The Presidential Traverse Trail is a series of peaks that make up the Presidential Range of the White Mountains, New Hampshire. Covering roughly 23 miles and rising over 9,000 feet in elevation, this trek is a testament to the rugged beauty of the Northeastern U.S. landscapes. Each step along the Presidential Traverse Hike offers not only a physical challenge but also panoramic vistas that reward the daring.
The range of mountains, located within the White Mountains of New Hampshire is part of the White Mountain National Forest.
Let’s make one thing clear from the get-go, The Presidential Traverse trail, or should we say mountain range, is absolutely no joke.
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This is a serious undertaking for the very experienced climbers, you will see why as we explain, but don’t think about doing this as a novice hiker.
It should be clear that the ‘Presidential Traverse’ is nicknamed to cover quite a few mountains named after our illustrious list of presidents.
Can you handle easy climbs for non-technical hikers which may not be a huge undertaking, or is this something for you to set upon your horizon and work towards?
In this article, we will cover some general information about this Presidential Traverse trail hike. So you can figure out if Presidential Traverse is ultimately for you.
Happy Hiking!
The History of the Presidential Traverse
The idea of the Presidential Traverse originated in the early 20th century, inspired by the majestic and daunting nature of the Presidential Range. This range includes peaks named after U.S. Presidents such as Washington, Adams, Jefferson, and Madison, among others. The tradition of naming these peaks began in the early 1820s, starting with Mount Washington, named after George Washington, the first President of the United States.
The subsequent naming of surrounding peaks followed, with each new discovery or notable ascent adding layers to the region’s historical tapestry.
An Overview
This is one of the most serious hiking in New Hampshire and is certainly up there with the most arduous terrains in the US.
The hike is nearly 23 miles long if you choose to complete it all, the elevation gain can reach 9000 feet which is serious.
The mountain range exhibits some challenging rock hiking that can be hard for beginners. Additionally, its super-exposed trails above the treeline can make foot placement important and tricky.
Beyond the physical proficiency the hike demands, there are logistical issues that hikers also have to deal with.
Preparing for the Presidential Traverse Hike
At 23 miles this can take up to four days depending on your ability. However, more experienced climbers have managed to do it in the day.
Completing this over a few days requires detailed advance planning. From sourcing enough food to dealing with changing weather conditions. What’s more, the mental toll can all be a serious factor worth preparing for.
Choosing the Best Time for Your Adventure
The Presidential Traverse Hike is best undertaken from late spring to early fall, when the weather conditions are most favorable and the paths are clear of snow and ice.
What Should You Bring?
Thorough preparation is crucial. Key items include durable hiking boots, weather-appropriate attire, a reliable map, and ample supplies of water and snacks. The Presidential Traverse Trail requires respect for the unpredictable mountain weather and solid navigation skills. Always carry a GPS and a physical map to stay oriented.
- Navigation tools: GPS device, compass, and a detailed map of the area.
- Water supply: Hydration system (like a water bladder) or water bottles, plus a water treatment method (filter or purification tablets).
- Food: Enough high-energy, non-perishable food items for the duration of the hike, plus an extra day’s supply.
- Clothing: Weather-appropriate clothing (layers for cold, breathable for heat), including a moisture-wicking base layer, an insulating layer, and a waterproof outer layer.
- Safety items: First aid kit, whistle, multi-tool, and a headlamp with extra batteries.
- Sun protection: Sunglasses, sunscreen, and a sun hat.
- Fire: Matches or a lighter stored in a waterproof container, and a small, portable stove if cooking is planned.
- Shelter: In addition to a tent or bivy sack, include a ground tarp and a sleeping bag suitable for the temperature.
- Insect protection: Insect repellent and a head net if traveling in buggy areas.
- Personal items: Toiletries, quick-dry towel, and toilet paper.
- Trash bags: For carrying out trash and keeping gear dry.
- Emergency shelter: Space blanket or emergency bivvy.
- Repair kit: Duct tape, gear repair patches, and a sewing kit.
- Communication: Cell phone in a waterproof case or a satellite phone for areas without cell service.
Essential Gear to Carry
Preparing for the Presidential Traverse Hike requires meticulous planning, especially when it comes to selecting the right gear. Your choice of shelter can make a significant difference in comfort and safety during the hike.
Choosing the Right Shelter: Bivy Sack vs Tent
While tents are a popular choice, bivy sacks offer a lightweight alternative that might be suitable for solo hikers looking to minimize their pack weight. Each has its benefits and drawbacks, depending on the season and personal preferences. For a detailed comparison, check out our in-depth analysis on bivy sack versus tent.
Seasonal Shelter Needs: 3 Season vs 4 Season Tent Differences
The choice between a 3 season and a 4 season tent is crucial depending on the time of year you plan to hike. A 3 season tent is generally lighter and designed for milder conditions, while a 4 season tent is built to withstand harsher weather. To better understand these differences and choose the right tent for your hike, explore our detailed comparison of choosing between 3-season and 4-season tents.
The Route
This is a 23-mile route, so there is a lot to cover. Most people walk the trail from north to south, following the succession of peaks as the main route. So in the most simple terms, the route can be listed as follows:
- Mt Madison – 5367 feet
- Mt Adams – 5774 feet
- Mt Jefferson – 5712 feet
- Mt Clay – 5533 feet
- Mt Washington – 6288 feet
- Mt Monroe – 5384 feet
- Mt Franklin – 5001 feet
- Mt Eisenhower – 4780 feet
- Mt Pierce – 4310 feet
- Mt Jackson – 4052 feet
But here is a more detailed description of the route.
Traverse Peaks- Exploring the Hike’s Key Sections
Tackling the Northern Peaks
Most people tackle the first peak, Madison, by way of the Valley Way Trail which forms one of the tougher climbs of the day, best done first.
The 3.8 miles to start the trip has an elevation gain of around 4000 feet. There is a hut at the top of this commencing peak, which is a good place to stock up and check the weather for the rest of the morning.
The next trail to embark on is the Gulfside trail which takes you to the peak of Adams and Jefferson, these trails follow a large valley known as the Great Gulf.
There is a rather pastoral area on the southern shoulder of Mt. Jefferson that is a momentary and idyllic break – it remains tempting to sit down.
The northern part of the hike features the highest peaks, including the formidable Mount Washington. These peaks offer rigorous climbs and breathtaking views.
Mt Washington, the next peak to traverse, has one of the worst histories of bad weather in the US, let alone the mountain range.
A huge jet stream hangs over the mountain, just waiting to blow hikers off the mountain year-round.
It’s best to check before you traverse the mountain, but at the top, you will be greeted by a snack bar, however strange, it’s a good place to load up.
Even more strangely, there is a train that goes to the peak of Mt. Washington, mainly for tourists, so maybe avoid it if you want to press on. But if you feel like bailing now, it’s best to do it here.
Discovering the Southern Peaks
Luckily, Monroe lies just past the hut and is easy to set your sights on.
What’s even better is that after Monroe, the next four peaks (Franklin, Eisenhower, Pierce and Jackson) are pretty easy, and you can really pound these out with the right preparation and proficiency.
Smashing out these peaks is the key to a good finish time.
Recommended Reading: Tongariro Alpine Crossing: New Zealand’s Best Day Hike, Best Energy Bars for Hiking to Keep Hunger at Bay
Weather on the Traverse
The views are totally worth traversing the mountainside for, but if you get hit by dehydration, snowstorms, lightning, hail, or any other extreme weather condition, which remains quite likely, then these views can quickly be forgotten.
The route remains fairly hard in whatever weather conditions; in the heat, it can be really hard for many, in the cold the weather conditions can be debilitating, and in both situations, water management is key.
In the winter these huts are shut, so it requires extra planning.
Many climbers who are well experienced and proficient in climbing can manage to do this in one day. We would recommend trying to do it in either two or three days.
There are many great places to camp, many of which are above the tree line, so remain fairly safe.
The whole trail is actually above the tree line, so some map reading skills are also super necessary to remain safe. However, a road is often never too far away if you bail and need to hitch home.
This trail is hard but really worthwhile. There aren’t too many trails in the US that can provide this level of challenge.
In Summary
Attempting to complete this in one day can be really good training for other harder trails that are out there. US climbers love the trail as while it is close to home, it can provide the challenge necessary for training.
If you want to attempt the Presidential Traverse trail, we recommend getting yourself a presidential convoy just like they have.
Get some people you trust who have some map skills, experience climbing, and a happy demeanor, and you can really make a good go at it. Without some serious experience in your locker, we wouldn’t suggest going it alone.
To understand the key differences between 3 season and 4 season tents, and to determine which is best suited for your next outdoor adventure, explore our detailed comparison here.
FAQS
The best time to hike the Presidential Traverse trail is during the summer months, from June to September, when the weather is most stable. However, always check the weather forecast before you go, as conditions can change rapidly in the mountains.
It typically takes two to three days to complete the entire traverse, though strong, experienced hikers might do it in one day.
No, you don’t need a permit to hike the Presidential Traverse, but if you plan to camp along the trail, be aware of the regulations and designated camping areas. Always practice Leave No Trace principles to keep the wilderness pristine for fellow hikers.
Cell service is intermittent at best; carrying a satellite communicator or GPS device is advisable.
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