Hiking the Presidential Traverse in the White Mountains of New Hampshire is one of the hardest things I have ever done. My brother Tyler and I are always sending each other pictures of places we want to travel but they’re rarely realistic. When we found the Presidential Traverse somewhat within driving distance, we knew we had to make it happen. After some planning, we embarked on a 2day hike across 20 plus miles of rugged mountain terrain, filming as we went. Although the hike was brutal, we can look back now and laugh about our trip. Hope you enjoy our adventure and get inspired to take one of your own. So, here’s to adventure and here’s to the next trip!

Due to weather and time constraints we had to make a few adjustments to the Traverse. First of all, we opted to take the direction that most people consider backwards, starting at the AMC Highland Center and ending at the Valley Way trailhead. We knew we would have no visibility the first day and wanted to save the clear skies for the more dramatic views from Washington, Jefferson, and Adams. With wet trails and the risk for more rain, we decided to skip Webster/Jackson and head straight for Pierce. Other than that, we stayed true to the Traverse until the end. We had to skip Madison because we just didn’t have enough time.

Anyone interested in doing this hike should take time to plan the trip and make sure you’re well aware of what you’re getting into. Weather is unpredictable and has the reputation of being the worst in America. You are very exposed for the entire hike once you get above tree line and there are not many bail out routes. I spent quite a while planning it all out. Still forgot the butane (idiot!).

Transportation is tricky since it’s a traverse and not a loop. With Covid, there were no shuttles. We ended up calling Bill who is essentially a personal taxi for the area. I believe he is called the Mountain Courier Shuttle or something. Highly recommend him for a ride!

At the end of the day, this hike was hard. And despite all the bumps along the way, it was an incredible adventure. My advice to anyone who wants it is to take some time, get off Instagram, call a friend and plan an outing. It doesn’t matter where you live, how old you are, whatever, I guarantee there are things nearby that are worth seeing/doing. Get out and take an adventure.