How hard is the Presidential Traverse?
It is typically completed in two or three days. A single-day traverse, in even the best weather, is quite difficult, requiring months of training. Attempting to run portions of the trail takes that difficulty up another notch, as the terrain is some of the rockiest in the East—a minefield of potential ankle injuries.
Where does the Presidential Traverse start and end?
The basic Presidential Traverse begins from a trailhead on U.S. Route 2 or at the Dolly Copp Campground at the northern end of the Presidentials, crosses the great ridge of the range and ends in Crawford Notch at its southern terminus, or vice versa.
How do I train for the Presidential Traverse?
Instead, start planning months early for your traverse, thinking of each week leading up to the Presi as a discrete training block. During the course of each week you’ll want to do a longer hike as well as several shorter training sessions (ideally some gym and some actual hiking).
Can you camp on the Presidential Range?
There are three types of camping and lodging options available near the Presidential Traverse Route without making a major descent below treeline: tent sites, self-service shelters and cabins, and full-service cabins.
Can you do the Presidential Traverse in a day?
You will be either starting or ending your day in the dark. We completed the traverse in about 15.5 hours with around 2 hours of breaks total. Some people can complete it in 12 hours, some people will take 18+ hours. It depends on your skill level, so be realistic with your start time.
Which way do you hike the Presidential Traverse?
Doing the Presidential Traverse from north to south is easier, as it gets the majority of the elevation gain out of the way early in the trip, while leaving smoother, easier trails for the end. If you have two cars, leave one at each trailhead.
What should I bring to a Presidential Traverse?
You will need: lightweight wool socks, trekking pants, wicking t-shirt, wicking long sleeve shirt, light down or synthetic jacket, waterproof hard-shell jacket, waterproof hard shell pants (for rainy and windy days), lightweight gloves, warm hat and sunglasses.
How many hours is the Presidential Traverse?
Generally considered a challenging route, it takes an average of 14 h 19 min to complete. This is a very popular area for backpacking, camping, and hiking, so you’ll likely encounter other people while exploring.
How do I prepare for the Presidential Traverse?
That is what brought me to the Presidential Traverse Trail in New Hampshire….Some of the packing tips I have found include the following:
- Hat and mittens.
- Rain gear.
- Sun Protection.
- Whistle.
- Compass and maps.
- First aid kit.
- Trekking poles.
- Make sure your phone is charged.
Where do you start the Presidential Traverse?
Where & When to Do the Presidential Traverse Hike. Hikers have two options for a starting point: the northern terminus, at the base of Mount Madison, and the southern terminus, beginning at the Highland Center at Crawford Notch.