September 5th: Into the White Mountains

I was not home today when Jonathan called atop a summit in the White Mountains; he talked with Steve. I was able to glean few details on which to report. I did, however, look up some information about the Whites from the Appalachian Trail companion book. The White Mountains stretch for 117 miles from Glencliff, New Hampshire to the New Hampshire/Maine border. It is beautiful, rugged and dramatic and attracts more backcountry hikers than any other section of the trail. The ascents and descents are steep, requiring use of hands and at times the seat of your pants. One should not plan on accomplishing more than 5-8 miles a day here. Much of the trail is above the timberline where temperatures can change very quickly and snow, ice and sleet are possible year round. It is this severe weather that prevents trees from growing on these high ridges. High winds and dense fog are common. Because of the rapidly changing weather above the tree line, one must carry winter gear here even in the middle of summer. Each year, people die on the Whites due to unpreparedness and carelessness. Our hikers are prepared; let's hope they are also careful. ~ Amy