Hike-Swim-Eat Series: Moosilauke-downtown Woodstock waterfalls-Woodstock Inn Station and Brewery9/27/2014 Moosilauke is a fun and very rewarding climb. You get the high alpine experience with a relatively easy, gentle climb. We opted to do a loop, summitting both South Peak and Moosilauke in the process. There are a number of trails up Moosilauke. Our route was about 8 miles and very manageable. I think this hike would be accessible even for families with younger kids - maybe as young as third grade. We started at the Ravine Lodge. To get there, take 93 to exit 32. Follow 112 west for about 3 miles to route 118. Follow 118 for about 7 miles to Ravine Road. Ravine Road is a dirt road that will take you to Ravine Lodge. There are bathrooms and a place to fill water bottles at the lodge. From the Ravine Lodge, we took Snapper to the South Peak, then hiked over to Moosilauke, then continued on the Carriage Road and finally back to Gorge Brook Trail for the descent. It was an overcast day so we didn't have great views, but the atmosphere on the summit was still really cool. It's a long walk above treeline, with a huge summit area for hanging out and having a snack...or a nap. It feels a lot like being on top of the Lafayette Ridge or the Presidentials, but is an easier climb, in my opinion. After the hike, we drove back on 112 east until we hit route 3, which runs through Woodstock. Woodstock is one of the cutest towns I've ever seen, full of New England charm and mountain culture. Near the center of town is a charming inn and brewery, the Woodstock Inn Station and Brewery. This has been one of my favorite pit stops over the years after a day of cross-country skiing or hiking up north. Across the street from the inn is a small town park. This is a great place for a quick plunge or ride down a natural waterslide in the Pemigewasset River. It's chilly, but refreshing. Just follow the crosswalk across from the inn, then the path to some stairs. There is nowhere to change or use a bathroom, so you need to get creative in your car, or, if you're lucky enough to be female, purchase and use a "changing room skirt", which provides a clever and effective way to change just about anywhere. Mine came in handy multiple times this summer. And even though there are no facilities,there is fresh, cool water, and flat, sunny rocks to lie on to warm up after a quick dip. The menu at the Brewery is extensive, with a little bit of everything. The men all got burgers, and I got an order of what were, in my opinion, the best sweet potato fries ever, and a fantastic Greek salad. As the name would imply, you can get beers that are brewed on site, as well as fresh-brewed root beer. In my pre-gluten free days, I used to enjoy getting a flight of beers to sample the different brews, and I would highly recommend this route if you enjoy beer at all. Pricing is moderate - plan on $15 per person if you stick to sandwiches/burgers/salads. I've never had a disappointing meal here.
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AuthorI'm Emily. I currently work in online education management, but I also have a Masters degree in Nutritional Sciences (my true passion). In addition, I am a mom, cook, avid reader, novice gardener, and enjoy all kinds of outdoor activities. On my blog, you will find articles on food, fitness, weight management, and eating issues. ALL recipes on my blog are gluten-free. Many are low-carbohydrate. Most are grain free. Enjoy! Categories
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