The 48

“The mountains are calling, and I must go” -John Muir

The Famed naturalist’s ubiquitous quote is emblazoned on a host of stickers, patches, and outdoor gear related stuff. Many a hiker hears the same call as he did, myself included.

After hiking locally for a season, I joined a group hike that took me to New Hampshire’s Mount Waumbeck. It was March or early April. I’d done a little hiking in the Ossipees, but nothing of any elevation. When I reached the top of Starr King, even before setting foot on the summit of Waumbeck. I was sold.

The incredible views and trails through the frozen forested landscape captured my heart and mind. Could I get more? I already knew there was a list of fabulous hikes to mountain tops, and the goal was set before I reached the trailhead on my descent.

In 1957 the “official list” of tallest peaks in New Hampshire was accepted by the Appalachian Mountain Club, a formulation assembled by the Adirondack 46ers and New Hampshire 4000 Footers Club. Originally 46 mountains, it was expanded to 48 with the inclusion of Galehead and Bondcliff following USGS surveys in ’75 and ’80. These are not the only 4000 foot peaks. These mountains have a 200 foot prominence over nearby summits that knock them out of contention.

To complete the list, a hiker must ascend and descend on foot-no mechanical conveyance is allowed. ( Skis, snowshoes, sleds are ok.) The mountains can be hiked from the many trails that crisscross the summits, giving hikers a variety of choices and challenges in climbing them all. Some I’ve hiked several times, some just once.

There’s no limit to when they need to be completed. You can take six months, six weeks or a lifetime. Upon completing the mountains in all seasons, you can apply for and receive a patch from the 4000 Footer Club. You could hike them all again in winter for another different patch, and there are several other iterations that could keep you coming back for years!

A simple internet search reveals a plethora of information,more than I could cover in a series of posts.

Most hikes are strenuous, and the trails of the White Mountains are not graded gravel paths for a leisurely day trip. Trails are rugged, with streams, open ledge, and rocks and tree roots. While some peaks are wooded, many are above tree line, and can subject hikers to New England’s fickle weather patterns. Proper preparation is a must.

There are days you struggle. “Why am I doing this?” has lingered in the back of my mind on very cold or hot days, on difficult trails or steep ascents. Always my return to the trailhead is followed by a change in tune. “Let’s do that again” my spirit whispers, and it is back to the maps to plan the next trip.

I completed this list several years ago. I still return to accompany others that are completing the 48, or to hike one in a different season than I have previously.

As with all hike lists, it’s truly the journey that is the most memorable, not the final peak. Perhaps it’s time you decided to start a new adventure. I hope to see you in the mountains soon.