Ain't No Mountain High Enough

Everyone who has ever set foot on Plymouth State University’s beautiful campus has taken a look around and seen that we are nestled close to the heart of the White Mountains. A very large reason for why students chose to attend Plymouth is directly related to this. Students come to Plymouth to study, but they also come to Plymouth to find themselves, and for many students, the best place to find one’s self is by ‘getting lost in the mountains. Whether it’s at one of the local ski areas exploring some untouched lines, or on one of the infinite hikes this area has to offer, the land surrounding Plymouth State has something for everyone.

Chris Hamilton, an avid hiker and an Environmental Science and Policy major, said that his favorite hike in the area is The Eaglet.

“I really enjoy hiking The Eaglet, because it is a relatively short hike, but it is still steep and does require some rock climbing. The view from the top is beautiful, and occasionally peregrine falcons can be seen flying, which is also really cool.” This hike is around a half hour away from campus near Cannon Mountain.

Another student, junior adventure education major Max Goddard, said “My favorite hike that I have done since my time at Plymouth began has got to be Mount Chocorua. I liked this hike so much, because it was secluded and not a popular hike, so I didn’t see a lot of other hikers, but also because there were shelters along the way, so I was able to campout over night. Whenever anyone asks me what I think they should hike, I always tell them Mount Chocorua.” This hike is only an hour away from Plymouth State and takes an average of six hours to complete.

There are easier hikes than Mount Washington and Mount Chocorua. For those students looking to take on a mellower hike, one of the most popular hikes in the area is Rattlesnake. Located just 15 minutes from Plymouth’s campus, this hike, taking only 30 minutes to reach the top, is not too strenuous. It awards an outstanding view of some of the lakes that this area is famous for. At the top of Rattlesnake, it seems as if it’s the top of the world. The view stretches on for what seems to be endless. A sunset or a sunrise on the top of Rattlesnake is too good to be true. For both hiking enthusiast and people who simply enjoy a nice view, the Plymouth area has something for everyone. Students at Plymouth State are encouraged to go for a hike at least once. The pictures from the top will at least be worth it.