Seth and I have been hiking for more than 25 years. In fact, we first met when we were both working at a mountaineering shop in Manchester. By then he had hiked the NH four thousand footers a few times, and several in winter. I didn’t hike “the list”, but I enjoyed hiking peaks that offered a nice view.
Gear was different then – much heavier and bulkier than the gear we have now. The one thing that hasn’t changed is the need to plan ahead for a safe hike.
We have a routine we usually go through when we are planning a long hike. For us, “long” hikes mean the NH four thousand footers which we are working on with the kids. Here’s a run down of what we typically do to prepare. If you’re new to hiking and looking for planning tips, use this as a reference and talk to others as well. They may have other tips to offer.
Consult the AMC Guide
Now in the 30th edition and in print for 110 years, the White Mountain Guide is a must-have resource for hiking in the White Mountains. The trail descriptions and maps will help you get an idea of what to expect before you hit the trail.
AllTrails
Once we have a mountain in mind, I like to refer to the AllTrails website. User generated content provides recent updates on trail conditions and photos. If you’re lucky someone will have posted a very recent review letting you know if the trails are wet, slick, etc. This is helpful in early summer when spring melt can make the trails pretty sloppy.
Weather
It’s important to check the weather, multiple times. The weather in the White Mountains changes frequently and you need to be prepared. We use Weather.com for a general idea, and once we know it’s not a total washout day, we’ll look at Mountain Weather for the mountain reports. It’s important to check the low and the high temps at both the low and high elevations. The Mount Washington Observatory also posts weather updates. We check right down to the morning of our hike departure because the weather can change that quickly.
What to Pack
There are many lists out there that give suggestions on what to pack. The AMC has a really thorough Ten Essentials list. It’s worth reviewing before each hike. We made our own list which is laminated and kept with our day hiking gear bin. Along with this great AMC list, here are a few gear notes worth passing along:
- Hydration – We like using water bladders in our packs. The kids have 1.5 liters, mine is 2.5 liters and Seth’s is 3 liter. We also carry an energy drink, usually Vitamin Water. We’re going to upgrade to larger water bladders for the kids next summer. We also have a water filter that we use for overnight backpacking and really long hikes. If you’re relying on this, you need to be sure there is a flowing water source on your hike.
Seth teaching our daughter how to use the water filter.
- Footwear – Don’t skimp on boots, especially for the kids. We prefer boots that are waterproof and offer ankle protection. We’ve had good luck with the Karrimor brand at EMS and also leather boots from Timberland. Whichever you get, be sure they’re broken in before hitting the trail. There’s nothing worse than sore feet, especially on the descent. Speaking of descent, be sure the boots are tight enough so their toes are not smashing into the front of the boot when they’re hiking down the mountain.
- Socks – Say NO cotton socks. Quality, synthetic socks are as important as good boots. There are lots of good brands, just be sure they are taller than your boots and NOT cotton. Pack an extra pair incase you take a wrong step on a river crossing.
- Trekking Poles – I like to use trekking poles. I didn’t always like them, but now that I’m older I find they help preserve my knees. We usually bring the poles for the kids too, but they don’t always use them.
- Backpack – A comfortable backpack makes a big difference. It’s a good idea to go to a local hiking shop to get properly fitted. They should load the pack with weights and adjust the straps to ensure a good fit. Our kids are both due for day pack upgrades (Santa?). All four of us have Osprey overnight packs which we love.
- Food – Swedish fish and sour patch kids are mandatory for our kids. The kids carry their own food, including the candy. We also pack apples, bananas, chips, trail mix, sandwiches, etc. You don’t want to run out of fuel when you’re on a long hike. Pack a yummy lunch if you plan to eat at the summit. For me, there is nothing better than sitting down with a delicious sandwich and chips when I get to the summit. Recently I packed an Italian sub (with pickles) and it was so, so good after the strenuous hike up Mount Willey.
- First Aid – Bring bandaids. A common ouchie when we first started hiking with the kids was cuts and scrapes on the palms and heels of the hands from trips and falls. They don’t quite get that they need to look down when they’re walking around rocks and roots. Nowadays we’re mostly dealing with blisters or itchy bug bites. We bring a hiker first aid kit every time.
Patience
It’s not a race, or it shouldn’t be anyway. One way to stomp out your dream of an idyllic family hike is to push the kids too much. Plan to stop for breaks, a lot of breaks at first. Remember this is supposed to be a fun experience, not boot camp. I estimate one hour per mile for our long hikes. This accounts for rest breaks, lunch break, view breaks, etc.
Celebration
We go over the top congratulating the kids on their accomplishment of a big hike. It’s not easy, and they should feel pretty awesome.
We got this great reclaimed wooden NH sign where we can add our NH 48 hikes once completed. The kids love adding their latest hikes to the sign when we get home.
Hopefully these tips can help you as you prepare for your family adventures. Now get out there and travel beyond the walls.
