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| View from Lila's Ledge in Pinkham Notch |
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| Old Jackson Road trail junction |
As the first projected Noreaster hits New England, it's time to think about places to snowshoe and winter hike. Here is a great half day snowshoe that promises great views, cardiovascular workout and moderately difficult hiking. It can be done every season of the year.
This hike leaves from Pinkham Notch Visitor Center/AMC Joe Dodge Lodge on Rt. 16 in the White Mountains of New Hampshire. Use a map to guide your trek, but here are instructions on how I hike the loop...
1. Leave from AMC Joe Dodge Lodge and hike up Old Jackson Rd. (AT). This is a flairly flat section.
2. Take a right onto the Crew Cut Trail right after the "bridge".
3. Continue up the Crew Cut Trail to Lila's Ledge. This ascends steeply to a nice overlook with gorgeous views. Stop and enjoy the views of Wildcat Ski area and Tuckermans Ravine.
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| View of Pinkham Notch from Lila's Ledge |
5. Take a left at the George's Gorge Trail and hike back until you reach the Old Jackson Road again.
6. Take Old Jackson Road back to the AMC Jodge Lodge/Pinkham Notch visitor center.
Overall, I believe this loop to be about 4.5 miles. In heavy snow, it will take 3-5 hours and shorter in less snow.
For this half day winter hike, remember to pack...
- Map and Compass
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| Snowshoe and winter hiking in the White Mountains |
- Snacks
- First Aid kit
- Extra warm layers including hat, gloves, scarf, fleece, and shell.
- Wear warm weather non-cotton clothing
- Wear winter boots and bring traction (Yaktrax, MicroSpikes, or Snowshoes)
- Treking poles or ski poles
- Head lamp
For a more complete list of things to pack refer to the previous post: Ten Things to Pack for a Fall Day Hike.
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| Jenny and I enjoy snowshoeing off Old Jackson Rd. |
Ask the information desk at AMC Pinkham Notch Visitor Center if you have questions or concerns.
Please leave any questions of comments about this hike below!
