New Hampshire residents, whether or not they're hikers, know to take the dangers of the mountains - extreme weather, sharp descents, animals - seriously. What they may not know is that not all of these dangers can be explained by the physical world. Right on the side of Mount Washington, our state holds one of the scariest places in the country to spend the night.

The Appalachian Mountain Club's Lake of the Clouds Hut has its origins in tragedy. The hut is built on the site of what was originally a shelter built in 1901 in response to the death of two hikers attempting to summit Mount Washington.

Today, it is the highest of the AMC's huts, at an elevation of 5,030 feet, about 1,200 feet below the summit of the mountain.

The hut, which can hold up to 96 hikers in addition to the crew (or "croo") that cooks meals and maintains the hut, is the most popular AMC hut. But that doesn't mean it's smooth sailing for all who stay here.

For years rumors have circulated among the hiking community about "the Presence" that roams the area around the hut, and visits those who would stay within it.

Despite its popularity, Mount Washington is not to be trifled with. The world record for windspeed - 231 mph - was recorded at its peak, and temperatures have reached as low as -50. Over the years, more than 150 recorded hikers have met their demise on the mountain. Many believe the souls of these hikers have never left the mountain. There are so many of these spirits, they're just known all together as "the Presence."

Some years ago, an AMC member named George went to open the hut at the beginning of the season. After he didn't return for two days, a search party was sent in. They found George hiding under a sink, scared out of his mind - he'd been visited by a crowd of ghoulish faces.

Visitors to the hut will even find boots nailed to the wall - it was the only way to stop them from walking after their owner died in a climbing accident.

Hikers must also be careful not to insult the spirits of those who came before them and died in the attempt - those who have made comments too lightly have been struck or pushed by invisible hands.

The good news for frightened hikers is that in the summer, the Lake of the Clouds hut is always full of visitors - so at least you'll have company if you're visited by the Presence. In the off season, you can still stay in the hut, but you'll need more equipment, perseverance, and bravery - it's an awfully long way back to civilization if you suddenly need to flee.

To learn more about the Lake of the Clouds hut and the other AMC huts, visit their website. The hut can be reached by several trails, including those leading from the Cog Railway. Load your backpack and bring all your courage for this hike.