UPDATE 1/18/24 2:20pm: We are going to do a Wildcat traverse instead: 9.3 mi, 3200 ft. gain, steep scrambling with exposure.

Join us on a challenging hike to the highest peak in the Northeast, with grand 360-degree views of the entire region! We'll be ascending via one of the steepest trails in the White Mountains, the Lion Head winter route, which has a section gaining 950 ft. in 0.4 miles, requiring crampons and ice axe. Depending on conditions, we'll either return the way we came, or descend via Nelson Crag Trail and Old Jackson Road. Mt. Washington can be subject to extreme winds and cold, so there is a significant chance that the weather will force us to modify or cancel the trip.

Route: 9.1 mi, 4450 ft. gain, with very steep scrambling. Several miles above treeline. https://caltopo.com/m/G0LH1

We will leave Cambridge very early so that we can hike at a comfortable pace. We'll stop for a quick breakfast along the way.

Mandatory in-person pre-trip meeting Thursday, January 18 at 9pm in the MIT Student Center.

Participants will share car costs (about $130/car). If you can drive your own car or are willing to drive a rental car, please edit the lottery preferences on your MITOC profile to show this.