January 24, 2015 Mt. Monroe, Mt. Washington, & Mt. Jefferson. Peaks # 24-26

We have been watching the weather on Washington every day to see what seems like everlasting 70+ mph winds. The weather spirits smiled on us and gave us a prediction of winds 25 mph to 35 mph with a low of 22 degrees, oh yeah it's a Presidential kind of day. We were able to wear microspikes car to car and at 7:00 AM, we were off.

Jillian on a steep section of Ammonoosuc Ravine Trail

Getting above treeline

We made it to Lakes of the Clouds hut in two hours. Considering the steepness, I was pleased with that. We layered up, had a snack and then we were off to the .3 miles to Mt. Monroe.

Summit of Mt. Monroe

We quickly covered the distance to Mt. Monroe. While at the summit another hiker who had been coming up behind us asked where we were going and, after explaining that his plans for the day had fell apart and was just going to Monroe, asked if he could join up with us for the day. We had no problems with that, and just like that our duo became a trio. It was actually nice to have a stranger with us, as much as I love spending this much time with my Jillian, there is still some of the parent-child tension that exists with most families. Having a new person with us deflected some of Jillian's attention. We quickly covered the distance back to the hut and continued on without pause, pushing right on to Mt. Washington.

Last few steps to Mt. Washington

Summit of Mt. Washington

Looking to the north to our next target.

Gulfside Trail was smooth and fast so we were able to make great time. We went around the summit of Mt. Clay because at this point we don't want Jillian putting any extra hiking energy into something that is not this specific project, and after all, Clay will be there next time.

We did the last push up to Mt. Jefferson, chatted with some people there, snapped a few photos, had a snack and then we were off.

Summit of Mt. Jefferson

We doubled back Gulfside Trail to Jewell Trail. Jewell Trail was in great shape, and once we hit the treeline we were flying down. Today was a great day and it only took seven and a half hours to boot.  I have had fears of nothing but bad weather and never having a chance to get these done, but with these three in the bank, it is starting to feel a lot better.

26 down 22 to go