In this episode, Pug Dog and North Star hike their last hike of 2019 to Lonesome Lake in New Hampshire along the Appalachian Trail. Temperatures were quite cold that day and spikes were absolutely necessary for most of the climbs. Thankfully, the lake was frozen over and provided harrowing opportunities to trek across its solid surface. Lonesome Lake trail in NH is a 3.1 mile trail with a moderate elevation gain of 1,026 feet. It's not technical, and is a great hike for families, many of which we saw when we hiked it on December 29. The trail gains its elevation through gradual switchbacks which can be climbed while enjoying a view of Franconia Ridge to the east. Hiking this trail in winter does require appropriate footwear. Microspikes were necessary a couple weeks ago.
The parking lot is at Lafayette Campground off of 93, and it was extremely icy. The campground is open year round via self-pay, but you'll have to carry your gear from the parking lot.
The hike brings you to Lonesome Lake, which, in the winter, many people choose to hike across, and ends at the Lonesome Lake Hut. This time of year, there was hot water for tea and cocoa, and some help-yourself soup, with pay based on the honor system. There are bathrooms and bunks for sleeping. The hut was quite crowded when we visited.
Be sure to take a photo of the lake on the return hike with the ridge in the background. It's quite beautiful. I would love to do this hike just before sunrise and watch it rise over the lake.
All footage was taped on the Sony a6400 with a 18-135mm 3.5-5.6 OSS lens.
#lonesomelake #appalachiantrail #whitemountains
0 Comments