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Jefferson, Adams and Madison, New Hampshire

Three massive Presidential Range peaks in one epic climb.
Rating: 5 out of 5 by EveryTrail members
Difficulty: Strenuous
Length: 13 miles
Duration: Full day

Overview :  This is the shortest and easiest way to climb all 3 major Northern Presidential Peaks in a day. The Caps Ridge Trail up Mt. Jefferson... more »

Tips:  Caps Ridge Trailhead:
This is the highest trailhead in the White Mountains at 3,008 feet and also is the shortest with the least... more »

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Points of Interest

1. Caps Ridge Trailhead

Park here. $3 per day parking fee. This is the closest and easiest route up Mt. Jefferson.

2. Caps Ridge Views

Panoramic views north to Adams & Madison and south to massive Mt. Washington. You are now leaving treeline for the rest of the day. You will be climbing steeply up this ridge.

3. Mt. Jefferson Summit

At 5,712 you are now at the top of the 3rd highest peak in New Hampshire! Continue on to Mt. Adams, the 2nd.

4. Mt. Adams Summit

At 5,798' this is the 2nd highest summit in the state. Enjoy the views back towards Jefferson and Washington behind it and your next goal, Madison straight ahead to the north.

5. Descending Around Quincy Adams

If you can find a place to scramble up to the top of Quincy Adams up to your left feel free but be careful. We chose to pass it up as it is really just a bump on the side of Adams and isn't in any peak lists anyway. Your destination is Star Lake ahead and the AMC Madison Hut.

6. Star Lake & AMC Hut

Here you will find an alpine lake, the Madison Hut and as my track points out a huge outcrop of why they call it the "White Mountains" - White Quartz. It's a huge outcrop you should definitely get a picture with. From here check out the hut and then head up to the top of your final peak.

7. Mt. Madison Summit

At 5,363' this is the northermost peak of the famous Presidential Range. Now turn around and huff it back the way you came! :)