A Haunted Hike of Willey Field and Tom

Activity Type: Hiking, Local Walks, & Trail Running | Hiking
Difficulty: 6 - Strenuous
Trip Leader(s): Anthony Wilson, Peter Monnes
Registration Type: Application
Please Click Here to RSVP: https://activities.outdoors.org/a5UVX000001JlXJ
Audience: Adults

Description: Join us for a haunted hike on Halloween. We’ll leave from the Willey House; site of a tragedy. You’ll learn about the eerie circumstances that lead to the death of the family and other White Mountain hauntings. Bring your own stories of the supernatural on trail. Costumes are encouraged as long as they don’t present safety issues or interfere with hiking. This out-and-back hike will plan to summit Mt Willey (4242 ft), Mt Tom (4049 ft) and Mt Field (4269 ft) via the Kendron Flume Trail and the Willey Range Trail for a total distance of 9.8 mi and total elevation gain of 4626 ft. We will aim for a quick average pace of 1.5-2mph.
The hike starts steep up Kendron Flume Trail with some reviews noting poor markings and slippery surfaces. The Willey Range has a section of degraded ladders that will require scramblings so be prepared! While there are viewing spots, these summits are generally in beautiful woods and Willey is known for visiting Canadian Jays. Further trip details will be given to those approved for the hike.
This is a strenuous hike; especially the 4626 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. Before joining, look through the AMC 3-season suggested gear list for this hike. Temps can be cold and we could have snow on the ground so also look through the winter hiking essentials list for what is needed in late October. Because this is posted for late October, participants should also be prepared to bring winter gear if needed including microspikes and winter clothing. (No ice axe or crampons required) Additionally, please be sure to bring:
Durable hiking boots, hiking shoes, or trail running shoes A map of the area Layers of wool or synthetic clothing to adjust for the weather. 2L+ of water, Layers, to keep warm - Puffer, hats, gloves, etc… 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 Wind/rain layers Hiking poles (optional but recommended for descents) Microspikes
**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.

Reminder: Please click the RSVP link above to register!