Lonesome Lake, NH

North of Lincoln NH is a steep trail, climbing a vertical mile up in only 1.5 miles of trail. Did I mention it's steep? Some trail reviews have actually labeled this as an easy hike. If you consider going up a staircase (with 1000 tall steps and no flat spots) to be easy, fine. I believe most of us would consider 'easy' to be a dirt road or trestle trail, mostly flat with maybe some gently rolling inclines. This is a moderately difficult hike in my book. Hiking time from trailhead to the lake is roughly 1.5 hours. Maybe the short distance is what earns some hikers' rating of 'easy'. Hiking boots are strongly recommended instead of sneakers.

The trailhead is easily found, as is following the trail onward. It is well maintained by the local Appalachian Mountain Club. They have built 'staircases' from local rocks and cleared debris to keep the dirt sections intact. They have also applied clear blazes to trees. Getting lost on this trail would take some effort.

Many trail reviews also say this trail is good for families. If your kids are energetic, are accustomed to hiking and aren't whiners, it's quite possible that they'd enjoy themselves. Many kids new to hiking or younger than probably 8-10 will find it too hard. Teen- and college-aged hikers will love it.

The AMC operates a hut on Lonesome Lake. For a fee hikers can have meals and a bunk in a fantastic setting. The hut is a welcome stop on the Appalachian Trail. Working as a caretaker for the summer is a perfect job for a hiker between college semesters. Of course the aforementioned trail is the only access from the nearest road so anyone spending the summer at the hut must be able to live with minimal possessions. Employees will hike in and out with supplies on a frequent basis.

From the hut there are other trails around the lake and further into the White Mountains. It's an ideal vacation for those who enjoy wilderness. When I was there I was wishing I could stay overnight and try to see some moose near the lake at dawn.

I thoroughly enjoyed this hike. It was the hardest I had ever done so I was very proud to finish it, especially solo and especially a year after knee surgery. The big lesson I learned was to never travel without my camera battery charger and an extra battery. If I hadn't made that mistake I would have more photos to post here.

For directions to the trail and more information about the hut visit www.outdoors.org.