The Doubleheads (Jackson, NH): 18-Dec-2009

[1HappyHiker]

It's easy to understand why the Doubleheads in Jackson, NH are so named. They appear as a "double-headed" mountain regardless of whether you're viewing them from a distant mountaintop, or from an up-close location such the Black Mountain Ski area as shown in the photo below.

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I did the loop hike over South and North Doublehead which involves starting at the trailhead off Dundee Road in Jackson, NH, and then hiking the Doublehead Ski Trail plus the Old Path and the New Path. Although this loop is just shy of 4 miles, there's nearly 1,800 ft of elevation gain. So, although the mileage is relatively short, it provides a pretty good workout!

For me, the highlight of this hike is the view of the Carter Notch, as shown below in the slightly zoomed photo.

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Also, the view toward the Presidential Range is pretty nice as well.

http://lh3.ggpht.com/_jMddpAdzX0E/Syw9wuBo8II/AAAAAAAAGX8/IJFXljKlPQU/s800/P1030462.JPG

North Doublehead provides some interesting views to the east. I especially like the close-up view of Mountain Pond.

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It's been a number of years since I've done this loop hike, and I felt the need to repeat it. I was happy that I did. It fit my available time frame for hiking, and with the rather "generous" elevation gain, it provided a workout on par with a much longer hike!:)

1HappyHiker

[KD Talbot]

Great report, John! Stunning pictures! Have only been here once. Need to return!

KDT

[Jimmy Legs and Little d]

John,
Thanks for such great pictures from your hike. A few years back we did the loop 3 times within a year and a half period. I guess you could say Doubleheads are one of our favorite hikes. :D
The views are terrific for the effort.

Donna:)

[redthorne]

Black Mtn is one of my favorite areas to downhill ski. It's not a huge place, but the people are very cordial and you cannot beat the views. Great for a laid back day of cruising on smaller terrain.

[Anna LeBlanc]

Thanks for the beautiful pictures John.I'm looking at them as the weathermen here are saying we're getting anywhere from 15-18 inches of snow tonight and tomorrow.Maybe I have some new snow pictures to post from home tomorrow night.:p

______________

Anna

[mtruman]

Beautiful John! Just a picture perfect day up there and those views certainly prove it. I love the perspective on Carter Notch and the Presis.

[CHRIS]

Great report and beautiful pictures. Looks like it was a perfect day for a hike.

[1HappyHiker]

Thank you everyone for your replies!:)

Although I forgot to mention it in my report, I think many folks are already aware of the 8-person Doublehead Cabin that can be rented (click HERE (http://www.recreation.gov/recAreaDetails.do?contractCode=NRSO&facilityId=375088&contractCode=131) for details).
It's located on North Doublehead at the top of the Doublehead Ski Trail.


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[Snow Miser]

Beautiful pictures John! What a perfect day to be out there. Thanks for sharing.

[TrishandAlex]

Wow, great hike. Good to know there's a cabin up there too! Thanks for sharing this information and, as always, taking such wonderful pictures.

[Brown Bear]

Heading to Doublehead this weekend. Looking forward to snow on the trail. It's always a great hike and a superb summit. Perhaps may visit Iron John whilst there.