by Beth Szczepanski

Created on: November 10, 2008   Last Updated: September 02, 2009

New Hampshire's Mount Washington offers hikers willing to endure steep climbs and often inclement weather some of the most gorgeous and rugged mountain scenery in the eastern United States. There is no easy way to hike to the mountain's summit, but with well-fitting hiking boots, good lung capacity and a tenacious spirit anyone with moderate hiking skills can make it to the summit.

Shorter, Steeper Routes

The two shortest routes up Mount Washington approach the summit from the east. These routes are often crowded, particularly when the weather is good. Don't let the crowds fool you-these trails are very steep and should not be attempted by the faint of heart or weak of knee.

Tuckerman's Ravine is the most popular trail for ascending Mount Washington. On this trail, hikers make an 8.4-mile round trip to the summit and back, gaining 4300 feet of elevation. Don't let the wide trail and gentle ascent of this route's first two and a half miles fool you; once you begin to climb the mountain in earnest, the trail becomes much more strenuous. Make sure your hiking boots have great traction, since you will need to jump from one rock to the next for much of the last difficult mile.

Another relatively short and steep route is Lion's Head. The same length as Tuckerman's Ravine, Lion's Head offers hikers even steeper and more rugged climbing. If you don't want to share your mountain climbing experience with a big crowd, this route might be the best choice for you. Your hard work will be rewarded with great vistas along the way.

Longer, Less Steep Routes

Several trails provide a somewhat gentler ascent to the summit of Mount Washington. With the more gradual climb comes added trail length, so be prepared for a long haul if you use these trails. Also, be aware that even the easiest hiking trails that climb to the mountain's summit have their steep and slippery areas.

The Boott Spur trail is nearly as steep as Tuckerman's Ravine, and covers nearly two and a half more miles per round trip. This longer trail is not for those seeking the easiest way up the mountain, but it does offer an uncrowded climb and some great views.

Two other trails approach the summit from the west, and offer the most gentle climbing by virtue of the fact that they begin five hundred feet higher than the trails approaching from the east. The Ammonoosuc Ravine trail covers ten miles as it climbs the mountain and gains only 3800 feet. This trail still features some sections in which you will have

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