What is the official Presidential Traverse?

The Presidential Traverse is a strenuous and sometimes dangerous trek over the Presidential Range of New Hampshire’s White Mountains. Contained almost entirely in the 750,000-acre (3,000 km2) White Mountain National Forest, the Presidential Range is a string of summits in excess of 4,000 feet (1,200 m).

How difficult is the Presidential Traverse?

The Presidential Traverse is one of the most challenging and beautiful point-to-point hikes in the Whites, and the Northeast at large. It summits up to eight of New Hampshire’s 4,000-foot mountains—including the five tallest in New England—with the most notable being the iconic Mount Washington.

How far is the Presidential Traverse?

Covering nearly 20 miles of sometimes grueling, often beautiful terrain, it takes hikers over the Presidential Range, crossing seven 4,000-foot peaks, all named after U.S. presidents: Madison, Adams, Jefferson, Washington, Monroe, Eisenhower, and Pierce.

What peaks are in the Presidential Traverse?

However, a classic Presidential Traverse includes a specific set of peaks named after U.S. Presidents: Mount Madison (5,367 feet), Mount Adams (5,774 feet), Mount Jefferson (5,712 feet), Mount Washington (6,288 feet), Mount Monroe (5,384 feet), Mount Eisenhower (4,780 feet) and Mount Pierce (4,310 feet).

How do you do the Presidential Traverse?

The official Presidential range begins north to south at Madison peak and then onwards to Adams peak. Hikers will reach Jefferson and Washington summit next, then continue on to the last half at mount Monroe, Eisenhower, Pierce, and finally Jackson.

What should I bring to a Presidential Traverse?

You will need: lightweight wool socks, trekking pants, wicking t-shirt, wicking long sleeve shirt, light down or synthetic jacket, waterproof hard-shell jacket, waterproof hard shell pants (for rainy and windy days), lightweight gloves, warm hat and sunglasses.

Where can I sleep before Presidential Traverse?

Major Landmarks, Campsites, and Huts.

  • Randolph Mountain Club’s Crag Camp Cabin.
  • The Shelter at The RMC’s Perch.
  • AMC Lake of the Clouds Hut, White Mountains.
  • Inside the AMC Mizpah Hut.
  • AMC Shapleigh Bunk House Interior.

    • How long does it take to do a Presidential Traverse?

    A hiker completing a Presidential Traverse will have summited seven of New Hampshire’s highest and hairiest peaks (or more, depending on one’s definition of the route), covering from 19–23 miles in the process. It is typically completed in two or three days.

    Can you hike the Presidential Traverse in one day?

    The Presidential Traverse is an excellent and well-traveled hike of some of New Hampshire’s highest peaks all located in the White Mountains- almost all at maximum exposure. This trip is not for the faint of heart and not to be attempted in just one day, but it can be done with the right preparation.

    How long does the Presidential Traverse take per day?

    Generally, experienced, fit hikers can complete the Traverse in 12 to 14 hours, while it can take about 18 to 20 for those less fit. The route is most often traveled from north to south to get the majority of elevation gains over early.

    What mountains are part of the Presidential Range?

    The Presidential Range is a mountain range located in the White Mountains of the U.S. state of New Hampshire….Montalban Ridge:

    • Mount Isolation (4,004 ft)*
    • Mount Davis (3,819 ft)
    • Stairs Mountain (3,463 ft)
    • Mount Resolution (3,415 ft)