Linda on the summit of Mt Adams with a big smile and thumbs up. On her head is a hat from the Mountain Wanderer. (We want one, too.)
As per our plan the duo started on the west end ascending the spectacular Caps Ridge Trail. Starting here was no accident. One begins at an elevation of just over 3000′ so that removes some of the heavy lifting. Moreover, the two were rewarded early for their efforts reaching treeline in just over a mile allowing for views early on — not to mention all the fun scrambles that trail is known for. Not many routes in the Presidentials deliver so much, so quickly.
The exit route, as planned, was via the Daniel Webster Scout Trail so as to maximize the alpine experience without repeating any steps — and being that this is the shortest, most direct way to do this. Due to the parking situation on the exit end, however, Jean opted to change up the plan making Watson Path the initial descent route. As some know, this is a demanding, leg burning trail that never gives in on the way up, but it was a good choice for the exit adding mere tenths of mileage and a only hundred feet or so of gain to the overall numbers. As a result on the driving end they saved a good ten minutes and some hassles with parking.
Feedback received from both Linda and Jean verified that this is indeed punishing terrain that can inspire feelings of awe, feelings of insignificance and loneliness, and even some fear on those particularly trying days. A blood, sweat, and tears route, but those may refer to tears of joy. On this hike, we were told, both Guide and guest felt it on their knees toward the end. At the end of the day, though, the satisfaction and sense of accomplishment were stronger than ever. In a few days the muscles will relax and eventually forget, but the mind memories of this majestic place should last and last. Linda commented that she really enjoyed the trip — and everything she has done with Redline Guiding. She also commented that she has really enjoyed all of our guides thus far. Specifically she wrote:
Thanks again! Your guides are great and I’m glad and that I chose Redline Guiding for those three hikes that I had the most anxiety about! [Referring to Jean] She’s easy to talk to and interesting. We had a great time. I really like her. The weather was great and the hike was great. I’m glad I had a guide because with all the cairns and all the rocks I would’ve been so confused! —Linda
It should be noted that this trip was extra special for Linda as she is working on completing her New Hampshire 48 4000-footers and these three, Jefferson, Adams, and Madison were numbers 41, 42, and 43 for her, respectively. Those three tough ones are now out of the way. Way to go, Linda!
Jean wasn’t able to take photos, but thankfully Linda is a photographer and was kind enough to allow us use of her photos for this posting. Thank you very much, Linda. These are terrific!
Caps Ridge Trail is pretty from the start and gets better as it climbs higher.
Before long they are above treeline looking back at the 900 feet they just gained.
Turning here they make their way directly for the Jefferson summit. Right now they are working hard but happy.
Before long they summit Jefferson then begin making their way toward Mt Adams (main summit is far right).
After summiting Mt Adams (see inset photo at top of page) they make their way toward Madison, Jean leading the way.
That was easy. After stopping at the hut for a nice break, the Madison summit was finally in their grasps.
Madison is number forty-three and is done. Only five mountains are left! Congratulations to you!
Jean decides Watson Path will work better for the descent, with very few and minor negatives.
As they approach the Appalachia trailhead they pass many of the lovely falls enroute.
Congratulations on completing this wicked traverse, Linda, and getting that much closer to finishing your list. And, Jean, good job on your first lead with us. Well done on the decision-making and leadership.