Tuckerman Ravine Trail Is Reported To Be The Most Deadly Trail In New Hampshire
By Liz Oliver|Published December 02, 2019
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Liz Oliver
Author
Liz is a Missouri native with a B.A. in English from Mizzou and a M.A. in Non-Profit Administration from Lindenwood University. She works for a STL metro-area community college and enjoys writing, traveling, and indoor cycling. Her true passion is forcing her encyclopedic knowledge of Missouri facts on uninterested strangers from across the globe!
New Hampshire offers hikers miles upon miles of awesome trails. Regardless of your hiking experience, there is the perfect trail for you to explore in the Granite State. However, there are a few trails that should only be traversed by the most experienced hikers, like the Tuckerman Ravine Trail. This trail, while beautiful and challenging, has proven to be deadly for some inexperienced and ill-advised travelers.
Tuckerman Ravine Trails is the most popular path to reach the summit of Mt. Washington and many inexperienced hikers are deceived by the peaceful start of this hike. As of June 2019, 40 hikers have died while on Tuckerman Ravine Trail.
Conditions during summer months make this hike much more manageable. However, temperatures still drop drastically as you reach the peak of Mt. Washington. Experienced hikers can typically complete the hike in six to eight hours, but weather is always a major factor.
Once snow really begins to fall in the mountains, this hike becomes perilous quickly. Last April, a hiker/skier died after becoming trapped in an avalanche. Always be sure to check for advisories issued by the park rangers before departing.
Proper hiking gear is an absolute must. Even during summer months the summit often remains below freezing. Plus winds at the top of the trail can be brutal. Layers of clothing in the summer or snow gear in spring, fall, and winter are a must.
Many ill-prepared hikers have died of hypothermia along the trails of White Mountain National Forest. Although dangerous, the stunning views keep bringing hikers back year after year.
Still the largest risk for injury and death comes from falls. 25 of the 161 hikers who have died in White Mountain National Forest perished from falls on Tuckerman Ravine Trail. Sticking to the trail is extremely important to help reduce your risk of injury or death.
Once at the top, hikers can visit Tip Top House. Constructed in 1853, this historic former hotel is now open to visitors from May until early October for a small fee.
To experienced hikers, this trail may be worth all the trouble. Luckily there are other way to the top for those who still want to see the summit without risking life and limb. The Mount Washington Cog Railway runs to the summit from May until October or you can drive up the Mount Washington Auto Road.
For more information about Tuckerman Ravine Trail or to check conditions, visit the White Mountain National Forest website. If you do decide to take on this trail be prepared with snow gear, a good first-aid kit, and an experienced companion.
Have you hiked Tuckerman Ravine Trail? Tell us about your experience and how you prepared for the hike in the comments below! Interested in some winter fun that is a little less dangerous? Try the longest snow tubing run in New Hampshire for some winter thrills!
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