Krypteia 2 - The Pemi Loop

Spartan men, after finishing their brutal adolescent training period known as "The Agogi" could then prove themselv's worty of military service by participating in the Krypteia. Armed with a knife and their wits, they were allowed to descend on the outlying villages of Sparta and terrorize the slave or "helot" population that lived there. The ultimate test of survival, killing and pillaging for food reward, the elite were singled out for leadership roles later in life.

The Pemi Loop is kind of like that for me. When I started hiking these mountains I always said the goal was to have it all wrapped up before I turned 30. That was obvioulsy a younger, less experienced hiker boasting hubris, as these peaks have turned out to be no small endeavor indeed. I can however, meet that goal 1/2 way @ 24 peaks, if I can pull it off the hike of a lifetime that is.

This thursday a few friends and I will attempt a 33 mile 3 day adventure in the Pemigwasset Wilderness within the White Mountain National Forest. An epic journey across 10 mountains above 4000 feet, breathtaking 360 views from large sections of exposed ridgline.

Mt Liberty, Franconia Ridge, Mt Garfield, Galehead Hut, Guyot & the Bonds w/legendary Bondcliff. Lincoln Woods trailhead - there and back again. Staying at Liberty Spring or Garfield Ridge depending on how early we start, try to get a spot @ Guyot for Night 2. Its a dream if a hike and I can't believe we are actually doing it. I have my hammock and some MREs, full trip report to follow....