[at-l] New Hampshire mileage and time

[baltimorejack@hotmail.com (Jack Tarlin)]

To Bob:

  If you were able to hike all of Vermont in 11 days, then you should 
certainly be able to hike the trip you've mentioned in just over two weeks, 
assuming you have decent weather.  It generally takes me about 12 days to 
hike New Hampshire.  Be aware of a few things---the stretch from Grafton 
Notch to the Maine/NH line, or for that matter from there to Gorham is a lot 
tougher than you might think; do not expect to do big miles here.  Because 
of this, I think 14-17 days would be about right for your trip, assuming 
also that you might take some time off in Gorham, North Woodstock, and 
perhaps Glencliff.

   Also, while you mentioned you're committed to keeping your pack weight 
down, don't neglect to carry LOTS of water, especialy in Southern New 
Hampshire----it was bone dry there this past summer, and because of a 
scarcity of snow so far, folks seem to think it could be a very dry summer 
next year. Even "established" water sources such as ones posted in the A.T. 
Data Book and marked on maps were dry, as were several of the shelters.  
2002 could se more of the same.

   There are several of us on this list who live in the area, and many 
who've hiked here; if you have specific questions about the Trail in Maine 
or New Hampshire, don't hesitate to ask.
                                                 ---Jack Tarlin
                                                    Hanover, NH

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