Appalachian Trail Hut-to-Hut Highlights

9 days / 8 nights

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Explore the White Mountains' heart on the highlight section of the Appalachian Trail, with breathtaking vistas and unique hut-to-hut accommodations.

Starting point

Lafayette Campground Trailhead

Finish point

Nineteen Mile Brook Trailhead

Season

May - September

Technical level

5/5

Fitness level

5/5

Tour type

Hut-to-Hut

Explore the White Mountains' heart on the highlight section of the Appalachian Trail, with breathtaking vistas and unique hut-to-hut accommodations.

from:

1.790 €

/person

Self guided

From:

1.790 €/person

Send an inquiry

Samo

Travel Expert

Book a call

Explore the White Mountains' heart on the highlight section of the Appalachian Trail, with breathtaking vistas and unique hut-to-hut accommodations.

Starting point

Lafayette Campground Trailhead

Finish point

Nineteen Mile Brook Trailhead

Season

May - September

Technical level

5/5

Fitness level

5/5

Tour type

Hut-to-Hut

Traverse the rugged beauty of the White Mountains
Stand atop the Presidential Peaks, experiencing unparalleled vistas
Discover the serenity of high-mountain AMC huts
Hike Franconia Ridge for panoramic views of New England’s wilderness
Cross paths with history at Mount Washington

Itinerary of the trip

Your adventure in the White Mountains begins with a shuttle transfer to the Lafayette Campground Trailhead, where you begin hiking by taking a path through the woods uphill. As you climb out of the woods, you’ll start noticing the first sweeping views of Franconia Notch. You’ll follow the scenic Franconia Ridge to the Greenleaf Hut, where you will conclude your first shorter day on the trail.

Hiking

2.8 miles and 2450 feet of elevation gain

Gallery

The first challenging day follows today. First, you’ll ascend to the summit of Mount Lafayette and descend to the other side, following the rock cairns that mark the trail. The path winds up and down before finally climbing toward Mount Garfield. You can take a minute to enjoy the views before making the final descent to the other side and following the remainder of an undulating trail to the warm embrace of the Galehead Hut.

Hiking

6.7 miles and 3040 feet of elevation gain / 3460 feet of elevation loss

Gallery

Compared to yesterday’s, today’s stage is less taxing. After the initial climb up the slopes of the South Twin Mountain, where you’ll enjoy open views of the Galehead Hut, you’ll begin a long and gradual descent on a pleasant footpath that winds in and out of the trees. The area surrounding the Zealand Falls Hut includes some bogs, where boardwalks allow you to cross them safely. You’ll reach the hut after crossing the stream and some smaller waterfalls.

Hiking

6.2 miles and 1820 feet of elevation gain / 2950 feet of elevation loss

Gallery

Another long day awaits (it can be broken apart in two if needed). First, the trail ascends gradually and then more steeply toward the saddle between Mount Field and Mount Tom. After that, a steep descent to the AMC Highland Center follows. Once you reach the valley, you can get lunch before making the final climb to Mizpah Spring Hut. If you wish to have it easier, we can also book an additional night at AMC Highland Center and lengthen the tour for one day.

Hiking

7.7 miles and 3300 feet of elevation gain / 2110 feet of elevation gain

Gallery

Today, you’ll follow the path that winds across the Presidential Peaks, starting with Mount Pierce and followed by Mount Eisenhower and Mount Monroe. The stage is shorter and less demanding than the last three, but you’ll constantly be ascending, albeit gradually. You’ll have enough time and energy to enjoy sweeping views on all sides before retiring for the night at the picturesque Lakes of the Clouds Hut.

Hiking

4.6 miles and 2100 feet of elevation gain / 860 feet of elevation loss

Gallery

You’ll wake up to the stunning scenery of the Lakes of the Clouds. The first order of the day is hiking up to the summit of Mount Washington, the highest summit in the northeast US, where you’ll find a weather station, a visitor center, a museum, and a gift shop. After that, you’ll descend to the other side and follow an undulating rocky ridge across Mount Clay, Jefferson, and Adams before reaching the Madison Springs Hut.

Hiking

7 miles and 3120 feet of elevation gain / 3340 feet of elevation loss

Gallery

There’s a long descent ahead of you today, but you’ll start with a short climb to the nearby Mount Madison, the last presidential peak on the trail. The following downhill section is steep, treacherous, and uneven. The trail is rocky and unforgiving, requiring sure-footedness, especially on tired legs. You’ll also cross several streams and wind through a spruce forest in the last part of the trail before you reach Joe Dodge Lodge at Pinkham Notch.

Hiking

6 miles and 870 feet of elevation gain / 3630 feet of elevation loss

Gallery

Some people decide to finish their journey here, but you can spend an additional two days in the mountains by spending another night at Carter Notch Hut below Wildcat Mountain. The terrain is similarly unforgiving as for most of this route, and there’s a significant climb ahead of you today, even though the stage is short, measuring it in miles. You’ll spend your final night in the White Mountains in Carter Notch Hut.

Hiking

5 miles and 3110 feet of elevation gain / 1850 feet of elevation loss

Gallery

Your last day on the trail is similarly short as the first one, with one exception – this time, descending, not ascending. Nonetheless, you’ll have to remain careful and composed if you don’t want to risk an injury on uneven ground on your last day. After reaching the Nineteen Mile Brook Trailhead, you’ll board a hiker’s shuttle and return to everyday life.

Hiking

3.6 miles and 120 feet of elevation gain / 1940 feet of elevation loss

Gallery

What’s included in the price?

Self-guided

8x accommodation with half-board in AMC Mountain Huts

Tour design and organization

Booklet with detailed itinerary and route instructions

Service and support during your hike

GPS navigation with an easy-to-use app

NOT INCLUDED

Tourist tax

What to bring to the tour

Hiking shoes/boots
25 to 35-liter backpack
Base layer
Sports T-shirts
Hiking shorts
Hiking water-repellent pants
Waterproof jacket
Midlayer
Sports socks and underwear
Leisurewear for evenings

Shade hat/cap
Sunscreen
Sunglasses
Hiking poles
ID card or passport
Snacks
Cash
Water bottles or hydration pack
Toiletries

Discover the Appalachian Trail Hut-to-Hut Highlights, an adventure designed for those who relish a genuine challenge and the chance to connect deeply with the natural world.

This expedition takes you through the heart of the White Mountains, presenting a trail that demands resilience, preparedness, and a deep respect for the wilderness.

The terrain here is as demanding as it is breathtaking, with rocky paths, uneven trails, and stretches that take you far from the comforts of modern life.

This experience is for the adventurous spirit prepared to face the wilderness head-on, navigating through weather that can change at a moment's notice. It's an adventure meant for those ready to embrace the unpredictability of the trail and the satisfaction that comes from conquering it.

Our route takes you through the heart of the White Mountains, including the iconic Presidential Peaks, where the vistas are unparalleled, and the sense of accomplishment is immense. These mountains hold stories of early settlers, historic battles, and the indomitable spirit of nature itself.

To support you on this journey, we book your accommodation in the AMC's huts — basic yet essential havens providing shelter after a day's trek. While these huts are far from luxurious, they offer a unique opportunity to rest and recharge in the heart of the mountains.

Along with securing your nightly stays, we provide a personalized travel booklet, GPS navigation for the trail, and 24/7 support to ensure you're never truly alone out there.

If you're ready to test your limits and experience the unparalleled beauty of the White Mountains and the Presidential Peaks, this is your adventure. Are you prepared to answer the call?

Map

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Frequently Asked Questions

Hut-to-hut hiking allows you to trek from one fully serviced hut to another, traversing wilderness areas without the burden of heavy camping gear. Each hut provides a warm meal and a bed, ensuring comfort amidst the adventure.

Inn-to-inn hiking connects more populated areas, featuring stays in hotels or B&Bs for a less physically demanding journey. It’s ideal for those who prefer scenic walks with the comfort of modern amenities at day’s end.

Our Northern California treks are beginner-friendly, offering comfortable inn-to-inn hikes through scenic landscapes. However, hikes in the White Mountains, Rogue River Canyon, and Yosemite involve more challenging wilderness trails suited for experienced hikers due to their rugged and remote nature.

All our hikes include meals at the start and end of each day, whether you’re staying in huts or hotels/B&Bs. This ensures you start your day energized and end it with a satisfying meal without needing to carry food supplies.

We equip you with a detailed, personalized travel booklet containing all the necessary information for a safe journey, alongside recommendations to enhance your experience. GPS navigation and a user-friendly navigation app are also provided to guide you along your chosen route.

Yes, our self-guided tours are designed for solo adventurers and groups. Enjoy the freedom of hiking at your own pace, supported by our comprehensive guidance and 24/7 assistance.

Luggage transfers are available on our inn-to-inn hikes, where your belongings are transported by vehicle to your next accommodation. However, due to the remote locations of the huts, accessible only by foot, luggage transfer is not feasible for hut-to-hut hikes.

Most huts operate seasonally, typically open during the summer, the ideal time for high mountain hikes. Our Northern California hikes, however, are accessible in spring and fall, offering a wider window for your adventures.

from:

1.790 €

/person

Self guided

From:

1.790 €/person

Send an inquiry

Samo

Travel Expert

Book a call

Ratings & Reviews

5.0 average rating

+11

Birgit Kindler

Verifed customer · 1 year ago

We had a lovely hike today with our guide Klemen. He personalized the tour on our needs and interests, so that we saw places we wouldn't without his experience. The hike was a little bit slippery after the rain from the last days and it went a lot upwards, but it was totally worth it! Thanks again :)

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Claudia Ossa

Verifed customer · 2 years ago

9 day hiking trip including rafting and mountain biking. Sadly the weather didn’t help, we had a lot of rain, but Klemen modified our plans, making it a great experience after all. Klemen is an excellent guide and I highly recommend him!!!

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Ann Swainson

Verifed customer · 9 months ago

Thank you so much for a fantastic trip. It was absolutely stunning, well organised, and a brilliant trip. Special thanks to Jan for his kindness & support on what was a personally challenging trek.

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Robert Backlund

Verifed customer · 9 months ago

Our Guide Luka was amazing! And the three-day hike was a Memory for life, really beautiful. Cant recommend it enough.

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Rebecca Lawson

Verifed customer · 8 months ago

Our 3 day hike had to be rearranged 2/2 weather, so a one day hike was arranged for us. We appreciated the concern about weather and conditions. Our hike was with Matevz, who was a great guide. Very helpful and knowledgable. Would definitely recommend and will be back for a longer hike one day!

Nicole Cocks

Verifed customer · 8 months ago

This trip was organized with every detail considered. Our accommodation, most meals and routes were planned each day which is perfect when the region is unknown and you have not completed a multi-day hike before. We had a great time!