From NH 16 in Pinkham Notch
The Wildcats are a gnarly set of mountains positioned on part of the Appalachian Trail. Our hike in early September was a perfect time of year to meet up with thru hikers of the AT. We met up with so many interesting people and really felt inspired from their stories.
Many of the thru hikers shared that they had been dreading this section. The Wildcats gain elevation quickly and continue to drop and rise in elevation as you make your way across A, B, C, D, and E. Much of the trail is a nasty scramble up rocks and really calls to hikers that like heights.
We had attempted the Wildcats many, many years ago so we knew exactly where to find the trail. It can be tricky to locate. After going under route 16 look immediately to your left and follow the highway for 20 yards or so. The trail then crosses the river and is easy to follow there after.
The river crossing is generally one of the easier crossings, but of course can be complicated during times of high water.
Expect to be exhausted no matter what shape you are in. The Wildcats are awesome and gnarly and relentless, even though the mileage does not reflect that. Out and backs are particularly challenging because you have to climb each of the peaks essentially twice (once for out and again for back).
Looking at the Presidentials; Hidden under clouds
Another challenge for the out and back hikers is knowing which peak you are on. Wildcats D,C, and B are very unceremonious Knowing when to turn back is a little tricky. Other hikers we passed that taken the route in the opposite direction seemed to be no better off than we were for location. A little tricky so keep your map handy.
Wildcat Mountain Summit Area
Bark Mask
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