How to Plan a Trip to the White Mountain National Forest

The White Mountain National Forest, located in New Hampshire, is full of amazing views and recreational opportunities for everyone from families to advanced backcountry hikers. The Appalachian Trail runs through the White Mountain National Forest, providing miles of beautiful hiking trails. There are also several “huts” staffed by the Appalachian Mountain Club that provide overnight lodging and meals. If you are planning a trip soon, you should plan on visiting the White Mountain National Forest. When you plan a trip to White Mountain National Forest, you are sure to enjoy activities such as: hiking, camping, swimming, unique lodging in the huts, and more.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Accommodations
   
   Decide how much money you want to budget for your accommodations. When planning a trip to the White Mountain National Forest, there is a wide range of accommodations to choose between. Depending on your budget, you can bring a tent and camp, stay at a motel or hotel in one of the many towns in northern New Hampshire, rent a Forest Service cabin, or visit one of several Appalachian Mountain Club huts. The huts provide bunk-beds with wool blankets, dinner the day you arrive and breakfast the morning before you leave, bathroom facilities, and entertainment provided by your hosts. If you plan on staying at a hut, make your room reservations ahead of time to secure your lodging.

2. Appalachian Trail
   
   The Appalachian Trail winds through the eastern United States, from Maine to Georgia, and a portion of the trail passes through the White Mountain National Forest. If you plan to follow the Appalachian Trail, you will be able to stay at several of the Appalachian Mountain Club huts along the way. This way you can enjoy backcountry hiking, without needing to carry tents and extra camping gear.

3. Outdoor Activities
   
   Plan out what activities you want to do during your trip to the White Mountain National Forest. You can hike, fish, explore the visitor centers, spend a few nights at the huts, visit the small towns of rural, northern New Hampshire, sample fresh cheese from a dairy farm, taste sweet maple syrup from a local sugarbush, and much more.

4. Operating Season
   
   If you plan on staying at a hut, check the Appalachian Mountain Club website to find out when each hut is open, as each hut has a unique seasonal schedule. You can also contact the Forest Service ranger stations throughout the White Mountain National Forest for local conditions and information.

5. Additional Information
   
   Look online and in books for additional information as you plan your trip to the White Mountain National Forest. See the Resources section below for links to additional information.

Resources

• The White Mountains Guide Book
• AMC White Mountain Guide, 28th: Hiking trails in the White Mountain National Forest
• White Mountain National Forest
• Appalachian Mountain Club

[GreenMomma]

on 3/10/2009 Another great place I can't wait to check out!