Trekking the Belknap 12: A Journey of Growth and Adventure

Hiking has always been a passion, a way to connect with nature and challenge oneself against the backdrop of breathtaking landscapes. As a hiker who completed the New Hampshire 48 four thousand footers in 2020 and was now working on completing my New England 67, the Belknap had always seemed “too easy”. This was until, I adopted my Samoyed Puppy, Haley, who loved adventurous and especially hiking. I needed hikes where I could train her to be ready to hike bigger mountains like the NH48. So we started the Belknap 12.

The Belknap Range, nestled in central New Hampshire, boasts a collection of twelve prominent peaks, collectively known as the Belknap 12. These peaks, ranging from moderate to challenging in terms of hiking difficulty, offer an exquisite blend of diverse trails, stunning vistas, and varying terrains. From the iconic Mount Major or ski resort Gunstock to the often less-traveled gems like Straightback Mountain and Piper Mountain, each summit presents its own unique allure. The Belknap 12 provide hikers with an opportunity to explore a mosaic of forests, rocky outcrops, and panoramic viewpoints, making it an ideal playground for both seasoned adventurers and those seeking to build their hiking prowess. Completing this circuit is not just a physical feat; it’s an immersive journey through the heart of New Hampshire’s wilderness, a testament to perseverance, and a gateway to awe-inspiring natural beauty.

My decision to embark on this journey wasn’t solely driven by the desire to conquer peaks but also to train Haley. Training a furry companion like Haley amidst the Belknap 12 peaks was an adventure within an adventure. Each trail became a classroom for Haley, a place where she learned the language of the wilderness and the rhythm of the trails. Starting with shorter, less challenging routes and gradually progressing to more demanding trails, Haley grew from a curious pup to a confident trail companion. The Belknap Range provided the perfect terrain for her education—rocky paths to navigate, streams to cross, and varying elevations to conquer. With patience and encouragement, Haley learned to maneuver obstacles, respond to commands, and embrace the camaraderie of hiking. Beyond the technical skills, these hikes forged an unbreakable bond between us, strengthening our trust and communication. As the Belknap 12 became our training ground, Haley not only embraced the trails but also became an my hiking buddy, ready to tackle every adventures together.

Hiking Whiteface and Piper on that crisp December day marked the beginning of our journey through the Belknap 12. Despite the typical expectations of December weather in New Hampshire, the absence of snow granted us unexpected ease on the trails. The crisp air infused us with a sense of adventure as we ascended Whiteface, the crispness of the winter air invigorating us. The trail unfolded before us, revealing picturesque views and winding paths that Haley navigated with enthusiasm. Piper Mountain offered a serene contrast, its quiet trails allowing us to immerse ourselves in the tranquility of nature. The absence of snow unveiled the rugged beauty of these peaks in a different light, a testament to the versatility of the trails and the ever-changing face of the wilderness. This snowless winter hike etched an indelible memory, setting the tone for our forthcoming adventures amid the Belknap 12.

Our trek on February 18, 2023, weaving through Anna, Mack, Klem, Rand, Quarry West, and Straightback, was a masterclass in resilience and adaptability. The trails, draped in a pristine blanket of snow, presented a whole new set of obstacles and triumphs. The absence of fresh snow but a substantial amount covering the terrain added an extra layer of complexity, testing our endurance and adaptability. The icy and rocky scramble demanded our utmost focus, each step a deliberate maneuver through the wintry landscape. For Haley, this adventure meant navigating through snowbanks and icy patches, adapting seamlessly to the changing conditions—a testament to her evolving skills as a trail companion. Despite the unfamiliarity of the trails, their paths led us through a mesmerizing winter wonderland, rewarding our efforts with breathtaking views and a sense of accomplishment with each conquered peak. This trip became not only a training ground for enduring longer hikes and diverse terrains but also a testament to the exhilarating beauty of exploring uncharted trails in the midst of a snow-laden landscape.

Taking a break from hiking after the challenging trek through Anna, Mack, Klem, Rand, Quarry West, and Straightback became a necessary pause in our adventurous journey. Following an injury sustained during a winter expedition to Mount Katahdin in March, our hiking endeavors took an unexpected pause. The injury necessitated a period of rest and recovery, prompting us to step back from the trails for a while. However, life had more surprises in store as we soon discovered that I was pregnant. The initial euphoria of this revelation was accompanied by the challenges of a rough first trimester, which demanded utmost care and attention. The hiatus from hiking, though unplanned, provided a silver lining—a chance to prioritize health, both physical and maternal, and to recalibrate our perspectives amidst the unforeseen twists and turns that life often presents. But as my pregnancy progressed, I felt the pull back to the mountains. The Belknap Range stood as a familiar yet inviting challenge—a perfect reentry point into our outdoor escapades. While the 4000 footers posed a daunting endeavor during this phase, returning to the Belknap peaks felt like a comforting embrace, offering a balance between the call of the trails and the need for cautious, fulfilling adventures amidst the changing seasons and the new chapter of impending parenthood.

October 22, 2023, marked a memorable return to the trails as we ventured to conquer Piper and Gunstock via the Gunstock Resort side was a deliberate choice rooted in caution yet brimming with adventure. Opting for the Piper trail as our starting point felt like stepping into familiar territory, a reassuring beginning to our hike. The decision to traverse the ridge toward Gunstock carried an underlying sense of security—the proximity to the resort meant that if unforeseen challenges arose, assistance would likely be within reach. Ascending Piper first, its winding paths gradually led us to the connecting ridge. This transition from Piper to Gunstock along the ridge presented a delightful blend of rugged terrain and stunning vistas, each step offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The trail, adorned with the colorful hues of autumn, seemed to weave its way through a canvas of natural beauty. Despite the sense of safety afforded by the nearby resort, the hike remained a test of skill and endurance, allowing us to savor the essence of the Belknap Range while keeping a cautious eye on the trail ahead.

Embarking on Belknap Mountain‘s trails on November 5, 2023, accompanied by Haley, our loyal pup, and friend Eden, was a rejuvenating escape into nature’s embrace. Opting for a brisk hike served as a refreshing interlude, a much-needed dose of outdoor therapy to invigorate our spirits. The ascent up Belknap Mountain, while a quick jaunt, offered an abundance of natural splendor. Haley’s infectious energy and Eden’s camaraderie added a delightful dimension to the hike, infusing the trail with shared laughter and companionship. The crisp autumn air filled our lungs, and the panoramic views from the trail provided a scenic respite—a momentary pause from life’s whirlwind. This brief but fulfilling excursion underscored the restorative power of nature, reaffirming the importance of seizing every opportunity for outdoor adventures, no matter how fleeting, to nourish the soul and nurture lasting connections with both friends and the great outdoors.

Venturing up Mount Major on Black Friday 2023 alongside Haley and my husband, Derrick, via the Boulder Loop trail, was a serendipitous finale to our Belknap 12 journey. Despite the holiday rush, the trail welcomed us with a surprising tranquility—a rare gift on such a bustling day. As we ascended, Haley’s enthusiasm echoed our excitement, her tail wagging in rhythm with our steps. The Boulder Loop’s scenic twists and turns unveiled breathtaking views, offering a serene yet invigorating atmosphere. The absence of crowds allowed us to relish the solitude, savoring the bond forged through countless trails together. Derrick, Haley, and I reveled in the beauty of the ascent, appreciating the tranquility that surrounded us. Reaching the summit felt like reaching a pinnacle—not just of a mountain, but of our Belknap 12 quest. The panoramic vista served as a fitting closure, a picturesque reminder of the trails conquered, memories created, and the unbreakable bond formed amid these peaks. As we descended, the quiet trail seemed to whisper its farewells, marking the end of an incredible chapter while leaving us eager for the adventures that lay ahead.

Completing the Belknap 12 was more than just ticking off peaks; it was a journey etched with challenges, growth, and an abundance of cherished moments. As we bid farewell to these familiar trails, we do so with hearts full of gratitude for the experiences they’ve granted us. Yet, our adventures are far from over. With the impending arrival of our baby girl, a new chapter unfolds—one filled with the promise of introducing her to the wonders of nature, of sharing our love for the trails, and of forging new paths as a family. As the winter descends and blankets the landscapes with snow, we eagerly await the chance to introduce our little one to the magic of the outdoors, to witness her eyes light up at the sight of snowy trails, and to embark on fresh adventures together. The Belknap 12 may mark the end of a specific quest, but it’s merely a prologue to the countless journeys that await us as a growing family, each one a tale waiting to be written amid the beauty of nature’s embrace.