DATE: Jun 06, 2020 to Jun 06, 2020
Hiking/Walk North and South Kinsman Hike

Meeting Time: 8:00 AM

Event Coordinator: Gandalf
Franconia, NH
US

Max # People: 10

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

Difficulty Level: Strenuous

SUMMARY:

Join us for this 10 mile up to the summits of the two Kinsmen...North and South (4293' and 4358', respectively)!

We will ascend by way of the Mount Kinsman Trail, which approaches the ridge from the west.  The ridge is only 3.7 miles from this trailhead.  Both of these peaks offer spectacular views.  From North Kinsman there is a ledge which looks northward along the ridge as well eastward over Lonesome Lake and over to the Franconia Ridge.  The more open South Kinsman provides nice views in all directions. 

There will be some snow/ice in the middle of the trail in several spots that will be easily avoidable, nonetheless we still recommend MicroSpikes just in case. For the most part the trail is less steep than the ascent from the east, but there will be a few short steep stretches of trail.  The distance is approximately the same as the eastern ascent and the elevation gain is about 3400-ft.  This hike will take about 8 hours.  

We are keeping the hike at 10 people to make it easier to practice the recommended social distancing of keeping at least 6 feet of distance between everyone.  Also, with the recommended guidance of hiking local during the pandemic, please only sign up if you're currently living in New Hampshire or live within an hour away of the hike.  

What to wear/bring:  You may also want to pack MicroSpikes just in case. Wear clothing suitable for the exposed ledge and summit(s). Bring along plenty of water (at least 2 liters), lunch, snacks, sunscreen, bug spray and anything else you may require for a day hike.

Afterwards:  Everyone is welcome at our house to take showers, drinks on the deck and a home cooked meal. It's $10 for dinner and BYOB. Please let us know when you sign up so we can make sure we have enough food for everyone. 

Lodging Option: Everyone is welcome to spend Friday and/or Saturday night in one of the bunk beds at our house at $25 per night. Linen, blankets, towels and a basic breakfast of bagels/coffee is included. Contact us to RSVP. 

Driving directions to the location and spot to meet at:

As you pass the exit for Lincoln, continue on I-93 N for 16.0 miles.  Take exit 38 toward NH-116 Franconia/Sugar Hill (0.2 mile).  Turn left onto NH-116 South and take this for approximately 5.0 miles.  The trailhead parking will be on the left...just south of the Coppermine Trailhead and Pinestead Lodge.  There is a small sign for the parking area just to the south of the Franconia/Easton town line (you will see a small pond on your left).  Total distance from Lincoln is 21.2 miles (24 minutes).  Look for a blue Toyota Tacoma truck.