• Traversing the Crawford Path to Mt Washington
  
• Climbing Mt. Washington, the highest peak in the Whites
• Experiencing "hut culture"
  
• Hot meals and beds in the high mountains

Traversing some of the tallest peaks in the region, this section of the Appalachian Trail is widely regarded as one of its most magnificent sections. But it's not only the beauty that makes it unique. Spaced a day apart are a series of huts that offer hot and hearty meals and a warm bed at the end of the day. If you want to spend time hiking the AT, without having to carry a full backpack, come join us as we hike hut to hut!

women in  good physical condition who enjoy spectacular and at times strenuous mountain hiking with staying in rustic huts. While extensive hiking experience is not essential, you should be prepared to hike uphill for two hours at a time, on a trail that is usually rocky and uneven, with a pack containing your clothing and water. Some of the path is exposed and women with a significant fear of heights might find it difficult.

• one night at the Highland Center
• two nights in rustic mountain huts

• experienced guides
• three nights lodging, including one at the Highland Center and two in huts
• meals from dinner Thursday through the following Sunday's breakfast, except for lunches
• permits
• White Mt. guidebook

arrive at the AMC Highland Center at Crawford Notch at 5:30 pm. If you are flying into Manchester (MHT), allow 2 hours to drive there

at 1 pm at the bottom of Mt Washington

summary of this information, packing list, notes on packing list, general information

 July is usually a lovely month in the White Mountains. However, like any mountain environment, the weather can be quite variable with high winds and rain. Although adverse conditions would not cause us to cancel the trip, modifications in the itinerary might be made if conditions warrant.

Thursday: The trip begins at 5:30 pm at the AMC Highland Center at Crawford Notch. This center, the newest one built and run by the Appalachian Mountain Club, is a great place to start the trip with its showcasing of green construction techniques and energy efficiency. We'll start getting to know each other that night at the four course dinner they serve and review safety considerations before going to bed early.

Friday: After arranging a car shuttle, we have time to visit the Crawford Notch Depot Visitor Center before starting our hike. Built in 1891, the depot offers visitors informative displays on the surrounding natural environment and provides a good introduction to the area. Our destination tonight is Mizpah Springs Hut and there are several different ways we could go, depending on the weather and our time: the Webster Cliff Trail takes 5 to 6 hours and gains 3000 feet whereas the Crawford Path takes about 3 hours and gains 2000 feet. Whichever we take, our hike will be rewarded with great views.

Saturday: We continue north on the Crawford Path today, which takes us up and over Mt. Pierce, Mt. Eisenhower, Mt. Franklin and Mt. Monroe before reaching Lake of the Clouds Hut. Although our net elevation gain is only 1200 feet, our actual elevation gain is considerably more and will take us between 3 and 5 hours. There are two lakes there and after our hike we'll want to cool at least our feet, and perhaps all of us!

Sunday: Today we'll hike to the top of Mt. Washington, at 6,288 feet the highest peak in the White Mts. It's always a bit unsettling to get to the top of Mt. Washington and see people in heels who have driven up or taken the cog railway, but it would be a shame to avoid it. After visiting one of the museums on top we'll take the cog railway down to the aprking lot at the bottom. The cog railway, in addition to saving our knees, is a very fun way to end the trip. Once we are at the bottom, you are free to leave or to go out for lunch before heading back to the airport or your home.