Day Three – On the High Road You know how they say it’s not the destination, it’s the journey? Well, when the destination is White Mountain elevation I can’t always agree. There are few experiences more exhilarating than sitting on a mountaintop above tree line and enjoying the vast expanse of national forest set out in front of you and thinking to yourself, “Wow, look at where I am, at this majestic place, where not everyone gets the privilege of being.”
Need for even more speed, rent a motorcycle or ATV for the day and seriously cover a few miles. Me – no surprise, I am in the woods year round hiking whether I have an hour or a week. All of the innkeepers in
the Valley have their favorite hikes from short and flat to long and crazy hard that they are happy to share. Or stop by the Appalachian Mountain Club or the White Mountains National Forest Service Center (there is one at both ends of the Valley) or pick up a trail map at any convenience store. Ask the locals, preferable those with calluses on their feet and a smile on their face. Easiest walk – Diana’s Bath, but it will be crowded for good reason so go early. Locals can be seen leaving the Bath before breakfast. Puddin’ Pond is also a favorite easy walk.
Top: Hiking Eisenhower and Pierce is a great experience for everyone © Karen Stancik Photography Bottom: Puddin’ Pond from Peaked, an easy impact hike © Karen Stancik Photography
If for any number of reasons, you need some assistance to get there, you can still go. Everyone is welcome regardless of his or her mode of transportation. If you’d rather ride, all of the seven ski areas are happy to oblige. Take the gondola or the chairlift up above the treetops, have lunch at the top and soak in the sunshine and the view. You can ride down or take a quiet hike across the wellmarked mountain trails. Want a bit more excitement on the way down. Ride the mountain coasters or rent a mountain bike at the mountain. The staff will throw it on the lift with you and you can bounce and fly back down on two wheels. You can get to the top of Mt Washington via your own car, an auto road coach or even halfway up in winter via the snow coach. Top: Hiking Eisenhower and Pierce is a great experience for everyone © Karen Stancik Photography Bottom: Resting and enjoying the view from Osceola off the Kanc Hwy © Karen Stancik Photography