Mount Garfield

It took us until the end of June to get back on the 4k trail but that’s the way the journey goes sometimes. Consideration was made that the whole family would give it a go, but in the end it was me and the kids tackling the <a href=”https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/new-hampshire/mount-garfield-trail”>10 mile Garfield Trail</a> on a potentially cloud and hot day.

The hike started around 10:15 in the morning, and the clouds were clearing and there was enough of a breeze to keep things enjoyable (and relatively bug-free). The guides suggest that the hike is gradual and relatively easy, if long, with just the last piece near the summit being steep with some rock scrambles. We enjoyed our time through the particularly pugnent section of evergreens, and particularly memorable was the woodpecker who was urging us on from our resting spot at the bottom of his tree. The trails were pretty quiet for a nice Sunday, and with a little bit of a wait we were able to have the summit for ourselves. There’s a 14×14 foundation from a fire tower, and as the online guides suggest it is a great view on a number of other mountains from the top. Clark and I were able to recognize several of our mountains from last year -Lafayette, Lincoln, Flume and Liberty.

The walk down took us quite a bit as some of our legs weren’t ready for such a long hike. A little bit of rationing of water and snacks was needed, but no permanent damage was done and it’s always a good reminder that these are not walks in a park.

This peak puts me at 10 of the 48, and Clark is at 9 (I’ve got Washington on him for a little bit longer). We may give Washington a try later in the year, depending on schedules which are getting quite busy this year. We’re currently planning to tackle Cannon in a couple of weeks. As we move in to year two with continued interest I’ve started a spreadsheet to track our progress.