Making a wknd out of Tom,Field and Willey

[lisa_j]

Hi All,
We're getting ready for another backcountry weekend in the Whites, and this time we're taking my 11-year-old cousin. Boy is she in for a treat!

Since I haven't been on this trail yet, I'd be interested in hearing opinions from you experienced (and very helpful!) folks.
Our proposed itinerary is to pick up the shuttle at Highland Center to the Zealand Falls trailhead. From there we'll hike in, set up a camp somewhere along the A-Z trail between Zealand and Tom, summit Mt. Tom and camp out for the night.
On day 2, we'll pick up camp, summit Field and Willey and set up camp somewhere on the A-Z trail between Tom and the Avalon Trailhead.
Day 3 we'll pack out to our car.

This is our first experience with the shuttle - is it as easy as making a reservation and just showing up?
Is this a cool route to do for a 2-nighter?
Will we find adequate camping along the A-Z trail (not too muddy)?

Any comments would be greatly appreciated!
Thanks in advance :)
Lisa

[mtruman]

The shuttle is definitely easy. Make reservation, pay and be there at the scheduled time. The tend to be right on schedule too.

The route sounds like a nice one for a leisurely 3 day. Make sure that you hit Mt Avalon too. One of the best views you're going to get on these summits and a very short side trip off the Avalon trail.

Afraid I can't comment on the campsite potential but there are plenty of others here who I'm sure can.

Hope you have a great trip!

[lisa_j]

Thanks mtruman,
We will have to make sure we make it to the top of Avalon - looks like it's not too far out of the way, especially for the best view!

I guess we'll try our luck with the camping, I'm sure it will be fine.
I'll post a TR when we get back!

L