Got up at 4:30 expecting a long day. Left Mizpah Spring Hut and hiked on to Lakes Of The Clouds.

Got a bowl of scrambled eggs and burnt pancakes for second breakfast, then on to Mount Washington. Was an easy climb up there from the hut. A lot of dayhikers and weekenders around, as it is Labour Day Weekend.

Up at the summit we got the quick pic with the sign, then went to the visitor center and got some food. Bit jarring not having a summit to ourselves.

Went on to do the Presidential Traverse, staying above treeline for some eight miles more. Got soup and brownies with Ten Years at Madison Spring Hut, before summiting Madison. Afterwards a long scrambly descent below treeline and set up tent at the Osgood Campsite.

Were in and out of the clouds the whole day, which made for great views, even if we didn’t have any from Washington itself. Was a long and hard day, and we’re almost finished with the Presidentials now. Only five flat miles left for tomorrow, then on to the Wildcats.