Cascade and Porter: My First High Peaks

Cascade and Porter are often recommended as starter peaks for someone beginning the 46ers Challenge. You can cover two peaks in a relatively short distance and time, the trails are well indicated and there is nothing technical about the hike.

The trail begins with a steady climb through the forest. Approaching the summit of Cascade, there is a great view and even better view once you reach the peak. The summit is rocky and exposed, making it one of the more scenic of the High Peaks with views of the surrounding area. Porter, on the other hand, was muddy with almost no view at the summit.

The hike was quite a bit longer than it needed to be. First, I missed the turnoff for Porter on the way down from Cascade. Then, I mistook a scenic viewpoint for the summit and turned around. Some fellow hikers I crossed paths with on the way down made me realize this and so I had to go back on my steps again.

As my first solo hike, I didn’t know what to expect. Turns out, I love the time alone in nature which is good news and there is a lot more of this to come.

Details:

• Trailhead: Cascade Mountain Trailhead (roadside parking off Route 73)

• Distance: 11.3 km (7 miles)

• Elevation Gain: 808 m (2,651 feet)

• Time on trail: 5h40