Mount Washington via Huntington Ravine and Lion Head Trail

This route is considered exceptionally challenging and is widely recognized as the most difficult and dangerous hike in the White Mountains and all of New England. It's listed on New Hampshire's "Terrifying 25" list due to its extreme steepness, significant rock scrambling, and Class 3 and 4 climbing sections, particularly in Huntington Ravine. It requires proper use of handholds and should only be attempted by experienced hikers.

The terrain is diverse and demanding. You'll encounter lush forest trails, extensive boulder fields, and sections requiring significant rock scrambling. The Huntington Ravine Trail features extreme steepness, slabby sections, and a prominent headwall involving Class 3 and 4 climbing. The descent via the Lion Head Trail, while less technical, is still a tough and rocky path.

The common starting point for this loop is from the Pinkham Notch Visitor Center. Parking is available at the visitor center, but it can fill up quickly, especially on weekends during peak season. Arriving early is highly recommended.

The best time to hike this trail is typically from late June through early September. Mount Washington is notorious for its rapidly changing and severe weather, so it's crucial to choose a day with a clear forecast. Avoid attempting this trail in wet, icy, or bad weather conditions, as the technical sections become extremely treacherous.

Dogs are generally allowed on trails in the White Mountain National Forest, but this specific route, especially the Huntington Ravine Trail, is not recommended for dogs due to the extreme technical difficulty, extensive rock scrambling, and Class 3/4 climbing sections. It would be unsafe for most dogs and their owners.

While there isn't a specific permit required to hike the Huntington Ravine or Lion Head Trails, you may need to pay a parking fee at the Pinkham Notch Visitor Center, which contributes to the upkeep of the White Mountain National Forest. Always check current regulations before your visit.

This hike offers outstanding scenery. Along the Huntington Ravine Trail, you'll encounter waterfalls. Once above the treeline, you'll get breathtaking views of the valley to the east and expansive vistas in almost all directions. The Lion Head Trail also provides "ridiculous open views" of the surrounding mountains. Many argue the best views are experienced along the trails leading to the summit, rather than just from the summit itself.

Yes, the route you'll be taking also passes through sections of the Tuckerman Ravine Trail, the Lion Head Trail, and the Raymond Path. These trails are part of the extensive network in the Mount Washington area.

No, it is strongly not recommended to descend the Huntington Ravine Trail. This trail is exceptionally steep and technical, with Class 3 and 4 climbing sections that are extremely difficult and dangerous to navigate downwards, especially when wet or icy. The common and safer practice is to ascend Huntington Ravine and descend via the Lion Head Trail.

Given the extreme difficulty and unpredictable weather, you should bring a comprehensive gear list. This includes sturdy hiking boots with excellent ankle support, multiple layers of clothing (even in summer), rain gear, a map and compass/GPS, plenty of water and high-energy snacks, a headlamp, first-aid kit, and trekking poles (though they may be cumbersome on the technical scrambling sections). Be prepared for winter-like conditions at any time of year above treeline.

While the exact duration can vary based on fitness and conditions, this challenging loop typically takes 6 to 8 hours to complete. The technical nature of Huntington Ravine and the significant elevation gain mean you should allocate ample time and start early in the day.