Hut to Hut in the White Mountains
June 15 – June 21, 2008
White Mountain National Forest (WMNF) offers spectacular scenery and is home to an abundance of wildlife.  The White Mountains are known for their majestic slopes, rushing streams, conifer forests and beautiful vistas.  WMNF includes 770,000 acres, of which about 47,000 acres are in Maine and the remaining acreage in New Hampshire.  About 15 percent of this area (115,000 acres) has been designated as Wilderness. The Presidential Range, with its broad plateaus and deeply carved cirques is well known for its abundance of stunning views, severe climate (above treeline) and some challenging terrain.  Climbing from the surrounding valleys to the crest of the Presidential Mountain Range offers hikers the opportunity to experience several interesting and distinct vegetation zones.  These include the northern hardwood forest at the lower elevations, the boreal forest above 2500 - 3000 feet, treeline at 3500 to 4000 feet and the alpine zone (above 4000’).  As treeline is approached, the average size of the trees decreases steadily, due to a more severe climate.  At treeline the stunted trees grow in low mats of tangled branches called krummholz, some of which can be a century old.  The alpine zone, covering over 8 square miles, represents an island of arctic tundra in the temperate zone and is the largest alpine area east of the Rocky Mountains!  Here an abundance of beautiful alpine wildflowers (growing only in this zone) bloom in mid to late June.

WMNF offers spectacular opportunities for hikers to experience scenic waterfalls, tumbling rivers and creeks, wildlife (like moose, Spruce Grouse, porcupine and black bear), alpine wildflowers and outstanding views.  We will pack light and hike from hut to hut in the heart of the Presidential Range of New Hampshire’s White Mountains. Each hut provides a comfortable setting for us to experience the exceptional beauty of the White Mountains firsthand, without having to carry a full backpack.  Each day will bring an exciting, new look into this Appalachian Mountain ecosystem as we hike on the forested trails and above treeline, enjoying incredible mountain vistas.  Part of our trek will follow the famed Appalachian Trail.  Along the way, we will investigate whatever crosses our path and catches our interest.  This will include anything from birds and other wildlife to plant life, as well as animal tracks and traces. Throughout our travels we will find beauty, whether it is in the fine details of nature or the awe-inspiring scenery that surrounds us.  Though our trip includes traversing over some strenuous stretches of trail with steep climbs and few switchbacks, we will take the time needed to have a safe and enjoyable journey.  Our hut-to-hut experience includes hot, hearty dinners and breakfasts.  You won’t go hungry.

June in the White Mountains
One of our highlights of this trip will be to see the alpine wildflowers.   Mid to late June is the peak bloom time for these precious beauties and we will be there to revel in their glory.  What a special treat for us!  Mosquitoes and black flies will be more abundant in the low-lying valleys, but should not be much of a problem at the higher elevations (where we will be most of the time).  Black fly season should be nearing its end.

Weather:
As in most mountainous areas, weather in the White Mountains can be highly changeable and variable. The trick is to expect and be prepared for just about anything.  Summer daytime temperatures in the White Mountains average 66 degrees Fahrenheit with evenings in the 40’s. Higher elevations experience much cooler temperatures during all seasons of the year and in June the daytime temperature can be anywhere from in the 40’s to the 60’s.  Sudden changes in weather conditions are normal. Waterproof rain gear (no ponchos) and layered clothing are essential and a requirement on this trip. And don’t forget a pair of gloves, a warm hat and plenty of sunscreen! Our gear and clothing list will help to prepare you. For more detailed information on weather conditions in WMNF go to :
http://www.outdoors.org/recreation/tripplanner/go/index.cfm