Steep, but a quick way to get above tree-line.

There are too many ways to get up above tree-line in the Presidential Range, some are long and tedious, others get right to the point. I’d put this trail in the latter. I first used Ammonoosuc Ravine  Trail in the winter to do some skiing  up around Oakes Gulf.

Recently during a lousy stretch of November weather and right after a ton of rain I thought it would be worth seeing in the “off-season”. As it turns out there are these great little waterfalls and pools scattered along the entire length of the trail.Perfect spots to cool off or hang out.

3 miles long this is one of the shorter routes to tree-line, but you will certainly pay for it in the steep steps and water crossings.Start off at the Cog Railway parking lot and head straight up hill to the trail head. As you get closer to tree-line keep you eyes peeled for trail markers because it gets a bit tricky to stay on the trail. Once above tree-line STAY ON THE TRAIL!  there are loads of delicate flowers, mosses, etc that basically die once stepped on.

The trail ends near Lake of the Clouds hut, which offers a great view of the summit of Mt. Washington to the North.