Jefferson, Their First President

The First President (and first 4000-footer) for returning guests Rene and Corina, that is. They had trained with us at an earlier date and decided they wanted to put some of those new skills to use. They requested Mt Jefferson, specifically, and in consideration of their ability, fitness, and amazing weather, we were eager to deliver the goods. We put Redline Guide Ken Hodges on this mission, and here’s what he reported:

On Sunday, March 19th — the last full day of winter — I had the pleasure to guide Rene and his niece Corina to the summit of Mt Jefferson (5712′). This was the first official NH 4000-footer for both of them and conditions could not have been better. We met at the Cog Railway Base Station and we were on the Jewell Trail by 9:00 am. Temps were in the mid-teens to start, with a barely discernible breeze. That along with almost blue bird skies, made the day perfect for winter hiking. The trail had been broken out the day before which made the hiking easier. An hour in we picked a rest spot with a view and enjoyed a quick snack of sushi and trail food before pushing on. Just below the junction of the Gulfside Trail we switched over to crampons and with smiles on our faces set out for Jefferson. Just above the junction of Sphinx Trail we ran into three other groups, one ascending and two heading down. We chatted with them for awhile and continued upward, getting to the summit and enjoying a well deserved and leisurely lunch around 1:30 pm. With broad smiles on our faces we left the summit and took our time descending back the way we came. It was a great hike to celebrate the end of winter. –Ken Hodges

 

Sounds like it was a great time (no doubt). Here are some photos…