Presidential Traverse Friends Expedition
CATEGORY
Traverse
SEASON
Summer
LOCATION
White Mountains, NH
DATE
Aug 9, 2025
Expedition Itinerary: Presidential Traverse Mastery
Primary Objective: end-to-end traverse
Trip Duration: 6 days
Total Estimated Mileage: ~30 miles
Experience Level: advanced
Terrain Type: large mountains
- Cumulative elevation gain/loss (ft): 9,000 ft
- Start and end trailhead: Valley Way Trailhead, NH to Crawford Notch, NH
- GPS coordinates: 44.2543, -71.3430 to 44.1585, -71.4123
- Permits: Obtain from U.S. Forest Service for group size
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DAY 1: Valley Way Trailhead to Madison Springs Hut
- Distance and elevation gain/loss: 3.8 miles, +3,550 ft
- Primary trail(s) used: Valley Way Trail
- Terrain description: Dense forest ascending to alpine zone
- Notable features or side quests: Madison Spring Lake
- Key water sources: Filter at Valley Way Brook
- Campsite location: AMC Madison Springs Hut
- Wildlife or safety notes: Watch for sudden weather changes
- Trail tip: Start early to avoid afternoon storms
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DAY 2: Madison Springs Hut to Lakes of the Clouds Hut
- Distance and elevation gain/loss: 7.9 miles, +2,900 ft
- Primary trail(s) used: Gulfside Trail → Appalachian Trail
- Terrain description: Exposed ridgelines with mixed rock scrambles
- Notable features or side quests: Summit Mt. Adams and Mt. Jefferson
- Key water sources: Hut facilities
- Campsite location: AMC Lakes of the Clouds Hut
- Wildlife or safety notes: High winds possible; secure belongings
- Trail tip: Use trekking poles for stability on rocky sections
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DAY 3: Lakes of the Clouds Hut to Mizpah Spring Hut
- Distance and elevation gain/loss: 5.1 miles, +900 ft
- Primary trail(s) used: Crawford Path → Webster Cliff Trail
- Terrain description: Descending into krummholz and subalpine forests
- Notable features or side quests: Summit Mt. Pierce
- Key water sources: Filter at Mizpah Spring
- Campsite location: AMC Mizpah Spring Hut
- Wildlife or safety notes: Black bears frequent the area; practice safe food storage
- Trail tip: Monitor the weather before Mt. Washington summit
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DAY 4: Mizpah Spring Hut to Nauman Tent Site
- Distance and elevation gain/loss: 2.8 miles, +500 ft
- Primary trail(s) used: Appalachian Trail → Nauman Trail
- Terrain description: Gentle descending trails through forests
- Notable features or side quests: Visit the historic Crawford Depot
- Key water sources: Nearby streams
- Campsite location: Nauman Tent Site
- Wildlife or safety notes: Secure food against wildlife
- Trail tip: Arrive early to secure a tent platform
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DAY 5: Nauman Tent Site to Ethan Pond Campground
- Distance and elevation gain/loss: 5.3 miles, +400 ft
- Primary trail(s) used: Ethan Pond Trail
- Terrain description: Rolling terrain with wide paths
- Notable features or side quests: Scenic views of Whitewall Brook
- Key water sources: Streams along the trail
- Campsite location: Ethan Pond Campground
- Wildlife or safety notes: Campground can be busy; plan for crowds
- Trail tip: Pack out all trash to keep the trail clean
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DAY 6: Ethan Pond Campground to Crawford Notch
- Distance and elevation gain/loss: 5.1 miles, -850 ft
- Primary trail(s) used: Ethan Pond Trail → Willey Range Trail
- Terrain description: Gradual descent through woods
- Notable features or side quests: Views down to Crawford Notch
- Key water sources: Filter at Willey Range Brook
- Campsite location: None (trailhead departure)
- Wildlife or safety notes: Be cautious on wet, rocky descents
- Trail tip: Shuttle arrangements advised for return transport
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CAMPSITE INTEL
- Camp names and elevation: Madison Springs Hut (4,800 ft), Lakes of the Clouds Hut (5,050 ft), Mizpah Spring Hut (3,800 ft), Nauman Tent Site (3,200 ft), Ethan Pond Campground (2,900 ft)
- Fire restrictions: No open fires; use camp stoves
- Bear safety and food storage: Use provided bear boxes
- Best views (sunrise/sunset): Lakes of the Clouds Hut
- Noise level or solitude factor: High traffic; expect groups
- Nearest water source: Hut facilities or nearby streams
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WEATHER & ALTITUDE NOTES
- Typical temps: 40-60°F (daytime), 30-40°F (night)
- Sun exposure: High on ridges; use sunscreen
- Acclimatization tips: Avoid overexertion above 5,000 ft
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GEAR CHECKLIST (10 ESSENTIAL ITEMS)
- 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 using a lightweight, compact stove for efficiency. Pack extra layers for unpredictable weather.
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OPTIONAL UPGRADES
- Scenic side trips: Summit of Mt. Clay for panoramic views
- Photo-worthy moments: Sunrise at Mt. Washington
- Post-hike food or reward suggestion: Pizza in Gorham, NH
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FINAL BRIEF SUMMARY
- Trail hours per day: 6-8 hours
- Wake/sleep rhythm: Early start, settle by dusk
- Estimated calories burned per day: 3,000-4,000 calories
- Water needed per person: 3-4 liters
- Recommended pack weight range: 30-35 lbs
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Prepare accordingly and respect all wilderness guidelines.
Your expedition awaits, Christopher Arace.
Missions: Field Debriefs
Every mission here has been completed, but the terrain still speaks. Proceed with respect.
