turn for the worse. Been there, done that!

Coldfeet, make sure you are prepared with bail out routes and appropriate foul weather gear.

As far as the huts go, I love them. Yes, they are $$$, but I feel like I get my money's worth, since I am not a camper. The food is great, and the people I've met have been quite a diverse lot, to say the least!

Lastly, if I had to spend the bucks to get fully stocked for camping, it would cost more than a few nights in a hut!

 

[KayakDan]

Consider the Osgood tent platforms. A fairly easy hike in,drop your gear on a platform. There is a good water supply,and a fairly new outhouse at the site. You can do an easy dayhike over to The Bluff,for some great views,and continue a way on the Great Gulf trail if you have the energy. You also have the option of going up the Osgood trail,to get above tree line,and go for the Madison summit if you wish.

DougPaul has a good suggestion with the Rocky Branch Shelter,and platforms
also. That is a really easy hike in,with platforms right along the river.

Wish I had all the options you have,when I take the grandkids camping in Ohio. The options are pretty poor.
We are so fortunate to have the WMNF in our "backyard"!

 

[coldfeet]

Thx everyone, I owe you some NYC bagels at the next gathering (sorry not the bluffs, gotta work).....please please please hold up on the suggestions.....my head is spinning and I can't find some of those areas on the map...where's the bluffs? Imagine bringing a friend with you on a trip up there...holy smokes, a million options......it's worse that ordering at a diner...and I am concerned always about the weather....especially when children are concerned...

David...thx for the tip about the ridge walk also

SherpaK...you gave more than .03......thank you..

Also I am in no way saying anything negative about the cost of a hut....I truly think that part of the cost includes lowering my pack weight and enjoying the trip some more..which is worth it for me....just wish the kids cost was a little less....my kids eat like birds...unless they serve chicken fingers and pizza!

 

[SherpaKroto]

Bluff

The Bluff is located:
a) very near the first junction of the Great Gulf and Madison Gulf Trails
b) in Oxford, Maine on 7/27-29

BTW, the only trail I would be comfortable taking children out of the Great Gulf to the Presi summits is the Osgood.

 

[MichaelJ]

The view from the Bluff. There are backcountry tentsites right at the Bluff, as well as one others further in along the Great Gulf Trail, including at the start of the Buttress Trail up to Adams & Madison.

SK - you wouldn't take the kids up the Buttress Trail? The talus slope at the beginning is easy enough to cross then it's a cakewalk up with great views down low and up high.

 

[coldfeet]

MichaelJ.....nice pics....I took out a book from the library to use but it's an AT book of Vermont and NH so the maps are a little confusing.....going to buy the new AMC NH book tonight or this weekend....Baxter trip seemed so easy last year....book Chimney pond and go up a trail....

Also SherpaK made a good point, come up with a plan B for inclement weather...kids like bike riding and fishing also...oh please...no suggestions just yet....thx ....

 

[Stan]

If you're all up to the mileage, split the difference on a Presidentail traverse. One night at an RMC cabin, one night at Lakes of the Clouds and one night at the Mizpah tent platforms with meals at the huts except for the RMC cabin. That means you bring meals for one day plus lunches and the tent. A compromise between the convenience of the huts and the expense. Good luck with the weather and they can be long days if you touch all the peaks.