DATE: Dec 05, 2015 to Dec 05, 2015
Hiking/Walk Whiteface and Passaconaway Loop Hike

Meeting Time: 8:00 AM

Event Coordinator: shep5
Wonalancet, NH
US

Max # People: 12

Trip Guiding / Event Fee: No, I will not be asking participants for money

Difficulty Level: Strenuous

SUMMARY:

Join me for this 11.5-mile hike over the summits of Mts. Whiteface (4020') and Passaconaway (4043').  While these peaks are rather low on the 4000-footer list they offer ample views into the surrounding wilderness and peaks.  On a clear day you will have vistas to the south from Whiteface's ledges, over the Lakes Region and northward to Mt. Washington.  There will be additional views along the ridge and off of Mt. Passaconaway.  We will be hiking the circuit in a clockwise manner...ascending via the Blueberry Ledge Trail to Whiteface and descending off of Passaconaway by way of the Dicey's Mill Trail.  There are moderately steep sections of smooth granite and a few rock scrambles ascending Whiteface, otherwise the trails are modest in grade. 

Total Distance and Elevation Gain:  11.5 miles with approximately 4350 feet in accumulative elevation gain.

Total Time:  9 hours depending on breaks and group's speed. 

Rain or harsh weather may postpone to another date or cancel, as appropriate. 

What to Bring:  Typical fall hiking gear should be appropriate:  convertible hiking pants, good sturdy hiking boots with thick socks, a windbreaker/raingear and extra layers (e.g. fleece)...or winter jacket/parka depending on forecasted conditions.  Also bring along lunch, snacks and plenty of water (at least 2-L).  Optionally, pack sunscreen and anything else that you may require for a day hike.  NOTE:  Pack your headlamp and microspikes, just in case.  If other gear is warranted, this will be discussed on the trip page prior to the activity date. 

Carpooling:  Contact the leader or other participants to organize a ride share. 

Afterwards:  If there is sufficient interest, we will have drinks and/or dinner in the area.

Driving directions to the location and spot to meet at:

From Route I-93, take Exit 24 for US-3/NH-25 towards Ashland/Holderness.  In about 4.5 miles turn left onto NH-113.  Continue for 11.7 miles.  Turn left onto NH-113 E and proceed for another 3.7 miles.  Continue onto NH-113A W/N (Sandwich Road) for 6.7 miles.  Here there will be a right-handed bend in the road...DO NOT CONTINUE...Instead turn left onto Ferncroft Road and the marked trailhead parking lot will be on your right.  This is about 30 miles (44 minutes) from I-93.  Look for a grey Hyundai Elantra. 

For GPS Users:  Ferncroft Road, Tamworth, NH (43.913584,-71.357972).