Date: 2014-07-09
To: White Mountain Hostel &Lodge
Miles today: 0.0
Weather: few clouds

I've decided to do a quick update of the highlight of my trip so far... The Whites! AND to announce, a few days late, that I have reached my 4th month on trail (as of June 5th). Wahoo! I can't believe I am nearing the end of this adventure. I don't even want to think of it. We took our time through the White Mountains, because we just wanted to soak it all in. I committed myself to taking any side trail less than .3 miles to see a view and or explore... And then we were above tree line for over 18 miles! So there was no need, because we had views for DAYS! Yes, views for days, because some days we covered less than 7 AT miles. But we were trying to set ourselves up for a good spot for independence day and taking side trails for worth while adventures, etc.... Some of my favorite experiences include: Mt. Moosilauke The first of the Whites (along the AT), this mountain hits you like a brick wall. But it was awesome! after climbing all morning (3800 ft in 5.5 miles) the rush at the top was fantastic. I was so happy and excited to be walking above treeline with such spectacular views. Then it took us all afternoon to climb down as the rocks were steep and slick next to a river with multiple falls. We were good to call it a day after that mountain. Heh heh... Kinsman Franconia Ridge Another BIG and challenging climb was the climb up to Franconia Ridge. I felt really good that day, excited for what was to come. We watched a storm roll in on Mt. Lafayette and had to hike the rest of the day in the rain, but we were able to "work for stay" at a shelter and dry off. The Bonds! Took a worth while side trip to Mt. Bond and Bondcliffs. Added about 5 miles to our trek, but it was worth while. We were able to stash our packs at a shelter (once we left the AT) and do our first slack pack (it's when you hike without all your stuff, which is only something we will do off trail. "BACKPACKING for dayzzzz!"). SUPER cool spot, and worth the extra miles. That night we stayed at our first hut and did work for stay (Zealand Hut).Independence Day! On the 4th we started the Presidentials on our way up to Mt. Washington. It felt fitting... http://youtu.be/SwCbLA-MZM4Lake of the Clouds We timed it perfectly to be up at "Lake of the Clouds" on the 5th for fireworks, since it was rainy on the 4th. We had the most AMAZING sunset and later watched tiny fireworks go off all over the mountains bellow. It seemed like we could see all of the fireworks in New Hampshire. Pretty cool. Mt. Washington We summited Mt. Washington on the perfect day! In the morning the mountain was doing it's thing. Stormy, clouds blowing across the top, low visibility, WINDY! And by mid day the weather was just perfect, with clear skies and views all around. I loved the fact that we experienced both extremes. The gusts that morning were apparently 96mph. I summited each president along the AT. I figured, what the heck! Never know when or if I'll be here again. So I hit the peaks of Jackson, Pierce, Eisenhower, Monroe, Washington, Jefferson, Adams and Madison. Those not listed in the presidential range (for whatever reason), but still hit along the trail were Garfield and Carter. I guess I missed JQ Adams, because he was hiding behind Adams, but I can just visit him "next time." Actually, the White Mountains of New Hampshire were the best so far! And I would TOTALY do this section again, One Day