A new guest reached out to us looking to do a fall ascent of our beloved Mt Washington via the Ammonoosuc Ravine Trail. She had experienced the mountain previously a few years ago and was guided on the Winter Route of the Lion Head Trail. This time she was looking for the beauty inherent with this season — and she got the goods on that front. What she wasn’t expecting, however, is how rugged the trails can be without all that wonderful snow. The pace slowed as a result.
Redline Guide Eric Hansen had set a turnaround time for safety reasons, but upon reaching the boarded up Lakes of the Clouds hut there was still time to make it and he suggested they continue onward, at least for a bit. Our guest agreed and they proceeded toward the summit. It was apparent, however, that there would be no views from the top and the “cone” was socked in. That fact, coupled with an approaching deadline, coupled with the slower pace, and coupled with a weariness setting in, sealed the deal and the team turned around heading back the way they came. You might think that this was a huge disappointment to our guest, but you would be wrong. She loved the experience, thought Eric did a terrific job, and she has no regrets whatsoever. After the hike she did comment, though. “It’s easier in winter.”
