Up Old Bridle Path and Down Hard on Falling Waters Trail

There was beautiful weather in the forecast so it seemed like a perfect day for a Franconia Ridge loop hike. I would be joining fellow hikers Jill, Brian, Larry, Eric and Mark for a clockwise hike of this loop. I've always done it counter-clockwise. Our route would take us up the Old Bridle Path to Greenleaf Hut then up the Greenleaf Trail to the summit of Mount Lafayette (5,260'). We would then hike across the Franconia Ridge Trail, one of the most beautiful trails in the White Mountains, crossing over Mount Lincoln (5,089') and on to Mount Haystack before turning onto the Falling Waters Trail descending back to the parking lot to complete the loop.

Wildflowers and Waumbek

I was hoping to get in a hike today but it would have to be after my son's baseball game. Heavy rain was in the forecast for tomorrow as a Nor'easter would be forming over New England so there would be no hiking for me on Sunday. A late day hike would mean a short hike and short drive. Mount Waumbek (4,006') met these requirements and seemed to be the perfect choice. I also needed this summit for May.

Rain and Monorails to Mount Pierce

With nothing but several days of rain showers in the forecast the thought was to hike during a possible break in the showers and make a go of it. Sunday morning appeared to be rain-free with showers moving in for the afternoon. With all the rain there would be some water crossings on certain trails that are difficult and possibly hazardous. The decision was made to hike Mount Pierce and Mount Eisenhower. I would be joining fellow hikers Jill and Larry.