In the Flesh: Franconia Ridge Loop

Today’s post is a bit atypical, since it’s not about watches. While our general focus will always be mechanical timepieces, the other meaning behind Wound For Life was directed towards us. We’re wound for life. For those of us living in and around cities, it’s easy to fall into the routine of things and lose touch with nature. We almost forget that not too far a drive from almost any major city lies beautiful wilderness. It’s important to reconnect every so often, get some practical exercise, and breathe untainted air. The bonus for us crazy watch people is we get to actually see if our watches can handle the elements like we so often brag about.

This past weekend, I had the opportunity to head up to the White Mountains in New Hampshire for some hiking. The Whites don’t compare well to the Rockies, Alps, or Andes as far as size, but they shouldn’t be underestimated. What they they lack in intimidating height, they make up for in trails paved with granite. Seriously, the Whites are rocky as all get-out. You’ll often find the moderate to difficult trails spattered with serious vertical gains over short distances, never-ending rocky steps, and relentless wind above the tree line. The silver lining is the views. They’re incredible. If not for the scenery, the only description left would be ‘punishing’.

Franconia Ridge Loop is a well traveled and very popular summer hike that covers 8.9 miles and 3 summits. It’s an excellent day hike, normally taking about 6-7 hours, and makes for unbelievable views during the 1.7 mile trek across the fully exposed Franconia Ridge. The first mile or two, along Falling Waters Trail, offers a number of waterfalls to help take your mind off of the forthcoming knee-tenderizing sections. After bagging the three peaks, you get a quick respite at Greenleaf Hut (where the awesome hospitality will tease you to stay the night) before heading back down to close the loop over a downhill section no easier than the uphill. Sweet relief comes in the form of a parking lot, where boot removal is the equivalent of a cold beer after a long day at work. As soreness sets in on the way home, put your mind at ease knowing the upcoming work week can be made less banal with thoughts of expansive views and feelings of accomplishment.

After the jump, get a feel for the trail with a gallery of photos. If you’ve also been bitten by the adventure bug, please leave us links to your photos in the comments; we’d love to see them.

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