Discovering the Thrilling and Invigorating Alpine Trail Hike in New Hampshire's White Mountains
Exploring the Pemigewasset Loop: A Challenging Hike in New Hampshire's White Mountains
The Pemigewasset Loop, often referred to as the Pemi Loop, is a renowned hiking trail in New Hampshire's White Mountains. This 30+ mile loop, known for its steep, rocky terrain and alpine ridges, is a proving ground for hikers looking to tackle more challenging hikes in the region.
The journey begins and ends at the Lincoln Woods trailhead off the Kancamagus Highway. The initial part of the trail is an easy-going five-mile walk along the east branch of the Pemigewasset River. However, as you progress, the trail descends from Flume with a straight elevation loss of nearly 3,000 feet back to the parking lot at Lincoln Woods.
The Pemi Loop is not suitable for beginner-level backpackers but serves as an intermediary before more challenging hikes. The trail passes through the section of the Pemi that is maintained by the Appalachian Mountain Club (AMC), including the Galehead Hut. The loop comprises eight peaks over 4,000 feet, with over 9,000 feet of elevation gain, and includes sections of tricky terrain.
The first two peaks of the trail are Bondcliff and Mount Bond, offering astounding views of the lower valleys and notches. One of the most beautiful hikes along the loop is the outstandingly beautiful hike along Franconia Ridge, which meets up with the Appalachian Trail and forms its most alpine section.
For those looking to undertake this multi-day hike, essential preparations and gear include physical readiness for steep climbs and rocky terrain, navigation tools, water management, appropriate hiking gear, layered clothing for potentially harsh alpine conditions, shelter options, food, safety and emergency items, permits, and information about hut reservations and current trail conditions.
The Appalachian Mountain Club (AMC) also offers a condensed, guided, version of this hike that runs between three of their huts, a great option for those who'd rather not camp. The AMC maintains three, first-come-first-served campsites along the loop: Liberty Springs, Garfield Ridge, and Guyot.
The Pemi Loop is one of the greatest hikes in New England and is recommended to be taken counterclockwise. It is a popular destination for hiking, especially during summer, and hiking tourism in the White Mountains has increased since the pandemic. For the best foliage, it is recommended to take the trail in later summer or early fall.
The Pemigewasset Wilderness, also known as "The Pemi", is a 45,000 acre wilderness within the scenic White Mountain National Forest. The trail summits the peaks of Gale, Garfield, Lafayette, Lincoln, Little Haystack, Liberty, and Flume. The Pemi Loop comprises over 60 miles of maintained trails, with 32 trails making up the iconic loop trail.
In summary, the Pemi Loop is a challenging but rewarding hike for experienced backpackers. With careful planning, the right gear, and a sense of adventure, this trail offers breathtaking views and a memorable hiking experience.
- For those who enjoy outdoor lifestyle and home-and-garden activities, gardening the lush terrain surrounding the Pemigewasset Loop could yield beautiful results, mimicking the alpine flora found along the trail.
- If you're planning a multi-day adventure and are not quite ready for the challenging terrain of the Pemi Loop, travel guides on home-and-garden lifestyles may provide helpful tips for finding less strenuous, yet equally rewarding hiking trails in New Hampshire's White Mountains.
