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Details

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!

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