AMC Hut-to-Hut Hike (NH)

Since 1888 AMC (Appalachian Mountain Club) has managed backcountry huts on the high peaks of New Hampshire’s iconic White Mountain National Forest. Each of our eight huts is accessible only on foot and connected by the famed Appalachian Trail. Guests stay overnight in warm bunks and enjoy home-cooked meals from the Hut “Croo,” friendly staff living and working in the mountains. Join the tradition and explore the backcountry without the heavy pack.

AMC’s huts bustle with activity while being surrounded by remote forests, glacial lakes, and rocky summits. By day they’re information centers where hikers rest, grab a snack, and check weather conditions. At night guests eat family-style dinners and sleep in bunkrooms with mattresses and blankets included.

Accessible only by foot, each of AMC’s eight huts provide rustic hospitality to overnight guests through home-cooked dinners and breakfasts, comfortable bunks, cold-running water, and bathroom facilities. While all eight huts offer unmatched scenery in the backcountry, their elevation and distance from a trailhead vary. That means there’s a hut for you, whether you’re an experienced hiker or just getting started.

For this trip, we'll be hiking in the Pemigewasset Range starting at the Webster Cliff/Appalachian Trail Trailheads and head south on the AT for three nights. Our first stop is Zealand Falls Hut (6/10) followed by Galehead (6/11) and then, Greenleaf Hut (6/12). On our last day, we get off at the Old Bridle Path Trailhead (Franconia Notch, NH). Total distance: 23 miles. No more than 6-7 miles between huts.

Hiking in the White Mountains can be difficult. Instead of having switchbacks like many other trails, these trails just seem to go straight up the mountainside. On top of that, rocks and boulders are found all over the trail. Sometimes you're hopping from one boulder to another for the next mile or two. Trekking poles are a must to keep your balance and keep you safe. Plan on doing no more than 1-2 miles per hour.

Disclaimer: GetHiking Charlottesville Organizers are not professional guides. Expect the same risks and take the same precautions you would take if you were hiking alone. With your RSVP, you agree with this disclaimer.

Weather Forecast: TBD

Notes:

1. Reference guide: https://www.outdoors.org/ and https://www.outdoors.org/destinations/huts/. Please go online and sign-up for an annual membership before contacting AMC reservation (603-466-2727) to book this trip. You will get 20% off and multiday discount on lodging.
2. Suggested packing list:
   a. Water and 3 lunches/snacks.
   b. Trekking poles and sturdy hiking boots.
   c. Cool/wet-weather gear, hat, whistle, gloves.
   d. Change of footwear/clothes, toiletry, and medication for 3 nights.
3. A tentative itinerary or cancellation notice will be posted 3 weeks before the trip. I have a reservation at the Highland Center Lodge for June 9, 2025.