Excursions (Hiking)

Inside Excursions (Hiking)

Committee Members

Updated October 3, 2024

Excursions is the hiking committee of the NH Chapter. We have many activities going on each month. Our volunteer Trip Leaders lead trips to many places in northern New England, some that may be familiar and many that will be completely new to you. We’ll take you to the tallest peaks of the Presidential Range and to the smaller ones, like Willard and Major. We don’t just go to the White Mountains! In southern NH we hike in places like the Monadnock-Sunapee and Sunapee-Ragged-Kearsarge Greenways, and Pawtuckaway State Park. We also sponsor trips to the New England and NH 100 Highest peaks, many of which don’t have trails.

Mount Washington from Mt Isolation

 

On our trips, the safety of the group is always paramount. All of our activities are led by trained volunteer Trip Leaders and vary from single day to multi-day events.

 

Hike with AMC-NH Meetup Group

We have a Hike with AMC-NH Meetup Group. Many of our hikes and activities are also posted there. You can log on to Meetup using your Facebook account or you can create a meetup log in (both are free). If you use Meetup, you can get email notices every time a new hike is posted as well as weekly reminders. Usually, the hikes on meetup will be listed as “waitlisted” that does not mean the trip is full. It is our way of screening for activities on our meetup listings.

 

Groups, Workshops & Activities

In addition to our general hiking trips, we have some specialized groups, workshops and activities that you may find interesting. Click on one of the below links for more information about that workshop/group.

Winter Hiking Series

The Winter Hiking Series is held every year to introduce 3 season hikers to Winter hiking.  Registration will begin on July 15, 2022.  Please click on the below link for more info.  

Winter Hiking Series

Workshops –  Two Winter Workshops, One Spring Workshop and one Fall leadership class are held at our Cardigan Lodge each year.   

Workshops

Family Group 

The Family Group creates opportunities for families with children of all ages to enjoy the outdoors together.

Family Group

Over 55 Group

The Over 55 group offers hikes at a leisurely pace.

Over 55 Group

Get Involved!

If you are interested in becoming a hike leader, learn more about how to qualify.

Feel free to contact us with any questions.

Leadership Opportunities

The Excursions Committee is the hiking committee for the New Hampshire Chapter of AMC. Our leaders lead hikes of all sorts, for participants of many interests.

Do you have young children who love the outdoors? Would you like to lead them and their families to fun, interesting destinations? Please consider becoming a leader for our Family Group.

Perhaps you’re a mature hiker, still out there hiking many of the high peaks, but at a gentler pace. You may wish to become a leader for our Over 55 Group, which isn’t limited to any specific age.

If your interest is in taking walks in your local conservation areas or sanctuaries, with occasional short hikes of fewer than 5 miles, then our Walks and Short Hikes leadership is for you!

Perhaps you’re an accomplished peak-bagger and frequent hiker to the White Mountains. Would you like to give back by leading other hikers to your favorite destinations? Please consider becoming a Class 2 (three-season) or Class 1 (four-season) leader.

For more information on any of these categories, please email an Excursions Committee co-chair.

To find out a little more about how we train our leaders and their experience see our Leadership Qualifications page and read about our Leadership Training – Fall or Winter or Spring

 

John Williams & Jamie Gillon
Excursion Committee Co-Chairs

Calendar

Winter Hiking for Beginners

This hike is designed for rank beginners in winter hiking. The mileage (4-5 miles) and elevation (500-600') will be small as a hike goes and the emphasis will be on learning the ins and outs of managing your hiking in winter.

The pace will be slow to accommodate questions and answers as we travel. You will be expected to be hiking regularly. You will have snowshoes and some form of light traction (microspikes).

You'll need extra clothing layers, food and water( in an insulated container) all fitting in a backpack large enough to carry it all. You'll need some form of trekking poles or ski poles.

The focus will be on maintaining/ managing your heat level through layering and pacing, nutrition and hydration during winter excursions and bits of weather and trip planning information.

Date
Saturday, December 21st 2024, 8:30 AM – 3:00 PM
Status
Open
Activities
Hiking Snowshoeing
Location
Hamlin-Eades-Smyth Recreation Area, Meredith, NH
Region
New Hampshire, Lakes Region
Committee
Excursions
Leader
Steve Zimmer
Leader
Terri Wilson
Registration is required for this activity.
Register

Winter 4K Bargain: Mt. Pierce!

Scenery over shopping! With its gorgeous view, Mt. Pierce (4,313') affords tremendous bang-for-the-buck. Whether you are an experienced winter 4K hiker looking to ease into the snow or a winter hiker feeling ready for your first 4K, this is a seasonal kickstarter to be shared with others. If conditions are favorable we will make it a lollipop loop visiting the closed-for-the-season Mizpah Spring Hut before descending using the Mizpah Cutoff (total 6.1 miles, 2,410' gain), or it can be kept to an out-and-back on Crawford Path (total 5.9 miles, 2,381' gain). While prior winter 4K experience is not necessary, lower elevation winter experience is a must. This is a moderate hike which could be more strenuous in some winter conditions. Full winter gear is required, including microspikes and mountaineering snowshoes. Join us for this great deal you absolutely will not find in stores!

Date
Monday, December 23rd 2024
Status
Wait Listed
Activities
Hiking Snowshoeing
Location
Bretton Woods, NH
Region
New Hampshire, White Mountains
Committee
Excursions
Leader
Mjo McCarthy
Leader
John Williams
Registration is required for this activity.
Join Waitlist

YEAR END MORIAH SUMMIT -12/29/2024

Please join us on a hike to Mt Moriah to close out 2024.

We will hike at a moderate pace for this 10-mile round trip hike with an elevation gain of 3150' to reach the 4049' summit.

This route, via the Stony Brook and Carter-Moriah trails, is a vigorous out-and-back hike that offers stunning views of multiple ranges including the Presidentials.

We will make stops to delayer, snack, hydrate and rest as needed and plan to have a summit lunch, weather permitting. Recent hiking experience and good physical conditioning is required as well as full winter gear that includes mountaineering snowshoes. Registration is required by completing the REGISTER NOW button and completing the required fields. A leader will contact you with additional information and to discuss if this trip is a good fit for you. Trip will be weather dependent, determined 1-2 days before the hike with a makeup day on December 30.

Date
Sunday, December 29th 2024
Status
Wait Listed
Activities
Hiking Snowshoeing
Region
New Hampshire, White Mountains
Committee
Excursions
Leader
Donald Walters
Leader
David Geiger
Registration is required for this activity.
Join Waitlist

Winter Hike to the Hancock's

Join us for a year end winter adventure on the Hancock's - two of NH's 4,000 peaks. Named for one of our nation's founders - John Hancock, these two peaks used to be some of the most remote in the White Mountains prior to the opening of the Kankamagus Highway in 1959 and development of the trail in 1969. This strenuous and challenging winter hike climbs ~2,600' over a total of ~9.8 miles. Recent hiking experience of similar mileage and elevation, previous winter experience in steep terrain and appropriate winter equipment including mountaineering snowshoes, micro spikes and crampons are required.

Potential participants must register online and a trip leader will be in touch to discuss their equipment and prior hiking experience.

Date
Monday, December 30th 2024
Status
Open
Activities
Hiking Snowshoeing
Location
Mt Hancock
Region
New Hampshire, White Mountains
Committee
Excursions
Leader
Bill Nesheim
Leader
David Geiger
Registration is required for this activity.
Register

Mt. Tecumseh, 55+

Mt. Tecumseh, 55+

Join Tim and John on a fabulous winter hike to the summit of Mt. Tecumseh. We still consider Tecumseh a 4,000 footer, which was named for a native Shawnee Indian chief Tecumseh, who was a fierce warrior during the early 1800's.

We plan to hike from Waterville Valley on trail for 5 miles round trip and 2,200' elevation gain. We will hike at a slow to moderate pace, crossing several streams, and ascending steeply in the upper elevation. When the skies are clear, there are partial views at the summit, and mid-way views across one of the ski trails.

Full winter gear is required for this hike, including mountaineering snow shoes, light traction and appropriate warm layers. Hikers who request to join this hike will be contacted by one of the leaders to review gear and experience suitable for this hike. Leaders will coordinate with accepted hikers prior to the day of the hike.

Date
Friday, January 10th 2025
Status
Open
Activities
Hiking Snowshoeing
Location
mount Tecumseh
Region
New Hampshire, White Mountains
Committee
Excursions
Leader
John Williams
Leader
Tim Kennedy
Registration is required for this activity.
Register

January in the Belknap Range - 3 Peaks

Join the AMC NH Chapter for a January hike to three peaks in the Belknap Range!

Route: We will ascend Whiteface Mountain, Mount Piper and Belknap Mountain. This route will require a car spot between hike participants starting at one trailhead and ending at another.

Stats: The trip is approximately 6 miles and will be about 2,090 feet of elevation gain. We will hike at a moderate pace.

Description: Starting at the car park at Lower Carriage Road, we will carpool to the Whiteface Mountain Trailhead. We will hike the trail to Whiteface Mountain then back to the Piper-Whiteface Link to the summit of Mount Piper. From there, we will hike the Old Piper Trail to White Trail to the Belknap Range Trail to reach the summit of Belknap Mountain. Our final descent will be down Warden's Trail to the upper parking lot.

Requirements: Recent hiking experience and proper seasonal equipment is required. As this is a winter hike, light traction, snowshoes, and proper clothing for the conditions are required.

Registration: To request registration, click on Register Now and enter the required information. Once the request for registration is received, a leader will be in touch with regards to next steps. Only hikers who are confirmed participants may participate in the hike.

Date
Saturday, January 11th 2025
Status
Open
Activities
Hiking
Location
Belknap Mountain
Region
New Hampshire, Lakes Region
Committee
Excursions
Leader
David Geiger
Leader
Olivia Booth
Registration is required for this activity.
Register

Adams (and maybe Madison)

Join us to hike Mt. Adams and maybe Mt. Madison. Mt. Adams (5,799 ft.) is the 2nd highest of the New England summits. Its large area of above treeline provides a 360 degree view. Mt Madison (5,366 ft.) is the farthest northeast of the high peaks of the Presidential Range. This is an extremely strenuous hike, hikers will be very exposed to winter weather conditions above tree line. Depending on the weather we plan to hike via the Madison Hut and the Valley Way Trail or the Air Line Trail. The hike is 9.2 miles and the elevation gain is going to be 4983 ft., if we hike both summits. Elevation gain for Mt. Adams is 4,500, ft. Full winter gear is required for this hike.

To address unforeseen challenges such as adverse weather, unacceptable trail conditions or excessive crowding, the planned trip destination, activity and/or meeting place and time may be modified. In that event, participants may elect to join in that activity or opt out.

Date
Saturday, January 18th 2025
Status
Open
Activities
Hiking
Location
Mt adams, nh
Region
New Hampshire, White Mountains
Committee
Excursions
Leader
Fatemeh Haghighatjoo
Leader
John Williams
Registration is required for this activity.
Register

Beginner Snowshoe Hike In Sugar Hill, NH

Come join us for an easy snowshoe of 3 miles in length, an elevation gain of 200' and the most amazing views of the White Mountains ever! Ideal hike for the beginner snowshoe hiker and those new to winter hiking.

Date
Wednesday, January 22nd 2025, 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Status
Open
Activities
Hiking Snowshoeing
Location
Bronson Hill Conservation Area, Franconia, NH
Region
New Hampshire, White Mountains
Committee
Excursions
Leader
Steve Zimmer
Leader
Debbie Marcus
Registration is required for this activity.
Register

Introduction to Winter Wilderness Travel

Instruction on general mountain safety, clothing, equipment, nutrition, risk management, and trip planning. Includes intro to snowshoeing, and map and compass. Intended for individuals with limited experience who'd like to start winter activities safely.

Anticipate hiking as much as 3 miles at a slow pace with occasional uphill grades.

Workshop will begin promptly at 6:30pm Friday evening, ending Sunday afternoon around 4:00pm.

Fee includes materials, lodging, excellent meals and instruction.

Register online along with your payment,

Must be 18+ to attend.

For more info, please contact Director Rick Silverberg.

Dates
Friday, January 24th 2025, 6:30 PM – Sunday, January 26th 2025 4:00 PM
Status
Open
Activities
Snowshoeing
Location
Cardigan Lodge, Alexandria NH
Region
New Hampshire, Lakes Region
Committee
Excursions
Leader
Rick Silverberg
Leader
Bob Humphrey
Links
Fees
Adult Member
$290
Adult Non-member
$310
Fee Includes
Two nights at Cardigan lodge, Friday night snack, 2 breakfasts, dinner Saturday night, lunch Sunday, instruction and materials.

Do not follow your GPS. We will email you this winters directions when you register.

Registration is required for this activity.
Register

Winter Leadership and Mountain Skills

This workshop is for those who have mastered winter hiking and wish to learn to lead others in the outdoors in winter. Exercises in planning, organizing, and conducting a trip, emphasizing leadership techniques and group dynamics. Review of the basics: accident scene management, medical considerations and off-trail navigation. Majority of the time will be outside doing education in situations in the winter woods.

This class is also for people with potential and desire to become trip leaders for the NH Chapter Excursions (hiking) or Ski Committees. Proficiency on snowshoes is a pre-requisite.

Workshop will begin promptly at 6:30pm on Friday evening, ending Sunday afternoon at 4:00pm.

Fee includes lodging, excellent meals, materials, and instruction.

You must be 18+ years to attend.

Register online along with your paymehttps://amcnhexcursions.regfox.com/amcnh-2025-winter-school-jan-24-26

For more info, please contact Director Rick Silverberg.

Dates
Friday, January 24th 2025, 6:30 PM – Sunday, January 26th 2025 4:00 PM
Status
Open
Activities
Instruction (Skills) Leadership Training
Location
Cardigan Lodge, Alexandria NH
Region
New Hampshire, Lakes Region
Committee
Excursions
Leader
Rick Silverberg
Leader
Bob Humphrey
Links
Fees
Adult Member
$290
Adult Non-member
$310
Fee Includes
Two nights at Cardigan lodge, Friday night snack, 2 breakfasts, dinner Saturday night, lunch Sunday, instruction and materials.

Do not follow your GPS. We will email you this winters directions when you register.

Registration is required for this activity.
Register

Beginner Winter Backpacking

For those who have mastered the basics of three-season backpacking. Instruction on general winter mountain safety, snowshoeing, equipment, proper camp site selection and set up, cooking, trail finding, map and compass, off-trail navigation, weather, trip planning, nutrition, and handling emergency situations.

Students will need winter clothing, -20° or lower sleeping bag, and a foam pad. A 3- or 4-season backpacking tent is needed. Group will participate in indoor lectures and evening programs, sleeping outside Friday/Saturday night, and preparing one meal outdoors.

Workshop will begin promptly at 6:30pm Friday evening, ending Sunday afternoon around 4:00pm.

Fee includes materials, lodging, excellent meals and instruction.

Register online along with your payment,

https://amcnhexcursions.regfox.com/amcnh-2025-winter-school-jan-24-26

Must be 18+ to attend.

For more info, please contact Director Rick Silverberg.

Dates
Friday, January 24th 2025, 6:30 PM – Sunday, January 26th 2025 4:00 PM
Status
Open
Activities
Backpacking Instruction (Skills)
Location
Cardigan Lodge, Alexandria NH
Region
New Hampshire, Lakes Region
Committee
Excursions
Leader
Rick Silverberg
Leader
Bob Humphrey
Links
Fees
Adult Member
$290
Adult Non-member
$310
Fee Includes
Two nights near Cardigan lodge in tents, Friday night snack, 2 breakfasts, dinner Saturday night, lunch Sunday, instruction and materials.

please do not follow your gps we will send you driving directions

Registration is required for this activity.
Register

Advanced Winter Wilderness Travel

Instruction offered in winter travel on steep terrain and above treeline. Topics covered include snowshoeing on mountain terrain, use of crampons, dressing for extreme weather conditions, off-trail navigation, and risk management.

Intended for individuals with current outdoor winter experience interested in climbing NE mountains safely. Anticipate hiking 6+ miles at a moderate/fast pace, over steep terrain, and with significant exposure to wind.

Workshop will begin promptly at 6:30pm Friday and ends Sunday around 4:00pm.

Fee includes lodging, excellent meals, materials, and instruction.

Register online along with your payment.

https://amcnhexcursions.regfox.com/amcnh-2025-winter-school-jan-24-26

You must be 18+ to attend.

For more info please contact Director Rick Silverberg.

Dates
Friday, January 24th 2025, 6:30 PM – Sunday, January 26th 2025 4:00 PM
Status
Open
Activities
Instruction (Skills) Snowshoeing
Location
Cardigan Lodge, Alexandria NH
Region
New Hampshire, Merrimack Valley
Committee
Excursions
Leader
Rick Silverberg
Leader
Bob Humphrey
Links
Fees
Adult Member
$290
Adult Non-member
$310
Fee Includes
Two nights at Cardigan lodge, Friday night snack, 2 breakfasts, dinner Saturday night, lunch Sunday, instruction and materials.

Do not use your GPS . some roads are closed in winter ./ We will email you driving directions after you register .

Registration is required for this activity.
Register

Ski Touring

: Build your Nordic skiing skills on rolling, ungroomed terrain, and learn to travel outside of the resort safely on skis.

Ever wondered what it would feel like to ski through those beautiful open woods by the brook, but you have always been hesitant venturing off the beaten path because you have an acute sense of self-preservation? Then you are the perfect candidate for this course! We will take your survival instinct and hone it; teaching you how to safely cross-country ski outside the resort, and yet satisfy your child-like curiosity.

You will learn how to navigate uneven terrain and ungroomed snow on your Nordic skis, starting with the basics of how to stop and turn on flat ground and gentle slopes, and progressing to steeper and rolling terrain over the course of the weekend. We will also review the wilderness skills and tools you need to be safe and self-sufficient outside of the resort.

Prerequisites: Participants do not need prior backcountry skiing experience, but they should already be comfortable skiing up and down gentle hills on groomed snow, on their Nordic equipment.

Equipment: Metal-edged cross-country/Nordic skis with scales or wax and NNN-BC or 3-pin bindings, or similar. Climbing skins or kicker skins may be useful, but are not required. Backpack, etc… see list

Expect to be outdoors playing in the snow on skis for 3-4 hours each day and ski 2-4 miles. Be prepared to ski with a day pack.

We'll be outdoors for about 5 hours each day skiing and learning on varied terrain with full daypacks.

Workshop will begin promptly at 6:30pm Friday evening, and ends Sunday afternoon around 4:00pm.

Fee includes lodging, excellent meals, materials and instruction.

Now part of the AMC NH SKI Committee Cardigan Mountain Ski School.

You must be 18+ to attend.

For more info, please contact Director Rick Silverberg.

Dates
Friday, January 24th 2025, 6:30 PM – Sunday, January 26th 2025 4:00 PM
Status
Open
Activities
Instruction (Skills) Skiing - Cross-Country (Nordic)
Location
Cardigan Lodge, Alexandria NH
Region
New Hampshire, Lakes Region
Committee
Excursions
Leader
Rick Silverberg
Leader
Bob Humphrey
Links
Fees
Adult Member
$290
Adult Non-member
$310
Fee Includes
Two nights at Cardigan lodge, Friday night snack, 2 breakfasts, dinner Saturday night, lunch Sunday, materials and instruction.

Do not follow your gps some roads are some times are not maintained for winter travel . we will email you driving directions when you register

Registration is required for this activity.
Register

•Resort-to-backcountry: downhill/alpine touring & telemark

Take your alpine or telemark skills from the resort to the backcountry! We will teach you the skiing and basic wilderness skills you need to tour the backcountry safely (and have fun!).

Are you an intermediate or advanced alpine or telemark skier, who is tired of expensive lift tickets and long lines at resorts? Maybe you have been curious to try "backcountry skiing," but you weren't sure how to start. If so, you belong in this course!

We will take those downhill skills you have honed in the resort, and help you translate them to the backcountry. You will learn how to navigate ungroomed snow, trees, and other natural obstacles on your alpine touring (AT) or telemark skis, how to use your climbing skins, and techniques for traveling in the wilderness safely and self-sufficiently. Over the course of the weekend, we will progressively tackle more challenging terrain and teach backcountry-specific skiing techniques. The meaning of survival skiing will be thoroughly explored!

Prerequisites: Participants don't need previous backcountry skiing experience, but they should already be comfortable skiing blue downhill runs at resorts on alpine or telemark.

We'll be outdoors for about 5 hours each day skiing and learning on various terrain with your full day pack. Equipment: back country or tele and back country boots or tele boots to match your skies. Climbing skins are required. Backpack, winter gear for back country etc.

Be prepared to spend 4 to 6 hours per day outside on skis and to ski with a pack on down mountain trails.

This is not just for telemark skiers. Backcountry skills and strategies for the "AT" (alpine touring) skier will also be reviewed.

Workshop will begin promptly at 6:30pm Friday evening, ending Sunday afternoon around 4:00pm.

Fee includes materials, lodging, excellent meals and instruction.

Register online

https://amcnhexcursions.regfox.com/amcnh-2025-winter-school-jan-24-26

Must be 18+ to attend.

For more info, please contact Director Rick Silverberg.

Dates
Friday, January 24th 2025, 6:30 PM – Sunday, January 26th 2025 4:00 PM
Status
Open
Activities
Instruction (Skills) Skiing
Location
Cardigan Lodge, Alexandria NH
Region
New Hampshire, Lakes Region
Committee
Excursions
Leader
Rick Silverberg
Leader
Bob Humphrey
Links
Fees
Adult Member
$290
Adult Non-member
$310
Fee Includes
Two nights at Cardigan lodge, Friday night snack, 2 breakfasts, dinner Saturday night, lunch Sunday, instruction and materials.

DO NOT FOLLOW YOUR GPS WE WILL SEND DRIVING DIRECTION

Registration is required for this activity.
Register

AMC New Hampshire Chapter Winter School Jan 24-26 2025

Instruction in winter mountain travel, back country skiing and snowshoeing for all levels, including potential skiing and hiking leaders. One zoom session on Jan 19 and a very busy weekend at Cardigan state forest on Friday Jan 24 6:30 pm- Sunday Jan 26 4:00 pm filled with instruction, field exercises, lectures, and discussions. If you're not sure which class is right for you, just ask our Workshop Directors.

Choose from one of eight available classes, covering most every aspect of winter backcountry travel:

1 & 2) Introduction to Winter Mountain Travel (beginner and intermediate snowshoeing), which includes instruction in safety, equipment, route finding, map and compass, off-trail navigation, weather, trip planning, nutrition, and handling emergencies in a winter mountain environment.

3) Advanced Winter Wilderness Travel, for those looking to hike high peaks and learn correct use of crampons.

4) Resort-to-light backcountry: cross-country / Nordic Skiing.

5) Resort-to-backcountry: downhill / Alpine touring & telemark Skiing.

6) Introduction to winter camping includes instruction in backpacking equipment, campsite selection, route finding, map and compass, weather, trip planning, cooking, selecting and setting up a camp site and emergencies. set up camp outdoors Friday pm Than Plan to spend Saturday all day outdoors practicing camping skills , providing your own backpacking equipment. Then sleep out again on Saturday night

7) Leadership and Mountain Skills, for those who have good winter hiking and/or skiing skills, and wish to enhance them to run trips of their own. Exercises in planning, organizing, and conducting trips with emphasis on leadership techniques and group dynamics. Plus, basics of accident scene management, medical considerations, and off-trail navigation. This course is also for those with potential and desire to become trip leaders for New Hampshire Chapter's Excursions (hiking) or Skiing Committee.

All classes are for any adult (must be 18+ to attend) who wants to learn and have a great time!

Begins with a Zoom sessions Jan 19 for some groups 7:00 to 9:00 pm (possibly shorter depending on material covered and questions) AND includes a long Weekend out in the woods and trails of Cardigan forest on Friday Jan 24 6:30 pm -Sunday Jan 26 4:00 pm.

Fee includes , room and food materials, map and instruction .

Register online along with your payment,

Dates
Friday, January 24th 2025, 6:30 PM – Sunday, January 26th 2025 4:00 PM
Status
Open
Activities
Instruction (Skills) Leadership Training
Location
Cardigan Lodge, Alexandria NH
Region
New Hampshire, Lakes Region
Committee
Excursions
Leader
Rick Silverberg
Leader
Bob Humphrey
Links
Fees
Adult Member
$290
Adult Non-member
$310
Fee Includes
instruction and training materials map room and food snack friday night breakfast Saturday and sunday , dinner saturday night and lunch sunday

Do not follow your GPS. We will email you this winters' directions when you register

Registration is required for this activity.
Register

Intermediate Winter Wilderness Travel

Instruction on general mountain safety, clothing, equipment, nutrition, risk management, and trip planning. Includes snowshoeing, and map and compass. Intended for individuals with some

limited winter or hiking experience who'd like to engage in winter activities safely.

Anticipate hiking as much as 4-5 miles at a moderate pace with hilly grades.

Workshop will begin promptly at 6:30pm Friday evening, ending Sunday afternoon around 4:00pm.

Fee includes lodging, excellent meals, materials, and instruction.

Register online along with your payment,

https://amcnhexcursions.regfox.com/amcnh-2025-winter-school-jan-24-26

Must be 18+ to attend.

For more info, please contact Director Rick Silverberg.

Dates
Friday, January 24th 2025, 7:30 PM – Sunday, January 26th 2025 4:00 PM
Status
Open
Activities
Instruction (Skills)
Location
Cardigan Lodge, Alexandria NH
Region
New Hampshire, Lakes Region
Committee
Excursions
Leader
Rick Silverberg
Leader
Bob Humphrey
Links
Fees
Adult Member
$290
Adult Non-member
$310
Fee Includes
2 nights at Cardigan lodge, Friday night snack, 2 breakfasts, dinner Saturday night, lunch Sunday, instruction and materials.

Do not follow your GPS. We will email you this winters directions when you register.

Registration is required for this activity.
Register

Crotched Mountain, Southern NH, 55+

This is a beautiful winter loop hike in southern New Hampshire !

Join John and Jon for a winter hike which passes winter wet lands, beaver ponds, and includes a fabulous rocky ridge traverse, with limited views through trees. We will follow a loop trail north east, a ridge to the west and return south via the west ridge. This area typically has animal tracks including deer, snow shoe hare and bob cat. As a bonus, we can try to find the old man of Crotched mountain, in stone.

HIKE: Link Trail, Summit East Tr, Summit West (descend loop), Link Trail return. 6 MILES total, 1200 FEET ascent.

We will hike at a slow to moderate pace.

Date
Tuesday, February 18th 2025
Status
Open
Activities
Hiking Snowshoeing
Location
Crotched Mountain
Region
New Hampshire, Monadnock Region
Committee
Excursions
Leader
John Williams
Leader
Jon Tapply
Registration is required for this activity.
Register

Resort-to-backcountry: downhill/alpine touring & telemark

Resort-to-backcountry: downhill/alpine touring & telemark

Weekend begins Friday at 6:30pm, ending Sunday at 4:00pm.

Take your alpine or telemark skills from the resort to the backcountry! We will teach you the skiing and basic wilderness skills you need to tour the backcountry safely (and have fun!).

Are you an intermediate or advanced alpine or telemark skier, who is tired of expensive lift tickets and long lines at resorts? Maybe you have been curious to try "backcountry skiing," but you weren't sure how to start. If so, you belong in this course!

We will take those downhill skills you have honed in the resort, and help you translate them to the backcountry. You will learn how to navigate ungroomed snow, trees, and other natural obstacles on your alpine touring (AT) or telemark skis, how to use your climbing skins, and techniques for traveling in the wilderness safely and self-sufficiently. Over the course of the weekend, we will progressively tackle more challenging terrain and teach backcountry-specific skiing techniques. The meaning of survival skiing will be thoroughly explored!

Prerequisites: Participants don't need previous backcountry skiing experience, but they should already be comfortable skiing blue downhill runs at resorts on alpine or telemark.

We'll be outdoors for about 5 hours each day skiing and learning on various terrain with your full day.

Required Equipment: back country or tele and back country boots or tele boots to match your skies. Climbing skins are required. Backpack, winter gear for back country etc… see list

Register online along with your payment

Dates
Friday, February 28th 2025, 6:00 PM – Sunday, March 2nd 2025 4:00 PM
Status
Open
Activities
Instruction (Skills)
Location
Cardigan Lodge, Alexandria NH
Region
New Hampshire, Lakes Region
Committee
Excursions
Leader
Rick Silverberg
Fees
Adult Member
$290
Adult Non-member
$310
Fee Includes
Two nights at Cardigan lodge, 2 breakfasts, dinner Saturday night, lunch Sunday, instruction and materials.

Do not follow your GPS. We will email you this winters directions when you register.

Registration is required for this activity.
Register

New Hampshire Chapter Winter School 2 February 28-March2, 2025

Instruction in winter mountain travel, backcountry skiing and snowshoeing for all levels, including potential skiing and hiking leaders.

Weekend filled with instruction, field exercises, lectures, and discussions. Plus, plenty of great food to fuel you back up! If you're not sure which class is right for you, just ask our Workshop Directors.

Chose from one of eight available classes, covering most every aspect of winter backcountry travel:

1 & 2) Introduction to Winter Mountain Travel (beginner and intermediate snowshoeing), which includes instruction in safety, equipment, route finding, map and compass, off-trail navigation, weather, trip planning, nutrition, and handling emergencies in a winter mountain environment.

3) Advanced Winter Wilderness Travel, for those looking to hike high peaks and learn correct use of crampons.

4) Resort-to-light backcountry Skiing

5) Cross-country/Nordic Skiing

6) Resort-to-Backcountry Skiing: downhill/alpine touring & telemark

8) Leadership and Mountain Skills is intended for those with potential and desire to become trip leaders for New Hampshire Chapter's Excursions (hiking) or Skiing Committee. It is also beneficial, for those who have good winter hiking and/or skiing skills, and wish to enhance their skills to run trips of their own. The weekend training includes exercises in planning, organizing, and conducting trips with emphasis on leadership techniques and group dynamics. Plus, basics of accident scene management, medical considerations, and off-trail navigation.

Due to Covid -19 special protocols will be in place.

you must be able to attest to have been vaccinated for covid -19 or show a negative Covid PCR test for the 72 hours before the workshop

All classes are for adult (must be 18+ to attend) who want to learn and have a great time!

Begins at 6:30pm Friday Feb. 28, ending at 4:00pm on Sunday March 2 2025.

some sections will include a zoom session on or about Feb 19, 2025 7:00 - 9:00 pm

Fee includes lodging, excellent meals, materials, and instruction.

Dates
Friday, February 28th 2025, 6:00 PM – Sunday, March 2nd 2025 4:00 PM
Status
Open
Activities
Instruction (Skills) Leadership Training
Location
Cardigan Lodge, Alexandria NH
Region
New Hampshire, Lakes Region
Committee
Excursions
Leader
Rick Silverberg
Leader
Bob Humphrey
Links
Fees
Adult Member
$290
Adult Non-member
$310
Fee Includes
Friday and Saturday Night lodging, Friday night snack, two breakfasts, Saturday dinner, Sunday Lunch, instruction and training materials

Do not follow your GPS. We will email you this winters' directions when you register

Registration is required for this activity.
Register

Resort-to-light backcountry: cross-country/Nordic

Build your nordic skiing skills on rolling, ungroomed terrain, and learn to travel outside of the resort safely on skis.

Ever wondered what it would feel like to ski through those beautiful open woods by the brook, but you have always been hesitant venturing off the beaten path because you have an acute sense of self-preservation? Then you are the perfect candidate for this course! We will take your survival instinct and hone it; teaching you how to safely cross-country ski outside the resort, and yet satisfy your child-like curiosity.

You will learn how to navigate uneven terrain and ungroomed snow on your nordic skis, starting with the basics of how to stop and turn on flat ground and gentle slopes, and progressing to steeper and rolling terrain over the course of the weekend. We will also review the wilderness skills and tools you need to be safe and self-sufficient outside of the resort.

Prerequisites: Participants do not need prior backcountry skiing experience, but they should already be comfortable skiing up and down gentle hills on groomed snow, on their nordic equipment.

Equipment: Metal-edged cross-country/nordic skis with scales or wax and NNN-BC or 3-pin bindings, or similar. Climbing skins or kicker skins may be useful, but are not required. Backpack, etc… see list

Expect to be outdoors playing in the snow on skis for 3-4 hours each day and ski 2-4 miles. Be prepared to ski with a day pack.

Ready to explore the wilderness for the day on skis and go where you want with confidence? Spend the day in the woods to improve your skills including: turning, stopping, climbing, trip planning and navigation.

We'll be outdoors for about 5 hours each day skiing and learning on varied terrain with full daypacks.

Workshop will begin promptly at 6:00pm Friday evening, and ends Sunday afternoon around 4:00pm.

Fee includes lodging, excellent meals, materials and instruction.

Now part of the AMC NH SKI Committee Cardigan Mountain Ski School.

You must be 18+ to attend.

For more info, please contact Director Rick Silverberg. 603 455 9119

Dates
Friday, February 28th 2025, 6:00 PM – Sunday, March 2nd 2025 4:00 PM
Status
Open
Activities
Instruction (Skills) Skiing - Cross-Country (Nordic)
Location
Cardigan Lodge, Alexandria NH
Region
New Hampshire, Lakes Region
Committee
Excursions
Leader
Rick Silverberg
Leader
Bob Humphrey
Links
Fees
Adult Member
$290
Adult Non-member
$310
Fee Includes
Two nights at Cardigan lodge, Friday night snack, 2 breakfasts, dinner Saturday night, lunch Sunday, materials and instruction.

Do not follow your gps some roads are some times are not maintained for winter travel . we will email you driving directions when you register

Registration is required for this activity.
Register

Introduction to Winter Wilderness Travel

Instruction on general mountain safety, clothing, equipment, nutrition, risk management, and trip planning. Includes intro to snowshoeing, and map and compass. Intended for individuals with limited experience who'd like to start winter activities safely.

Anticipate hiking as much as 3 miles at a slow pace with occasional uphill grades.

Workshop will begin promptly at 6:00pm Friday evening, ending Sunday afternoon around 4:00pm.

Fee includes materials, lodging, excellent meals and instruction.

Register online along with your payment,

Must be 18+ to attend.

For more info, please contact Director Rick Silverberg.

Dates
Friday, February 28th 2025, 6:00 PM – Sunday, March 2nd 2025 4:00 PM
Status
Open
Activities
Instruction (Skills) Snowshoeing
Location
Cardigan Lodge, Alexandria NH
Region
New Hampshire, Lakes Region
Committee
Excursions
Leader
Rick Silverberg
Leader
Bob Humphrey
Links
Fees
Adult Member
$290
Adult Non-member
$310
Fee Includes
Two nights at Cardigan lodge, Friday night snack, 2 breakfasts, dinner Saturday night, lunch Sunday, instruction and materials.

Do not follow your GPS. We will email you this winters directions when you register.

Registration is required for this activity.
Register

Intermediate Winter Wilderness Travel

Instruction on general mountain safety, clothing, equipment, nutrition, risk management, and trip planning. Includes snowshoeing, and map and compass. Intended for individuals with some limited winter or hiking experience who'd like to engage in winter activities safely.

Anticipate hiking as much as 4-5 miles at a moderate pace with hilly grades.

Workshop will begin promptly at 6:00pm Friday evening, ending Sunday afternoon around 4:00pm.

Fee includes lodging, excellent meals, materials, and instruction.

Must be 18+ to attend.

For more info, please contact Director Rick Silverberg.

Dates
Friday, February 28th 2025, 6:00 PM – Sunday, March 2nd 2025 4:00 PM
Status
Open
Activities
Instruction (Skills) Snowshoeing
Location
Cardigan Lodge, Alexandria NH
Region
New Hampshire, Lakes Region
Committee
Excursions
Leader
Rick Silverberg
Leader
Bob Humphrey
Fees
Adult Member
$290
Adult Non-member
$310
Fee Includes
2 nights at Cardigan lodge, Friday night snack, 2 breakfasts, dinner Saturday night, lunch Sunday, instruction and materials.

Do not follow your GPS. We will email you this winters directions when you register.

Registration is required for this activity.
Register

Advanced Winter Wilderness Travel

Instruction offered in winter travel on steep terrain and above treeline. Topics covered include snowshoeing on mountain terrain, use of crampons, dressing for extreme weather conditions, off-trail navigation, and risk management.

Intended for individuals with current outdoor winter experience interested in climbing NE mountains safely. Anticipate hiking 6+ miles at a moderate/fast pace, over steep terrain, and with significant exposure to wind.

Workshop will begin promptly at 6:00pm Friday and ends Sunday around 4:00pm.

Fee includes lodging, excellent meals, materials, and instruction.

You must be 18+ to attend.

For more info please contact Director Rick Silverberg.

Dates
Friday, February 28th 2025, 6:00 PM – Sunday, March 2nd 2025 4:00 PM
Status
Open
Activities
Instruction (Skills) Snowshoeing
Location
Cardigan Lodge, Alexandria NH
Region
New Hampshire, Upper Connecticut River Valley/Lake Sunapee
Committee
Excursions
Leader
Rick Silverberg
Leader
Bob Humphrey
Links
Fees
Adult Member
$290
Adult Non-member
$310
Fee Includes
Two nights at Cardigan lodge, Friday night snack, 2 breakfasts, dinner Saturday night, lunch Sunday, instruction and materials.

Do not use your GPS . some roads are closed in winter ./ We will email you driving directions after you register .

Registration is required for this activity.
Register

Winter Leadership and Mountain Skills

Leadership and Mountain Skills is intended for those with potential and desire to become trip leaders for New Hampshire Chapter's Excursions (hiking) or Skiing Committee. It is also beneficial, for those who have good winter hiking and/or skiing skills, and wish to enhance their skills to run trips of their own. The weekend training includes exercises in planning, organizing, and conducting trips with emphasis on leadership techniques and group dynamics. Plus, basics of accident scene management, medical considerations, and off-trail navigation.

Workshops will consist of one zoom meeting on about Feb 16 from 7_ 9:00 pm and outside at cardigan forest on Feb 28-March 2 starting promptly at 6:00 pm Friday and ending Sunday afternoon around 4:00 pm.

Fee includes materials, lodging at cardigan and meals and instruction.

Register online along with your payment,

Must be 18+ to attend.

For more info, please contact Director Rick Silverberg.

Dates
Friday, February 28th 2025, 6:00 PM – Sunday, March 2nd 2025 4:00 PM
Status
Open
Activities
Instruction (Skills) Leadership Training
Location
Cardigan Lodge, Alexandria NH
Region
New Hampshire, Lakes Region
Committee
Excursions
Leader
Rick Silverberg
Leader
Bill Nesheim
Links
Fees
Adult Member
$290
Adult Non-member
$310
Fee Includes
Zoom session 2days in the field at Cardigan Forest , 2 nights lodging at Cardigan and friday snacks saturday and sunday breakfast saturday dinner and sunday lunch instruction and materials.

we will send you directions after you are completely registered

Registration is required for this activity.
Register

Canceled Beginner Winter Backpacking

For those who have mastered the basics of three-season backpacking. Instruction on general winter mountain safety, snowshoeing, equipment, proper camp site selection and set up, cooking, trail finding, map and compass, off-trail navigation, weather, trip planning, nutrition, and handling emergency situations.

Students will need winter clothing, -20° or lower sleeping bag, and a foam pad. A 3- or 4-season backpacking tent is needed. Group will participate in indoor lectures and evening programs, sleeping outside Friday/Saturday night, and preparing one meal outdoors.

Workshop will begin promptly at 6:00pm Friday evening, ending Sunday afternoon around 4:00pm.

Fee includes materials, lodging, excellent meals and instruction.

Register online along with your payment,

Must be 18+ to attend.

For more info, please contact Director Rick Silverberg.

Dates
Friday, February 28th 2025, 6:00 PM – Sunday, March 2nd 2025 4:00 PM
Status
Canceled
Activities
Backpacking Instruction (Skills)
Location
Cardigan Lodge, Alexandria NH
Region
New Hampshire, Lakes Region
Committee
Excursions
Leader
Rick Silverberg
Leader
Bob Humphrey
Links
Fees
Adult Member
$290
Adult Non-member
$310
Fee Includes
Two nights near Cardigan lodge in tents, Friday night snack, 2 breakfasts, dinner Saturday night, lunch Sunday, instruction and materials.

please do not follow your gps we will send you driving directions