Presidential Traverse Adventure
CATEGORY
Traverse
SEASON
Summer
LOCATION
Presidential Traverse, White Mountains, NH
DATE
Aug 9, 2025
Expedition Itinerary: Presidential Traverse Expedition
Primary Objective: end-to-end traverse
Trip Duration: 5 days
Total Estimated Mileage: ~23 miles
Experience Level: advanced
Terrain Type: large mountains
- Cumulative elevation gain/loss (ft): 9,000 ft
- Start and end trailhead: Appalachia Trailhead, NH to Crawford Notch, NH
- GPS coordinates: 44.3683, -71.2615 to 44.1777, -71.4003
- Permits: Obtain via White Mountain National Forest website
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DAY 1: Appalachia Trailhead, NH to Madison Springs Hut
- Distance and elevation gain/loss: 3.8 miles, +4,000 ft
- Primary trail(s) used: Valley Way Trail
- Terrain description: Steep wooded trail ascending to alpine zone
- Notable features or side quests: Visit Star Lake
- Key water sources: Valley Way spring
- Campsite location: Madison Spring Hut
- Wildlife or safety notes: Potential for high winds
- Trail tip: Start early to avoid afternoon thunderstorms
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DAY 2: Madison Spring Hut to Lakes of the Clouds Hut
- Distance and elevation gain/loss: 7.8 miles, +2,000 ft
- Primary trail(s) used: Gulfside Trail, Westside Trail
- Terrain description: Rocky ridgeline with open views
- Notable features or side quests: Summit Mt. Washington
- Key water sources: Lakes of the Clouds Hut
- Campsite location: Lakes of the Clouds Hut
- Wildlife or safety notes: Prepare for sudden weather changes
- Trail tip: Secure gear tightly for ridge winds
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DAY 3: Lakes of the Clouds Hut to Mizpah Spring Hut
- Distance and elevation gain/loss: 5.1 miles, +500 ft
- Primary trail(s) used: Crawford Path, Webster Cliff Trail
- Terrain description: Alpine terrain transitioning to subalpine forest
- Notable features or side quests: Nauman Tent Site
- Key water sources: Mizpah Spring
- Campsite location: Mizpah Spring Hut
- Wildlife or safety notes: Watch for slippery rocks
- Trail tip: Use hut facilities to refill water and charge devices
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DAY 4: Mizpah Spring Hut to Ethan Pond Shelter
- Distance and elevation gain/loss: 5.3 miles, -1,500 ft
- Primary trail(s) used: Crawford Path, Avalon Trail
- Terrain description: Descends through dense forest
- Notable features or side quests: Visit Ripley Falls
- Key water sources: Ethan Pond
- Campsite location: Ethan Pond Shelter
- Wildlife or safety notes: Bear activity reported, use bear boxes
- Trail tip: Early morning hike for best wildlife sightings
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DAY 5: Ethan Pond Shelter to Crawford Notch, NH
- Distance and elevation gain/loss: 3 miles, -500 ft
- Primary trail(s) used: Ethan Pond Trail
- Terrain description: Gradual descent, easy terrain
- Notable features or side quests: Views of Zealand Notch
- Key water sources: Parker Brook
- Campsite location: N/A (end of trek)
- Wildlife or safety notes: Final day, maintain energy for descent
- Trail tip: Contact shuttle service in advance for pick-up
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CAMPSITE INTEL
- Camp names and elevation: Madison Spring Hut (4,800 ft), Lakes of the Clouds Hut (5,030 ft), Mizpah Spring Hut (3,800 ft), Ethan Pond Shelter (2,931 ft)
- Fire restrictions: Fires not permitted above treeline
- Bear safety and food storage: Use bear-proof canisters and storage areas
- Best views (sunrise/sunset): Lakes of the Clouds Hut
- Noise level or solitude factor: Moderate noise at huts
- Nearest water source: Available at each hut
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WEATHER & ALTITUDE NOTES
- Typical temps: 40-70°F in August
- Sun exposure: High UV at alpine elevations
- Acclimatization tips: Hydrate and ascend gradually
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GEAR CHECKLIST (10 ESSENTIAL ITEMS)
List tailored to terrain and season
- Navigation tools (map, compass)
- Water filtration system
- Sunscreen and sunglasses
- First aid kit
- Fire starter and matches
- Pocket knife
- Headlamp with extra batteries
- Shelter system (tent, tarp)
- Insulating layers
- Nutrition/snacks (high-calorie options)
Pro tips: Consider ultralight gear to reduce weight; pack extra socks to maintain foot comfort
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OPTIONAL UPGRADES
- Scenic side trips: Summit Mt. Jefferson
- Photo-worthy moments: Sunrise at Lakes of the Clouds
- Post-hike food or reward suggestion: Dinner at the Highland Center Lodge
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FINAL BRIEF SUMMARY
- Trail hours per day: 6-8 hours
- Wake/sleep rhythm: Wake at sunrise, sleep by 9 PM
- Estimated calories burned per day: ~3,500 calories
- Water needed per person: 3-4 liters
- Recommended pack weight range: 25-30 lbs
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Prepare accordingly and respect all wilderness guidelines.
Your expedition awaits, Christopher Arace.
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Missions: Field Debriefs
Every mission here has been completed, but the terrain still speaks. Proceed with respect.
