Mid-Winter view from Lion Head
Tuckerman Ravine
Tucks, as it is know, is a large glacial cirque on the east side of Mt Washington. It is most famous as a late spring ski area, popular equally for the very steep headwall and the party atmosphere. Skiers must hike in via the Tuckerman Ravine trail, carrying skis and boots , then up the headwall to get into position for often a single run per day. The all day party on the Lunch Rocks sends up cheers for the good runs and really yell for the better falls. Just to the south of the ravine is another area for skiing, Hillman's Highway. During the winter, the hike is a technical climb and in spring there is danger from avalanche, ice fall, and crevasse, so pay heed to the Avalanche Bulletin.
In the summer, Tuckerman Ravine is the most popular route to the summit for hikers. The Tuckerman Ravine trail leaves Pinkham Notch and climbs through the ravine, up the headwall, and then up the summit cone. The Boott Spur Link leaves the base of the ravine and climbs the south side to hook up with the Boott Spur trail. The Lion Head trail climbs the northern edge of the ravine, meeting up with the Tuckerman Ravine trail above the headwall. Camping in the ravine is prohibited except at the Hermit Lake shelters, and you must picket up a ticket to stay there at Pinkham Notch. No advanced reservations are allowed. There is a ranger station, known as Hojos at the base of the ravine.
Snow often lingers in the ravine until mid-summer, and the Tuckerman Ravine trail is usually closed for a period of time at the beginning of the summer because of crevasse danger. Take care and always follow the information on signs.
