Autumn Traverse over the Kinsmans and Bald Peak
Details
Activity Type: Hiking, Local Walks, & Trail Running | Hiking
Difficulty: 6 - Strenuous
Trip Leader(s): Keith Watling, Sabrina Hawthorne
Registration Type: Registration
Please Click Here to RSVP: https://activities.outdoors.org/a5UVX000001EtLp
Register By: 9/24/2026
Audience: Adults
Description: Enjoy a traverse over Kinsman Ridge Trail including two of the four thousand footers, North (4293 ft) and South Kinsman (4358 ft ) and a peak on the 52 “with a view” list, Bald Peak (2465 ft). This scenic and rugged route highlights Harrington Pond, cascades, waterfalls, and panoramic views of Franconia Notch. The hike will include a short car spot between trailheads before and after the hike.
This traverse hike is about 11.4 miles and about 3600 feet in elevation gain. The route contains rocky, steep, uneven terrain, boulder scrambles, open ledges, and several water crossings. The pace will be moderate, slower on the ascent and faster on the smoother or flatter sections. Participants should be comfortable with steep rock scrambling, open ledges, and exposed rock slabs. We will hike as a group and expect the hike could take 8-9 hours depending on trail and weather conditions.
Registrants should expect a phone call from one of the leaders to discuss hiking experience, fitness, and required gear. Participants should have comfortably completed recent comparable hikes with at least two thirds of the elevation gain and distance of this hike and able to hold a consistent pace with minimal breaks. Hikers must have trail running shoes or hiking boots, raingear, layered non-cotton clothing, trail food/lunch, a headlight, and a minimum of 2 liters of water.
Please see the 3-season gear list for reference: https://hb.amcboston.org/images/docs/Gear_lists/Spring_Dayhike_gear_list.pdf
The planned route may be modified or cancelled by the leader before or during the hike due to unforeseen challenges such as adverse weather or unacceptable trail conditions.
Reminder: Please click the RSVP link above to register!