Boston AMC Hiking and Backpacking

Activity Type: Hiking, Local Walks, & Trail Running | Hiking
Difficulty: 6 - Strenuous
Trip Leader(s): Peter Monnes, Sau-Mei Leung
Registration Type: Application
Please Click Here to RSVP: https://activities.outdoors.org/a5UVX0000018xgf
Audience: Everyone

Description: Description: The Franconia Ridge Loop is a stunning and challenging hike in New Hampshire's White Mountains, offering breathtaking views and the chance to summit three peaks: Mount Lafayette (5,260 feet), Mount Lincoln (5,089 feet), and Little Haystack Mountain (4800 feet). The trail features beautiful waterfalls, including Stairs Falls and Cloudland Falls, and offers expansive views from above the treeline along the ridge. The hike includes summiting three major peaks, with Mount Lafayette being the highest outside the Presidential Range. On clear days, you can see as far as Mount Washington and the Presidential Range. The Franconia Ridge Trail provides a spectacular two-mile walk along the ridge, offering panoramic views in all directions. There will be water, snacks, and restrooms available at the AMC Green Leaf hut when we descend from Mount Lafayette. This loop hike begins and ends on Old Bridle Path trailhead parking lot. We will take Falling Waters Trail to the summit of Little Haystack Mountain, then turn left to Franconia Ridge Trail until we reach the summit of Mount Lincoln and Mount Lafayette. We will return from the Greenleaf Trail, reach Eagle Lake and the Greenleaf Hut, then take Old Bridle Path to the parking lot. The hike is 9 miles with 3,825 feet of elevation gain. We will be above tree line and exposed to the elements.
Meeting Time and Place: 8 am, Old Bridle Path trailhead parking lot (across Lafayette Place Campground parking lot)
Physical Fitness Expectations: Participants should be in good physical condition, comfortable with scrambles, slabs, rocky terrain/unsure footing, and should have experience hiking above tree line and feel comfortable hiking on exposed above tree line terrain. To participate in this hike, you should have a recent hike of a similar distance and elevation gain in similar terrain. The pace will be moderate (about 1.5mph) with breaks to enjoy views and rest. All applicants not familiar to the leaders will be phone screened.
Gear Requirements: All participants should prepare themselves for potentially shifting weather conditions by adhering to the recommended 3-season day gear (link below). Participants should bring wind/rain-proof gear, top and bottom, with additional warm layers depending on the weather. ( https://hb.amcboston.org/images/docs/Gear_lists/Spring_Dayhike_gear_list.pdf ).
Weather and Contingency Plans: This trip will proceed unless conditions are unsafe (e.g., severe weather). In the event of dangerous conditions, the trip will be cancelled/modified. The leaders may have an alternate hike (Mt Pemigewasset) or backup date for this trip. Space is limited to 8 participants plus two leaders to comply with leave no trace principles. We will run a waiting list in case of cancellations. Please register early and cancel promptly if you cannot attend so that others may join.
A reminder email with more details will be sent to approved participants a week prior to the hike.

Reminder: Please click the RSVP link above to register!

Activity Type: Hiking, Local Walks, & Trail Running | Hiking
Difficulty: 6 - Strenuous
Trip Leader(s): Patricia Sanchez, Deb Conrady
Registration Type: Application
Please Click Here to RSVP: https://activities.outdoors.org/a5UVX0000015AJ7
Register By: 6/29/2026
Audience: Everyone

Description: Join us for a 2-day / 1-night backpacking adventure along the scenic Wapack Trail, a classic New England ridgeline stretching from southern New Hampshire into Massachusetts. This point-to-point traverse features rolling terrain, exposed ledges, and sweeping views throughout.
Day 1: We will begin at the northern terminus of the Wapack Trail and hike south along the ridgeline toward our campsite at Windblown Campsite. This is a full-value hiking day (12.4 miles) with steady elevation gain spread across multiple climbs. Along the way, we will summit North Pack Monadnock, Pack Monadnock, and Temple Mountain (including Holt Peak), with frequent open ledges and views. We will arrive at Windblown Campsite in the late afternoon, where we will set up camp, prepare dinner, and enjoy a relaxing evening.
Day 2: We will break camp and continue south toward our finish at Mount Watatic. This 9.1-mile day includes a series of smaller peaks—Barrett Mountain, New Ipswich Mountain, Pratt Mountain, and Mount Watatic—connected by classic rolling ridge terrain. After summiting Mount Watatic, we will descend to the trailhead to complete our traverse.
For this trip, hikers must be able to comfortably complete a 12+ mile day carrying a backpack over varied terrain with 2,400–2,700 feet of elevation gain. This is a moderate to strenuous backpacking trip featuring rocky, rooty footing, frequent short climbs, and limited flat terrain, requiring sustained effort over two consecutive days.
Expect a rewarding adventure of scenic ridge hiking, expansive views, and great company along the Wapack Trail.
Required Gear: Participants must come prepared for both full-day hiking with a backpack and overnight backcountry camping.
Hiking essentials Sturdy hiking shoes. Wear moisture-wicking layers and warm clothing appropriate for the temperatures and conditions. Water bottle(s) or Camelbak (carry at least 2 liters of water) Lunch and snacks Raincoat/rain gear Personal first aid kit and medications Sun protection (sunscreen, sunglasses, hat, etc.) Headlamps (bring a spare) Hiking poles recommended (if you use them) Please refer to the AMC three-season gear checklist: https://hb.amcboston.org/images/docs/Gear_lists/Spring_Dayhike_gear_list.pdf
Backpacking & Overnight Gear In addition to the hiking gear listed above, participants must bring gear for overnight backcountry camping at Windblown Campsite. Backpack (50–65L recommended) Tent (some participants will need tents; sharing encouraged) Sleeping bag (recommended ~20–30°F rating) Sleeping pad Extra warm, dry clothes for camp Camp shoes (optional but recommended) Backpacking stove, fuel, and cooking pot (can be shared) Mug/bowl and utensils Meals and snacks for the duration of the trip Water treatment method (filter, tablets, etc.) Toiletries Food & Cooking Participants are expected to provide and prepare their own meals for the duration of the trip. We strongly recommend bringing dehydrated backpacking meals that can be prepared by simply adding boiling water, as they are lightweight, easy to cook, and require minimal cleanup. Backpacking stoves, fuel, and cooking pots can be shared among participants if desired. Here is a helpful resource on planning backpacking meals: https://www.rei.com/learn/expert-advice/planning-menu.html
Please reach out to the leaders with any questions about gear or meal planning.

Reminder: Please click the RSVP link above to register!

Activity Type: Hiking, Local Walks, & Trail Running | Hiking
Difficulty: 4 - Moderate
Trip Leader(s): Michael Glicksman, Elliot Trilling
Registration Type: Application
Please Click Here to RSVP: https://activities.outdoors.org/a5UVX000001A4hh
Register By: 6/30/2026
Audience: Everyone

Description: Join us for a beautiful hike to mountains Welch and Dickey. We will be following the standard counter-clockwise loop starting off at Orris Road. Our hike will be approximately 4.1 miles in length with an elevation gain of about 1800ft. We plan to hike at a steady but relaxed pace (1-1.5mph) that still allows everyone the opportunity to enjoy the beautiful nature around us. We will stop at the two summits to eat lunch and take in the fantastic views. Despite its “Moderate” rating, this is a challenging hike with steep sections over slabs, and a few scrambles.
Gear list: Required: Hiking boots or hiking shoes Multiple layers of non-cotton clothing Rain jacket At least 2 liters of water Lunch and snacks Headlamp and extra batteries Any required personal medications Recommended: Sun protection (sunscreen, sunglasses, hat, etc.) Insect repellent and/or bug net Hand sanitizer Hiking poles (if you use them)
Extra questions: After you submit your registration, we will send you a form with some questions to help get a sense of whether this hike is a good fit for you.
Carpooling: A Google Sheet will be shared with approved participants to offer and request rides for the weekend. Carpooling is good for the environment and is a great way to meet other volunteers! It is up to each person to find their own ride.

Reminder: Please click the RSVP link above to register!

Activity Type: Hiking, Local Walks, & Trail Running | Hiking
Difficulty: 6 - Strenuous
Trip Leader(s): Robert Mackin, Anthony Wilson, Julie Huber, James Robinson
Registration Type: Application
Please Click Here to RSVP: https://activities.outdoors.org/a5UVX00000199oH
Register By: 7/1/2026
Audience: Adults

Description: The Belknaps are a small mountain range overlooking Lake Winnipesaukee in the Lakes Region of New Hampshire. The Belknap Range Traverse is not a small hike. This hike will traverse all 12 summits including Mt. Rowe (1680’), Gunstock Mtn. (2245’), Belknap Mtn. (2382’), Piper Mountain (2024’), Whiteface Mountain (1565’), Mt. Klem (2001’), Mt. Mack (1945’), Mt Rand (1870), West Quarry Mountain (1894), Mt. Anna (1670’), Straightback Mtn. (1890’), and Mt. Major (1786’). The total hike is 18+ miles and 4,875 ft of elevation gain.
This hike is suitable for strong hikers who can maintain a faster than average pace for a distance like this. Our target moving pace is 1.5-2 mph, with a goal of finishing under 12 hours including stops for views and lunch. This is faster than a typical AMC hike. If this describes you, please join us for this traverse and earn your Belknap 12 patch in a single day. You also get breathtaking views of the lakes region and a diverse terrain that includes bald summits and ledges, mossy woods. All the things we love about hiking in New Hampshire.
This is a point to point hike with a short 15 minute drive between Mt Major and MT Rowe. You should be comfortable sharing a short ride with other hikers to our starting point.
Fitness level:This is posted at the highest AMC level of “strenuous”. You will traverse 18+ miles with 4,875 ft of elevation gain. Those seeking to participate in the hike will have recent and comparable hiking experience in the White Mountains or similar mountainous regions and have the high level of physical fitness required to handle the demands of the hike . Please describe in detail your fitness level in the application questions and ensure you are confident of your ability to complete the hike.
Traction: The route includes steep ascents and descents on rocky surfaces that require shoes with good traction . Gear: Before joining, look through the AMC 3 season suggested gear list for this hike. Most important is to bring food, water, sunscreen and a good layering system. Additionally, please be sure to bring:
durable hiking boots / shoes or trailrunners A Map of the area Layers of wool or synthetic clothing to adjust for the weather. 3L+ of water (there is little or no water on the ridge) layers, to keep warm, sunscreen and/or hat for sun protection, Bug spray and/or bug net Lunch and snacks Flashlight or headlamp Hand sanitizer, toilet paper/garbage bag for toilet paper, hygiene supplies A headlamp Clothing to protect you from rain and wind hiking poles (optional but recommended for descents)
**To address unforeseen challenges such as adverse weather, unacceptable trail conditions or excessive crowding, the planned trip destination, activity and/or meeting place and time may be modified. In that event, participants may elect to join in that activity or opt-out. We also reserve the right to skip summits or shorten the hike if needed to accommodate the group.

Reminder: Please click the RSVP link above to register!