Generations of people have enjoyed AMC’s Huts with their children and grandchildren, and many families return year after year. Here are some tips on how to get started:

Beginner Huts (Best for ages 4-7 and up)
Our easiest huts to get to are Zealand Falls Hut and Lonesome Lake Hut. Both feature short hikes into the hut, water to splash in, and evening naturalist programs geared toward young explorers. Hut crews can also prepare a kid-friendly meal choice on request; we can accommodate most dietary requirements with advance notice. 

Zealand Falls Hut: hike 2.7 miles into the hut, exploring a pond along the way. A small waterfall and stream near the hut offers a cool way to relax on a hot summer day. The trailhead is a short drive or shuttle ride from AMC’s Highland Center. 

Lonesome Lake Hut: hike 1.6 miles into the hut and be rewarded by views of Franconia Ridge across the lake. Smaller bunkrooms for 4-6 people offer more privacy for young families. 

More Adventurous Huts (Best for ages 6-9 and up)
These huts require a longer hike to get to but are below or at treeline and less exposed in bad weather. All offer naturalist programs, kid meal choices, and plenty of day hike options from the hut. Kids can participate in our Junior Naturalist program and earn a special patch during their stay! 

Carter Notch Hut: hike 3.8 miles into the hut, then enjoy the afternoon cooling off in one of two small ponds or scrambling across a scenic boulder field called the Ramparts. More ambitious families may want to hike up to Carter Dome and Mt. Hight. A short drive or shuttle ride from Joe Dodge Lodge. 

Mizpah Spring Hut: hike 2.6 miles into the hut, then enjoy a short hike to 4,000-footer Mt. Pierce to see alpine flowers and view the Northern Presidential Range. Access trail leaves from the Highland Center. 

Greenleaf Hut: hike 2.9 miles to the hut, which sits at treeline with spectacular views of Mt. Lafayette. This hut has a big mountain feel, but hiking to the summit of Lafayette is optional. 

More Challenging Huts (best for ages 9 and up)
These huts are great for kids with some hiking experience who are ready for a 3-4 hour hike in with some exposure to the elements above treeline. Parents will want to make sure kids have proper outerwear and insulating layers to handle all conditions. Older kids may want to take part in our Mountain Watch citizen-science program and learn about the local flora and fauna during an evening program. 

Lakes of the Clouds: hike 3.1 miles to the hut, perched on the shoulder of Mt. Washington. The hut is a great base for exploring the alpine zone.

Madison Spring Hut: hike 3.7 miles and enjoy 360-degree panoramic views of the surrounding Presidentials from the hut.

Galehead Hut: hike 4.6 miles into the hut; from there, climb nearby 4,000-footer South Twin or explore 13 Falls.

Still have questions? Every child is different in their interests and abilities. If you have any questions about choosing the right hut, don’t hesitate to call AMC Reservations at 603-466-2727, Monday-Saturday from 9AM to 5PM. Our staff would be happy to answer any questions you have. 

Looking for a guided trip? We also offer custom guided adventures for families and groups looking for additional support in planning and who want to learn more about the White Mountains from an expert guide. Learn more >>