Liberty and Flume Out and Back [02/20/21]

Up for cold but spectacular views? Liberty and Flume don't disappoint! With views into Franconia Notch we may see Lincoln and Lafayette, Cannon and the Kinsmen. This is a hike for experienced winter hikers, not a hike for beginners. Liberty Spring Trail is steep but not technical. Snowshoes will be a must for the ridge walk between the two peaks.

Distance: 10.2

Elevation gain: 4250

Difficulty: Hard

Map: This is a close approximation of the route we'll be taking. We'll go up Liberty Spring Trail to Mount Liberty. Then take Franconia Ridge Trail to Mount Flume. After that we will NOT descend the Flume Slide Trail but return the way we came. This is an out-and-back hike. https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/new-hampshire/flume-and-liberty-loop in this map we'll be taking the second half of the trail.

There will be a gear check for this hike at the pick up location and at the trailhead if you're a non-carpooler. If you don't have the gear, you will not be allowed to join the hike. No exceptions!

What to bring:

Waterproof, winter-hiking boots (no sneakers, no trail runners)

Microspikes (no yaktrax)

Snowshoes (Mandatory)

Gaiters

Water-resistant or waterproof pants.

Thermal layer (optional but recommended).

Non-cotton base layer (preferable wool or synthetic).

breathable mid-layer (eg: microfleece)

Water-proof hard/soft shell jacket

Hat

Waterproof and insulated Gloves

ski goggles (incase of squalls)

Headlamp (in case we hike into the night with the early sunsets)

3 liters of water that won't freeze. (Insulated water bottle or other method)

Snacks and lunch. You will be burning a lot of energy!

Trekking poles (highly recommended)

First aid kit

Hand and toe warmers

extra socks

Upbeat attitude

All Trails maps: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/new-hampshire/signal-ridge-trail-to-mount-carrigain

Expectation:

This is NOT a beginner hike so you must be in good shape and have confidence in finishing it, in winter conditions! We will be keeping a steady 1.5 to 1.8mph pace throughout the hike and would try to hike as a group. However if you are slowing the group down (this includes myself too) I expect you to have the grace to turn back and wait at the trail head. You must have the gear above or you will be turned away before leaving the carpool spot/trailhead. You are responsible for having a map of this hike; this is not a guided hike. You are joining like-minded enthusiasts and are responsible for your own safety and preparedness. Beyond that lets make this a memorable trip, with great weather and a trip into a winter wonderland. Happy hiking!

If you are traveling from Massachusetts, please be aware of the State’s guidelines for travel outside of the State. The guidelines can be found here. You are expected to abide by these guidelines and assume all responsibility for non-compliance.

Liberty and Flume Out and Back

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