We ended up taking the very clearly marked trail #6 and trail #8 to the summit for a total of 7.1kms one way. The first 2kms were dry enough and through the forest, then came 2kms of boot sucking mud (in spots) as the trail was literally a water stream. The final 2-3kms is a mix of steep incline, forest, and snow. Like up to yo waist snow. Being the smart cookies we are, we quickly figured out the best. route was to walk were the snowshoers (not a word but you get it) have compounded the snow. One accidental side step to the left or right and woooooooomph – instant sink in the snow up to your waist. I became the champ at these missteps and it felt like 2kms of pistol squats, ha ha, which, ummmm, I can’t actually do. We laughs tons, but oye, did the ‘ol legs ever feel the burn! I think Kris and I literally squealed with pure joy when we broke out of the tree. This was better than Christmas. Breaking out from the trail and onto the summit near takes your breath away – there it is, that oh so blue view of rolling mountain ranges. There are a few rock formations to serve as a wind break (much needed) and a look out tower that gives a stellar 360′ view. We were able to see Mount Washington and the Presidentials from the summit! Aaaahhhhh, life is good. Washington was one of my fave hikes that we managed to do a few years back.
We rented a rustic cabin located 800m from the parking lot from the park itself for a relatively good price. The cabins are beautiful. Sparse, clean, and well maintained. It had an outhouse and all the firewood we could have needed. There was a pot and pan for our use. Kindly note that all instructions, including stove instructions, are in french only.
