Moriah Loop
Highlights:
Summit 4 peaks, with some of the most unique views in the White Mountains
An off the beaten-path loop hike
Abundant swimming and fishing opportunities
Hiking above tree line
Spend the night at an Appalachian Trail Shelter
Description:
This four-day sojourn into an off-the-beaten-path area of the White Mountains is not to be missed. This trek includes: summiting 4 mountains, exploring both wilderness and alpine areas, and enjoying splendid swimming and fishing holes. Experience part of the iconic Appalachian Trail, and relish in the opportunities to share stories with other hikers along it. To top it all off, we start and finish in Gorham, NH, a picturesque mountain town.
If you have questions after reviewing the information below, or need help booking this trip, please contact us here!
Highlights:
Summit 4 peaks, with some of the most unique views in the White Mountains
An off the beaten-path loop hike
Abundant swimming and fishing opportunities
Hiking above tree line
Spend the night at an Appalachian Trail Shelter
Description:
This four-day sojourn into an off-the-beaten-path area of the White Mountains is not to be missed. This trek includes: summiting 4 mountains, exploring both wilderness and alpine areas, and enjoying splendid swimming and fishing holes. Experience part of the iconic Appalachian Trail, and relish in the opportunities to share stories with other hikers along it. To top it all off, we start and finish in Gorham, NH, a picturesque mountain town.
If you have questions after reviewing the information below, or need help booking this trip, please contact us here!
Highlights:
Summit 4 peaks, with some of the most unique views in the White Mountains
An off the beaten-path loop hike
Abundant swimming and fishing opportunities
Hiking above tree line
Spend the night at an Appalachian Trail Shelter
Description:
This four-day sojourn into an off-the-beaten-path area of the White Mountains is not to be missed. This trek includes: summiting 4 mountains, exploring both wilderness and alpine areas, and enjoying splendid swimming and fishing holes. Experience part of the iconic Appalachian Trail, and relish in the opportunities to share stories with other hikers along it. To top it all off, we start and finish in Gorham, NH, a picturesque mountain town.
If you have questions after reviewing the information below, or need help booking this trip, please contact us here!
Itinerary
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This trip includes a virtual orientation session with the guide scheduled for 5:00pm on the evening before the trip commences. The orientation will involve introductions, a briefing on the route, and discussions on packing considerations. Participants will have the opportunity to ask any final questions during this session. It is advised to ensure a good night's rest and enjoy a nourishing meal, as the journey will begin the following day.
We recommend staying locally the night before the trip begins in Gorham or at one of the many lodging options in the historic North Conway, NH.
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The adventure kicks off promptly at 8:00 am from the Carter / Moriah Trailhead in Gorham, NH. As we gather, we'll fuel up with breakfast sandwiches and coffee while organizing our gear for the day ahead. Once everyone is geared up and energized, we'll set off on our journey.
Day one promises an array of highlights, including summitting Surprise Mountain and Mount Moriah, traversing the scenic trails near Middle Moriah Mountain's summit, and tracing the path alongside Rattle River to our evening campsite. As dusk settles, we'll pitch our tents at the Rattle River camping area, relishing a hearty dinner and preparing ourselves for the exhilarating ascent of Shelburne Moriah Mountain awaiting us tomorrow.
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Day two commences with a delectable trail breakfast, setting the tone for our journey as we venture southward on the Appalachian Trail / Rattle River trail. As we bid farewell to our camp, we embark on a challenging yet rewarding ascent towards the summit of Shelburne Moriah Mountain, a journey marked by perseverance and breathtaking scenery. Upon reaching the summit, the panoramic vista unveils the majestic Moriah and Middle Moriah Mountains, with the possibility of glimpsing the renowned Presidential Peaks against the canvas of a clear sky.
Descending from this height, the landscape transitions into a gentle downhill trajectory, guiding us into the embrace of the Wild River Wilderness area. En route, we pause to refresh ourselves at the babbling Bull Brook, savoring the crisp mountain water amidst the tranquility of the wilderness. Our descent culminates as we traverse the pristine expanse of the Wild River, offering ample opportunities for anglers to seek out native trout in its crystal-clear waters. As dusk descends, we find solace and repose at the Wild River Campground, reflecting on the day's triumphs and embracing the serenity of the natural world that surrounds us.
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Day three unfolds with the anticipation of our last ascent, of the trek. Our journey is punctuated by the enchanting allure of Moriah Gorge, where hidden swimming holes beckon and the promise of further encounters with native trout awaits. At the zenith of the day's trek, we intersect again with the Appalachian Trail, guiding us southward towards the tranquil Imp Mountain Campsite. As the sun dips below the horizon, we gather around the campfire, savoring a nourishing dinner and exchanging tales with fellow hikers beneath the vast expanse of the starlit sky.
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After savoring the breathtaking morning vistas and indulging in a hearty breakfast, we reluctantly bid farewell to our wilderness retreat, setting our sights on the return journey to civilization. Following the meandering path alongside Stony Brook, we trace our steps until we rendezvous with the waters of the Peabody River. A brief interlude of road walking guides us back to the familiar embrace of our awaiting vehicles. Reaching the Moriah / Carter Trailhead once more, we gather for a final communal meal, relishing in the shared memories and bonds forged throughout our adventure, before reluctantly embarking on our individual paths homeward.
Trip Details
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Guide: A professionally licensed hiking guide, with years of experience, that is EMT certified
Gear: Use of all technical backpacking gear including: ultralight tent, top-of-the-line sleeping bag, ultralight sleeping pad, high-quality backpack, bear canister, and trekking poles
Food: Meals for entirety of trip from the start of the first day to lunch on the last day
Risk Management: Peace of mind with added safety precautions such as a Garmin In-Reach Satellite Communicator and first aid kit
Packing List: A detailed packing list of the clothing and personal items needed
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Hiking clothes, footwear, and raingear
Personal items and toiletries
Headlamp flashlight and water bottles
Transportation to and from New Hampshire
Gratuity for your guide
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Total Distance: 29 miles
Total Elevation Gain: 8,354ft
Total Elevation Loss: 8,376ft
Day One: 7.5 miles - 3,193ft gain / 2,759ft loss
Day Two: 9 miles - 2,646ft gain / 2,741ft loss
Day Three: 6.5 miles - 2,270ft gain / 221ft loss
Day Four: 6 miles - 221ft gain / 2,621ft loss
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Our backpacking trips feature a variety of nourishing meals that provide the essential nutrients with a balance of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. Examples of foods you will eat on our trips are rice, pasta, lentils, beans, couscous, dried meats, nuts, breads, oatmeal, and granola. We then add spices, herbs, oils, cheeses, butter, fresh and dried fruits, and vegetables to make these ingredients into wonderful trail feasts.
Additionally, we provide a selection of trail mix, bars, and dried fruits for you to snack on between meals.
We are happy to accommodate dietary restrictions as well as make adjustments for food allergies. Please be aware that special dietary requests may come with an additional fee.
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Our shelter system for backcountry trips are lightweight, backpacking-specific tents. You are welcome to share a tent with anyone you are traveling with or request your own tent.
Our sleep system on backcountry trip consist of two parts: First is a lightweight, temperature-appropriate, sleeping bag. Second is a closed-cell foam sleeping pad.
Although it is not required, if you have any of your own backpacking specific gear, you are welcome to bring and use it!
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The campsites on our trips are handpicked, primitive backcountry sites, carefully selected for their stunning beauty and strategic placement along our route. These sites offer a truly immersive experience, devoid of modern amenities, allowing you to connect with the landscape in its purest form. By embracing the simplicity of these sites, you can fully appreciate and engage with the unspoiled natural surroundings, fostering a deeper connection with wilderness.
Logistics
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To register for this trip, enter the number of people you are registering, then pay for the number of people in your party. If you are buying spots for people other than yourself, include their names and emails in the checkout form. Please contact us if you have questions prior to registering!
After payment, we will reach out to you via email with more information about the trip, and send you links to complete your registration. If you need help registering or have questions, reach out to us here.
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On Day 1, we meet at the Carter / Moriah Trailhead, located in Gorham, NH.
Your guide will reach out to you, via email, a week before the trip’s start date in order to answer any questions you have about the trip or the rendezvous location.
Please reach out to us - here - with any questions prior to your trip.
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The journey commences at the Carter / Moriah Trailhead in Gorham, NH. We recommend staying locally in Gorham or at one of the many lodging options in the historic North Conway, NH.
The preferred mode of transportation is by driving or renting a car. However, it is possible to reach Gorham, NH via bus from Boston; please reach out to us for further details on this option.
The closest major airport is located in Portland, ME. Additionally, Boston’s Airport is situated roughly three hours away from the destination.
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Children must be 12 years of age and accompanied by a parent or court appointed legal guardian to join shared-group experience trips. Additionally, individuals must be 18 years of age to join our trips independent of a parent or legal guardian.
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Life can be unpredictable, therefore, we recommend purchasing travel insurance to protect your investment in traveling with us.
There are many ways to obtain travel insurance. Two companies we recommend are Global Rescue and IMG.
We are happy to provided any necessary documentation to help you insure your trip. Please direct all questions about travel insurance to your insurance provider.
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The climate of the White Mountains is a Warm Humid Continental Climate, that is characterized by hot and humid summers and cold to freezing winters with evenly distributed precipitation throughout the year. The average annual temperature is 41°F, with July and January recording the highest (66°F) and lowest (39°C) average temperatures, respectively. On average, the White Mountains get 22 inches of precipitation each year. The average annual relative humidity is around 77%, and the average wind speed is 11 miles per hour. Summer (June-August) nights can be chilly, especially in the mountains. Winter (December-March) is long and cold. Spring (April-May) and fall (September-November) are short transitional seasons where a variety of weather can be experienced in a single day.