Presidential Traverse Hut-to-Hut
Conquer the Presidential Peaks, including the Northeast’s highest summit, Mount Washington
Navigate through the unique alpine tundra above the treeline, where panoramic views unfold at every turn
Experience the iconic AMC high-mountain huts nestled amidst the peaks
Revel in the achievement of summiting all Presidential Peaks in a single journey
Discover the varied terrain of the Presidential Traverse, from rocky ascents to serene descents
Cherish the unparalleled beauty of sunrise and sunset from the summits and huts along this legendary trail
Trek vibrant trails of the Presidential Peaks
Embrace expansive White Mountain panoramas
Discover alpine serenity in the Northeast heights
Reach new heights atop Mount Washington
Witness sunrise on Presidential alpine slopes
Conquer trails where Presidential giants rest
Hike above the clouds in the White Mountains
Navigate rocky ascents to sky-kissing summits
Venture through mists on storied peaks
Itinerary
A shuttle run by the AMC takes you to the Appalachia Trailhead, where the Presidential Traverse begins. The path initially winds through the forest on the lower slopes of Mount Madison. It is rocky and uneven, requiring sure-footedness. As you emerge above the tree line, you’ll be greeted by the typical alpine tundra. Soon after, you’ll reach the first Presidential Peak – Mount Madison. After enjoying the incredible views for some time, you’ll descend to Madison Spring Hut, where you’ll spend the night.
Madison Spring Hut
3.9 miles and 4040 feet of elevation gain / 560 feet of elevation loss
Your crossing of the Presidential Peaks continues today as you ascend Mount Adams and continue towards Mount Jefferson. The path constantly climbs up and down different peaks, thus overcoming a significant altitude difference. Your last climb of the day will take you to the summit of the highest mountain in the northeast of the US, Mount Washington. With an asphalt road and cog railway leading up to its peak, you’ll get a feeling that you left the wild for a while. From there, you’ll only have to descend to Lakes of the Clouds Hut and settle in for the night.
Lakes of the Clouds Hut
7 miles and 3380 feet of elevation gain / 3150 feet of elevation loss
There are still three Presidential Peaks left to conquer, and you’ll traverse them all today. With all of them being lower than the first four, the path mostly runs downhill with some minor climbs. The first of those takes you to the summit of Mount Monroe. From there, the trail descends towards Mount Eisenhower and Mount Pierce before reaching Mizpah Spring Hut with a steep downhill section, where you’ll have to exercise some additional caution.
Mizpah Spring Hut
4.6 miles and 1100 feet of elevation gain / 2320 feet of elevation loss
On your last day, you have two options: either descend from the hut and head straight for the AMC Highland Center at Crawford Notch or continue toward the last two additional peaks on the trail: Mount Jackson and Mount Webster (the other two being Mount Clay and Mount Franklin, which you summited on days 2 and 3 respectively). The path mostly runs downwards, descending along the edge of the Webster Cliffs before concluding at Webster Cliff Trailhead, where you’ll board a shuttle.
5.5 miles and 860 feet of elevation gain / 3400 feet of elevation loss
Self guided
Included in price
Optional Extras
What to bring to the tour
Description
Step into the realm of giants on the Presidential Traverse Hut-to-Hut journey, an experience meticulously designed for those who seek adventure and a piece of American history.
This classic trail adventure focuses on the majesty of the Presidential Peaks, presenting an unparalleled opportunity to traverse the most iconic summits of the White Mountains.
In this adventure, hikers traverse all seven Presidential Peaks and can opt to extend their journey across four additional peaks, fully experiencing the White Mountains’ grandeur.
From the rugged trails of Mount Madison to the legendary heights of Mount Washington, each step of this journey is a testament to the wild, untamed beauty of the Northeast’s alpine wilderness.
The path, marked by rocky and uneven terrain, demands diligence and sure-footedness, offering a genuine challenge that rewards spectacular vistas and a profound sense of accomplishment.
The traverse weaves through the alpine tundra above the treeline, where the expansive views across New England are your constant companion.
Each peak conquered brings its own unique perspective, from the stark beauty of Mount Adams to the inviting slopes of Mount Monroe, Eisenhower, and Pierce, before the descent towards the serene embrace of the AMC huts.
Aligning with the essence of the grand traverse, our support for you remains steadfast. Your accommodations in the AMC huts are booked, ensuring a restful end to each exhilarating day.
The journey is complemented by a personalized travel booklet, GPS navigation assistance, and unwavering 24/7 support, ensuring you’re well-equipped to face the challenges of the trail.
For those ready to embrace the challenge and the beauty of this extraordinary traverse, the Presidential Traverse Hut-to-Hut awaits.
State
Mountain Hut System
AMC Huts
Start planning today!
Things to know
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.
Self-guided
HASSLE-FREE
BOOK WITH CONFIDENCE
TRIED & TESTED ADVENTURES
UNBEATABLE SUPPORT
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