Outdoor Adventure - Intermediate Mountain Climbing
Registration Now Open!
WHEN: Saturday, April 25, 2020
SCHEDULE & COST: Each trip is unique, but we typically depart campus at 7am and return between 4pm and 8pm. More details will become available as the trip nears, but a hard-and-fast return time is impossible.
Cost: $15 *Please note: six students is the minimum, or this trip will be cancelled. Maximum is 14 students. If you would like to join but have a financial hardship, email the Recreation Coordinator jacon.mayer@wellesley.edu* Lunch is provided.
TRIP AREA: Franconia Notch is one of the most scenic areas in the White Mountains, and the Franconia Ridge one of its most popular hikes. Starting at Lafayette Place, the trail ascends the west ridge of Mt. Lafayette (5,249’), passes the AMC Greenleaf Hut, and continues to the summit of Lafayette. Here it departs the Appalachian Trail and heads south along the iconic ridgeline, summing Mt. Lincoln (5,089’) and Little Haystack along the way, before descending the Falling Waters trail. It is approximately nine miles long and gains about 4,000 vertical feet. N.B.: trip area is dependent on weather and conditions.
PREREQS & LEARNING OUTCOMES: Students will be expected to have some experience with long-duration physical activity prior to the trip. We recommend experience on hikes longer than five hours, and the ability to carry a 25lb pack. Please be advised this trip tackles significant vertical gain. Students will learn basic on-trail navigation, nutrition and hydration skills that will allow them to take on similar hikes without supervision - Students will practice layering techniques for safely staying warm and dry in the backcountry - Students will learn some of the resources for outdoor recreation throughout New England.
EQUIPMENT REQUIRED: Students should bring a variety of layers appropriate to the weather forecast, NO cotton. Hiking boots or trail runners, with gaiters optional. Students should have a backpack large enough for their personal gear and food, a water bottle or two, a hat, gloves and a scarf or neckie, and a headlamp.