Context and Motivation

Henry T. Folsom's narrative begins with his completion of climbing all the Four Thousand Footers of New Hampshire by the summer of 1969. Having achieved this milestone, he finds himself at a crossroads, contemplating what new challenge could occupy his six weeks of vacation in New Hampshire for the year 1970. His deep familiarity with the Presidentials and his extensive experience in Randolph lay the groundwork for seeking a novel and original climbing endeavor.

The Concept of "Direttissima"

The term "Direttissima" is pivotal to Folsom's new climbing challenge. Traditionally, "Direttissima" implies taking the most direct route to a peak, often involving steep, unmarked paths. Folsom reinterprets this concept to fit his practical approach to mountaineering. He decides against the impractical and hazardous approach of bushwhacking through dense forests and rugged terrain. Instead, he adapts "Direttissima" to mean covering the shortest possible distance on foot while utilizing existing trails and roads. This redefinition allows for a more sustainable and safer journey while still embracing the spirit of the challenge.

Establishing Rules for the Journey

Folsom outlines four critical rules to guide his ambitious project:

1. Reaching Each Summit by Foot: This rule ensures that the integrity of climbing each of the forty-six peaks is maintained. He emphasizes the necessity of physically climbing to each summit without any shortcuts or mechanical aids.

2. Continuous Foot Travel: Folsom commits to walking the entire route, including the stretches between mountains. This rule ensures the challenge's physical rigor and continuity, avoiding any breaks in the journey's flow.

3. No Bushwhacking: By adhering to established trails and roads, Folsom aims to avoid the dangers and difficulties of off-trail navigation. This rule reflects a respect for both personal safety and environmental preservation, recognizing the chaos that unstructured bushwhacking could create.

4. Style Precedent: Rev. Folsom's approach to the challenge was unique; he hiked the peaks over 19 non-continuous days, often returning home at night. Because of this, Folsom set the precedent that a White Mountains Direttissima need not be completed in any one particular style to be considered successful. A hiker can approach this route in a supported, self-supported, or unsupported fashion as long as their footsteps are connected.

Daily Itinerary and Specific Routes

Folsom meticulously plans his daily routes, demonstrating his thorough preparation and understanding of the terrain. Each day's itinerary is laid out with specific trails, distances, and notable features:

Henry T. Folsom's ambitious project to traverse the Four Thousand Footers of New Hampshire "Direttissima" involves a meticulously planned daily itinerary. Each day is carefully outlined to ensure he covers the necessary summits while adhering to his rules of continuous foot travel, avoiding bushwhacking, and utilizing existing trails and roads. Here is a detailed summary of his day-to-day mileage:

Day 1 (6/18/70) Route: York Pond, Bunnell Notch, and Cabot Trails. Mileage: 14.14 miles (6.3 miles on roads).

Day 2 (6/19) Route: Waumbek, via Starr King Trail and unofficial trail to Waumbek, and back via the same path. Mileage: 15.6 miles (8.0 miles on roads).

Day 3 (7/9) Route: Jefferson, Adams, and Madison, via Castle Ridge Trail, Jefferson Loop, Gulfside, Israel Ridge Trail, Airline, and Gulfside to the Madison Hut. Mileage: 14.72 miles (2.15 miles on roads).

Day 4 (7/27) Route: Moriah, via North end of Imp Trail, North Carter, and Carter-Moriah Trails. Mileage: 9.7 miles.

Day 5 (7/28) Route: Mid-Carter, South Carter, Carter Dome, Wildcat, and Wildcat E. Mileage: 12.9 miles.

Day 6 (7/31) Route: Isolation and Washington, via Davis Path, Glen Boulder, and down via Tuckerman. Mileage: 11.0 miles.

Day 7 (8/3) Route: Monroe, Pleasant, Clinton, and Jackson, to Crawford Notch via Webster Cliff. Mileage: 11.0 miles (4.0 miles on roads).

Day 8 (8/6) Route: Tom, Field, and Willey, to Ethan Pond and Desolation Trail. Mileage: 14.27 miles.

Day 9 (8/7) Route: Carrigain, via Desolation and Signal Ridge Trails. Mileage: 14.85 miles (2.25 miles on roads).

Day 10 (8/13) Route: Passaconaway, Whiteface, via Rollins Trail and Tripyramid. Mileage: 18.2 miles (3.2 miles on roads).

Day 11 (8/17) Route: Tecumseh, from Tripoli Road via the parking lot and ski center. Mileage: 8.2 miles (2.8 miles on roads).

Day 12 (8/20) Route: Osceola and East Peak, via Osceola and Greeley Pond Trails. Mileage: 7.9 miles (0.8 miles on roads).

Day 13 (8/24) Route: South Hancock and Hancock, via Cedar Brook Trail and Wilderness Trail. Mileage: 12.20 miles.

Day 14 (8/25) Route: Bond, West Bond, Zealand, and Hale. Mileage: 13.55 miles.

Day 15 (8/28) Route: South Twin and North Twin, to Galehead Hut. Mileage: 12.0 miles.

Day 16 (8/29) Route: Owl’s Head and Garfield, via Twin Brook and Lincoln Brook Trails. Mileage: 15.22 miles.

Day 17 (8/30) Route: Lafayette, Lincoln, Liberty, and Flume, via Falling Waters Trail. Mileage: 13.95 miles.

Day 18 (9/1) Route: Cannon, North Kinsman, and South Kinsman, via Lonesome Lake and Hi-Cannon Trails to Cannon, Kinsman Ridge Trail to Kinsman Notch. Mileage: 18.25 miles (including an unintended detour).

Day 19 (9/3) Route: Moosilauke, via Beaver Brook Trail. Mileage: 6.4 miles for a grand total of 244.05 miles (242.9 miles without bushwhacking).

Challenges and Observations

Folsom encounters several challenges that test his resolve and adaptability:

* Trail Conditions: He notes the variability in trail maintenance, with some paths being clear and well-marked, while others are difficult to follow or in disrepair.

* Navigational Issues: Instances of confusing or incorrect trail guides lead to minor detours and adjustments. Folsom's ability to navigate these challenges highlights his experience and resourcefulness.

* Safety Concerns: Folsom is acutely aware of the importance of safety, both for himself and for future hikers. He mentions the need for proper trail maintenance and the risks posed by those who neglect or vandalize trail infrastructure.

Total Mileage and Reflective Insights

Folsom's meticulous tracking of his journey results in an estimated total mileage of 244.05 miles. He acknowledges a slight overestimation due to navigational errors but maintains that his adherence to the rules and the spirit of the challenge remains intact. His reflections on the journey emphasize the importance of preparation, respect for the land, and the camaraderie among the White Mountains hiking community.

Environmental and Ethical Considerations

Folsom's narrative underscores a deep respect for the White Mountains National Forest. His decision to avoid bushwhacking and his emphasis on using established trails reflect a commitment to minimizing his ecological footprint. Furthermore, his critique of those who vandalize trail infrastructure highlights the ethical responsibilities of hikers to preserve and protect the natural beauty and safety of the trails for future generations.

Conclusion

Henry T. Folsom's "Direttissima" project serves as an inspiring example of innovative thinking within the realm of hiking and mountaineering. His interesting adaptation of the "Direttissima" concept, combined with his rigorous adherence to self-imposed rules, showcases the potential for creativity and challenge in familiar landscapes. Folsom's journey is not only a personal triumph but also a testament to the values of thinking outside of the box when it comes to your own hiking and endurance pursuits.