Thrilling Off-Piste Ski Expeditions in the Wilderness
Explore the winter wonderlands of the Northeast with some of the region's most renowned backcountry skiing trails. David Goodman's "Best Backcountry Skiing in the Northeast" book from AMC Books provides an extensive guide to over 50 backcountry ski routes, tailored to the unique conditions of the region.
One such trail is Mount Moosilauke in Warren, NH. Situated along the Carriage Road, this 5.7-mile one-way route offers a challenging ascent of more than 2,700 feet, taking skiers to the summit with stunning views. The trail starts at the northern terminus of Breezy Point Road, off Route 118, at the site of the former Breezy Point Hotel.
Another trail worth exploring is the Long Trail in Vermont. The 5.7-mile stretch between Mad River Glen and Sugarbush ski areas in Stowe, VT, offers challenging backcountry skiing with breathtaking views of Lake Champlain and the Adirondack Mountains. The Long Trail's Monroe Skyline route requires starting at Mad River Glen, which allows uphill skiing and offers cheaper lift passes, and heading south toward Sugarbush, with a stop at the Castle Rock warming hut along the way.
In the White Mountains of New Hampshire, Mount Washington and its surrounding areas are popular destinations for backcountry skiers. The Old Jackson Road trail gradually ascends along the base of Mount Washington and offers scenic views of the Gulf of Slides and Huntington Ravine. The trail merges with the Appalachian Trail a mile from the summit, emerging above treeline, providing a 360-degree view that includes the Green Mountains of Vermont and New Hampshire's White Mountains.
For those seeking adventure in New York, Mount Marcy, the highest peak in the state, offers diverse and exciting backcountry terrain. Access the mountain by parking at the Adirondack Mountain Club's High Peaks Information Center and following Van Hoevenberg Trail for a 14.4-mile round trip, including a 6.8-mile rigorous climb to the exposed summit.
In the Greenville, Maine, area, AMC's Maine Wilderness Lodges, specifically Little Lyford Lodge & Cabins and Gorman Chairback Lodge & Cabins, offer multiple days of backcountry skiing. The trail begins at the northern terminus of Breezy Point Road, off Route 118, and the distance from the winter parking area to either lodge is 7 miles (Little Lyford) and 8.3 miles (Gorman Chairback) respectively.
For more information on these trails and many other winter adventures, refer to David Goodman's "Best Backcountry Skiing in the Northeast" book from AMC Books. Additionally, the Green Mountain Club provides information on Vermont's Long Trail, and the White Mountains Guide, 29th ed. (AMC Books) and White Mountain Guide Online offer detailed information on these backcountry skiing locations.
Whether you're a seasoned skier or just starting out, the Northeast offers a wealth of opportunities for backcountry skiing. Consulting guides like Goodman's book can help you discover the perfect trail for your next winter adventure.
Sports enthusiasts would be thrilled to tackle the challenging ascent of Mount Moosilauke in Warren, NH, a 5.7-mile one-way backcountry ski route that offers breathtaking views from the summit. Beyond the Northeast, explore the diverse and exciting backcountry terrain of Mount Marcy in New York, the state's highest peak.
