Trip report
Jun 25, 2016 — This hike has been a long time coming. Ever since I first visited the White Mountains, I've wanted to do the entire Presidential Range. Although the official route does not include Mt. Jackson, it's a great little addition at the end of the day. My friend Adam and I set out along the Appalachia Trailhead on the Valley Way Trail, then up the steep Watson Path to Mt. Madison. From the Mt. Madison summit, the ridgeline continues to the summits of Adams, Jefferson, Clay, Washington, Monroe, Franklin, Eisenhower, Pierce, and then (though not officially named after a president) finishes on Mt. Jackson. Really a stunning hike on a beautiful day, despite the warnings for this area having the "worst weather in America". The first half is slow-moving because of the steep and rocky terrain, but the second half was notably less strenuous. There are warnings that the Whites have the worst weather in America, and since you're on a ridgeline for most of the day, be smart about deciding to continue if the forecase is grim.
Take two cars, one for each side of the trail. Taxi service is available, but apparently could cost over $150. Mt. Washinton is a great break spot for well-earned unhealthy goodies and a water refill. If you're not feeling it, you can bail and take a $30 hiker shuttle down the mountain from Mt. Washington.