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The unnamed peak with summit elevation 4357 in the far N region of the Pemigewasset Wilderness is often referred to as SW Twin, and attracted little attention from hikers until publication of the Trailwrights list of 72 4000-footers. This is probably the most difficult peak on the list and only a few groups climb it each year. Once you get there, you can peer out among the trees for views of the surrounding peaks. This is a long hike by any route and an early start and plenty of spare flashlight batteries are recommended.
Location: White Mountains Region
NH 2004-2005 map H-7
DeLorme NHA&G 43-E14 - Franconia
Although the summit is within the town limits of Franconia, it is usually approached from Lincoln
(Exit 32 of I-93) or Twin Mountain (Exit 35 of I-93)
Owner: White Mountain National Forest
Special regulations: Pemigewasset Wilderness
One popular approach is from the Lincoln Woods Visitor Information Center off NH Route 112. Take the Lincoln Woods Trail/Wilderness Trail to just beyond a bridge crossing Franconia Brook. Turn L on the Franconia Brook Trail, where what used to be easy railroad walking is now harder because of flooding by beavers and limited maintenance due to Wilderness policy. About 3.5 miles from the junction the trail crosses Redrock Brook, and you can either continue half a mile farther on the trail and then bushwhack up the SW ridge or else bushwhack over a mile up Redrock Brook and pick up the steeper S ridge. Steepest of all is to ascend straight up from the scenic pond at the head of Redrock Brook. Generally there are more hardwoods particularly birch lower down and more softwoods higher up, with hardwood areas being better travelling.
Another approach is from the Twinway about .6 miles SE of the summit of South Twin Mountain. This is about the same trail distance as the other approach but much tougher walking, involving rocky ascents of 4000-foot mountains instead of gentle railroad grades and you have to climb them again on the return! The bushwhack is entirely in softwoods, mostly medium-sized where you walk between the trunks and snap off dead branches although there is a band of smaller green-branches-in-your-face near the trail. There is also a blowdown area near the summit with no easy bypass. Unless you have another reason to visit South Twin, the Franconia Brook approach is probably easier.
SW Twin from South Twin [6/04]
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