On Tuesday we took a hike that was both the best hike I've ever taken, and the worst hike I've ever taken. We had driven from Hancock Campground to a trail parking lot that was across from Lafayette Campground in New Hampshire. The plan was to just putz around the easy hike/bike path that runs through Franconia Notch and The Basin along I93 north of Lincoln. It was about 9:00 a.m., and while I was putting on my boots, Check talked to a couple who were heading out on a nine-mile loop that was supposed to be one of the most beautiful hikes in the area. We've been easily doing ten-mile hikes lately, usually completing them in three to four hours, so we thought "Great! We'll knock this sucker out before lunch!" So without any further research into what was coming, we headed out. Big mistake.
It was a warm day, so we were dressed in shorts and tee-shirts, boots and hiking poles. Check carried a pack with three bottles of water and two rain ponchos. And that was it. By the time we got back to Weepy at 7:30 p.m. - yes, ten and a half hours later - we'd hiked 13 miles, thanks to a missed trail turn-off, and climbed and descended over 2700 feet. Whew. The loop consists of Falling Water Trail, a section of the Greenleaf Appalachian Trail, and Old Bridle Path Trail, and was the most difficult and technical hiking I've ever done. It was also gorgeous. Of course, I'd have enjoyed it more than I did if I'd been better prepared for what was coming, both mentally and with food, more water and a jacket.
Falling Water Trail was one breathtaking waterfall after another
Falling Water Trail
Falling Water Trail
Falling Water Trail
Finally to the top. We take the AT along the ridge for 3 miles (or 5 if you miss your turnoff)
Check is pointing to Greanleaf Hut, our destination along the AT before our descent back to the parking lot
Greenleaf Hut on the Appalachian Trail
I didn't get any pictures along the Old Bridle Path Trail, but most of it was a pretty steep and rocky trip that was hard on our old knees. We were past hungry and pretty exhausted when we got back, but not sorry that we went. Next time I think we'll be more careful about what we're getting into!