Join us on February 21st at 9 am for a winter hike up Mount Major in Alton, NH, which has amazing views of Lake Winnipesaukee. Our plan will be to hike up the Main Trail and descend on the Brook Trail for a total of 4 miles and 1,154 ft of elevation gain. If conditions are icy, the plan will be adjusted to an up-and-back on the Brook Trail to limit risk in a few steep areas. This will add 0.8 miles, but the grade will be easier. This will be a slower pace hike- about 1 to 1.5 miles per hour, but not a “turtle” hike. We will only take quick breaks for water and layer adjustment, as stopping for long in the winter is dangerous. This hike has uneven terrain, moderate elevation gain, and a few small water crossings. Participants should be comfortable carrying a pack with necessary equipment, balancing their body weight during water crossings, hiking steep terrain, and hiking for several hours with only brief breaks.

Because it is a winter hike, specialized equipment (micro-spikes) is required, and there are restrictions on what not to wear (absolutely no cotton). I will host a Zoom call the week before the hike for anyone who wants an in-depth conversation about what to pack and tips for making winter hiking more enjoyable. A detailed list of what to pack will be emailed to participants.