Have an avid winter hiker in your life and don't know what to get them? Don't worry, we've got you covered.

Base Layer

Our Top Pick: Flume Baselayer $89.95-$99.95

Picked by Field and Stream Magazine as the #1 Overall Hiking Shirt in 2021, you can't go wrong with the Flume. Made of a Tencel (91%) and Spandex (9%) blend, the Flume allows for a full range of motion, is naturally wicking, odor resistant, and smooth and comfortable on your skin. Also, it has extended length so your lower back isn't exposed to the winter cold, and thumbhole loops for maximum coverage. The Flume is available in Crewneck and 1/4 Zip styles. Opt for the 1/4 Zip for optimal breathability and some extra style points.

Shop the rest of our Base Layers

Mid Layer

Our Top Pick: Franconia $179.00

Using Polartec 4-Way Power Stretch, the Franconia has superior movement and fit. Two chest pockets and two interior pockets, big enough to fit a large phone, wallet, keys, and more. The Franconia also features a built-in balaclava and flexible hood that keeps you warm yet allows you to breath.

Unfortunately, we're out of stock in women's Franconias. If you're shopping for a woman then we recommend our Bond 1/4 Zip. The Bond uses Polartec Thermal Pro, a fast drying and highly durable fleece material. It works great worn over a Flume Baselayer and comes in thumbhole loop and standard cuff options.

Shop the rest of our Mid Layers

Outer Layer

Our Top Pick: Washington Outer Layer $199-$249

The Washington is an ideal Soft Shell for winter hiking. It has a DWR finish for water resistance so you're protected from snow, rain, and sleet. Features include 5 exterior pockets and a built-in balaclava and a flexible hood. It fits over our Franconia Mid Layer and is a must-have for winter hikers, backcountry skiers, and cross-country skiers.

Shop the rest of our Outer Layers

Accessories

Our Picks: Power Stretch Fleece Hat $39.95 + Burgeon Nalgene Bottle $19.99

Two stocking stuffers the hiker in your life is sure to enjoy. Our Power Stretch Fleece Hat is made of the same material as our Franconia Mid Layer. It wicks away moisture while keeping you warm. 32 oz Nalgene bottles are a necessity for any hiker heading out on the trails. 

Shop our Winter '22 Collection

Textile and clothing manufacturing has a long, dark history of creating waste and exploiting workers. How do you change an industry when you are a new company? How do you develop and innovate new ways to manufacture clothing that are better for the environment, the people who make the products, and their communities?

Burgeon Outdoor, founded in Lincoln, NH, is paving the way for a more sustainable, community-driven textile manufacturing model. By investing in the environment, people, and communities where they operate, Burgeon is reinventing the apparel industry one garment at a time, while providing a model to reinvent capitalism as a whole.

The first article in this series detailed how Burgeon economically impacts its people and community. Sourcing domestically, making their products locally, and having all employees participate in the success of the business are just some facets of the Burgeon way. Equally important is Burgeon’s impact on the environment and their community.

Burgeon uses natural, organic, and recycled materials whenever possible. These materials lessen the impact of their production on the environment.

Their award winning Flume Baselayer is 91 percent Tencel. Tencel is a unique fiber consisting of natural cellulose fibers made from wood pulp. Tencel is naturally breathable, odor-resistant, quick drying, thermoregulating, and very comfortable. Tencel is not only a sustainable choice, but it also outperforms synthetic fibers.

When using synthetic fibers, Burgeon strives to use recycled materials whenever possible. All the products in their Campfire Fleece collection are made of Polartec Thermal Pro, which has 92 percent recycled polyester content. Their popular graphic T-shirts are a 50/50 combination of organic cotton and recycled polyester. The most recent version of their popular Sunseeker Hoodie is 75 percent recycled polyester, 19 percent tencel, and six percent spandex.

There is a great deal of waste in the textile industry. According to the Ellen MacArthur Foundation, every second, the equivalent of a garbage truckload of fabric is either burned or buried in a landfill. Tens of millions of tons of fabric are discarded annually, and many of those fabrics are still usable or at the very least recyclable. Burgeon Outdoor is interrupting the cycle of waste by utilizing these overstocks in multiple product lines.

To highlight the importance of environmental sustainability, Burgeon recently launched its Pemi Hoodie. This stylish hoodie is made exclusively of first quality deadstock fabric. Deadstock fabric is first quality fabric that is overproduced in error, dyed the wrong color, or canceled by the customer. In many cases, deadstock material is sent to the landfill.  

In a few short weeks, Burgeon will be launching its Tuckerman Jacket and Snow Pants. Just like the Pemi Hoodie, these breathable and waterproof products will be made entirely from the canceled fabric orders of other brands. By utilizing this material, Burgeon can make a first class hardshell jacket with a much lower impact on the environment than its peers.

Creating a positive impact in the local community is a critical part of how Burgeon is reinventing capitalism. Five percent of Burgeon’s sales are dedicated to these efforts. Burgeon makes an impact in its community in two formats: first, by volunteering and doing the work, and second, by supporting organizations that help increase access to the outdoors.

Burgeon maintains three trails in the White Mountains: the Old Bridle Path, Willey Range trail, and the Pine Link trail. This preservation work helps to insure that hikers will have access to these gorgeous places for years to come. Burgeon employees and brand ambassadors visit each of these trails three times a year to perform maintenance and check the condition of the trails. Repairing and cleaning water bars is not glamorous, but it is important work.  

Being active in local organizations helps Burgeon build community. New England Disabled Sports enables thousands of people to access the outdoors who might not otherwise be able. Burgeon not only donates money to “NEDS” and other similar organizations, but employees volunteer their time there as well. Each Burgeon employee is allocated two days a year to volunteer at the non-profit of their choice.

Since they are also close to the Appalachian Trail, it is only natural that they participate in some Trail Magic along the way. They do this by hosting breakfast at the Notch Hostel, providing s’mores at Hikers Welcome, providing wifi/free charging of devices and snacks at their studio, and offering gear repair. These seemingly simple acts help them extend the warm feeling of community even to those simply passing through. 

With only so much time in the day, their team often meets their limits with boots-on-the-ground volunteer work. That’s why they extended their reach to put money back into the community they love. Burgeon financially supports organizations such as the aforementioned NEDS, Granite Backcountry Alliance, Friends of Tuckerman Ravine, the Linwood Community Center, and several others.

 Burgeon is both a concept and a company. It is both a team working together to create a positive impact in the White Mountains of New Hampshire, as well as an aspiration — that companies can do well by doing good for their employees, their environment, and their community.

Note: This is part 1 of a 2-part series Burgeon ran in the Boston Globe in the Fall of 2022.

Born in the White Mountains of New Hampshire, Burgeon Outdoor is reinventing capitalism one piece of apparel at a time. Burgeon’s founder, Rudy Glocker, envisions a world filled with thriving mountain communities that positively impact their economy, environment, and community equally. Within Burgeon, he has found a way to make that dream a reality. 

 Burgeon Outdoor was founded in Lincoln, NH in 2019. Over the past three years, Burgeon has successfully fostered a sustainable business model that is profitable while still being mindful of the environment and giving back to their local communities. Since inception, they’ve expanded and now manufacture in two locations: their original Lincoln, NH studio and a recently opened production facility in Gorham, NH.

Burgeon is deeply rooted in sustainable production, growth, and employment. By making the majority of their products within their Lincoln and Gorham facilities, they keep the labor local. Local employees improve the chances that the money continues to circulate throughout their community. It also preserves quality jobs in the area, which is good for everyone that lives there.

Even though their focal point may be having a hyper-local business, they also have an online storefront. If you buy one of their products online, such as the award-winning Flume Baselayer –  Field & Stream’s 2021 pick for overall best hiking shirt, you are still importing resources into their community, further advancing their mission. 

A simple act like buying a luxuriously comfortable and practical Highlander Hoodie keeps their New Hampshire mountain community afloat by giving locals more than just a place to work. It gives all full-time employees sustainable wages, healthcare coverage, and monthly bonuses based on sales. Add in flexible working arrangements, paid vacation, sick days, and volunteer opportunities and you can understand how it gives them a career, not just another job. 

The majority of their team is made up of production professionals that make the clothing in both Lincoln and Gorham. This creates a unique shopping experience as customers and visitors can see exactly where and in what conditions the clothing is manufactured.

Burgeon sources the majority of their fabric and materials from domestic suppliers. This is not only an economic decision but an environmental one as well. Domestic mills follow stringent US environmental laws and standards, the transportation impact is lower, and Burgeon utilizes ‘deadstock’ whenever possible. Deadstock is still first quality fabric but is considered waste in the textile industry because another company canceled their order or the color wasn’t just right. These actions also have the added benefits of building critical manufacturing skills here in the United States and shortening their supply chain.

A shorter supply chain means they can be more reactive to changes or delays and respond more rapidly to consumer demand. Instead of having to halt sales and production due to supply chain issues, they can react to production quickly because they are buying, producing, and selling within a local market. It also eliminates a significant amount of plastic and packaging waste that you typically find from other apparel brands. 

With such a strong focus on purchasing as much as possible from local businesses and making products in-house, it only makes sense to give back in other ways. Burgeon donates 5% of its sales to its community and environmental efforts and adds another 5% to a bonus fund for their production team. 

For example, when you purchase a Highlander Hoodie for $84.95, $4.25 goes directly to Burgeon’s community and environmental efforts. This includes things such as trail maintenance, carbon-neutral efforts, and working with local non-profits to increase access to the outdoors. An additional $4.25 goes directly to the people who made your hoodie. All employees directly participate in the success of the company.

Burgeon is more than a clothing company. They are reinventing capitalism by focusing not only on their bottom line but on how their activities impact and strengthen their environment and community. The positive impact they are creating in the White Mountains of New Hampshire goes far beyond their financial statements; it is about helping to create a healthy flourishing economy, preserving their local environment, and creating a bond in the mountain communities of New Hampshire.

Click here for part 2 of “Reinventing capitalism, the Burgeon way.”

Lincoln, NH, the heart of the White Mountains. We are so honored to continue this wonderful tradition at Burgeon Outdoor.  While many things have changed at Burgeon over the past year, this tradition runs strong – despite new realities.  Each Thanksgiving we offer each of our employees the opportunity to take home a turkey for Thanksgiving dinner (and we threw in a pie this year for good measure!).

In the past, we were able to hand out the turkeys in one session.  With the growth of our team and the opening of our production facility in Gorham, we had to adapt this year.  Instead of one passing of the turkeys, we had three!  It made things a little more challenging, but it was great to pass them out three times!

As we look back on 2022, we are grateful for many things. 

• We were able to welcome Tina, Jamie, Karen, Christine, Ruth, Aaron, Delia, Tim, Adelaide, and Tyler to our growing team. Each of them has made an impact in many ways during the past months.  We are excited by their enthusiasm, talent, and love of our mission.
• Surviving another year in business. When we started this endeavor, most people thought we were crazy – and maybe they were right, but we close out 2022 in a much stronger position in all measures than we were a year ago.  Lots of great new products such as the Tuckerman Jacket, Hearthside Cowl Neck, Highlander Full Zip, and more are on their way in the coming weeks – stay tuned!
• Our amazing customers. As many of you know, a young woman went missing on the Franconia Ridge a short time ago.  We have had numerous customers who have stopped in the studio the past few days after volunteering to go look for her.  While these efforts have remained unsuccessful to this point, it is a powerful reminder of how special this community is – and how we all look out for each other.
• Speaking of looking out for each other, a shoutout to all the Search and Rescue teams (PEMI SAR, Lakes Region SAR, Androscoggin Valley SAR, Mountain Rescue Service, Mount Washington Volunteer Ski Patrol), First Responders, volunteers, and others who are there for our community when we need it the most.
• The numerous organizations that help to preserve and maintain our wonderful environment as well as those that help expand access to these special places. Thank you AMC, Friends of Tuckerman Ravine, Granite Backcountry Alliance, New England Disabled Sports, Mt. Washington Valley Adaptive Sports, and the various community organizations that create opportunities for so many.
• Our vendors and partners who have helped us, offered guidance, and helped us create great products.
• Our families, friends and supporters who have helped us more times than we can count in the past year. We have faced numerous challenges in the past year, but someone has always stepped in when it appeared we were lost and given us a lift when we needed it the most.  It really was darkest just before the dawn – and thank you to those who shined us some light when we needed it the most.

“At times our own light goes out and is rekindled by a spark from another person.  Each of us has cause to think with deep gratitude of those who have lighted the flame within us.” – Albert Schweitzer

On behalf of everyone at Burgeon,

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

The Pemi hoodie is the most sustainable hoodie we make - and just perhaps the most sustainable hoodie in the outdoor industry. In an effort to both expand our product selection and lower our carbon footprint we decided to create a version of our popular Highlander Hoodie, but made exclusively of “deadstock” material.

Deadstock materials are first-quality materials that were either overproduced in error, dyed the incorrect color, or became available because of a canceled order. In the case of this new hoodie, these deadstock materials are also made of recycled polyester, making this the most sustainable hoodie we have ever produced.

Approximately a year ago, we were made aware that another brand had canceled a large order of Polartec Microfleece. We jumped at the opportunity to purchase a first-quality fabric made of recycled materials. Polartec Microfleece has a similar appearance to the Cyberknit material we use for our Highlander Hoodies. Because of this similarity, we started producing Highlander Hoodies from this new fabric. The first run of hoodies in this material came in Navy and Wine color options and both received positive feedback from customers. We then decided to make an additional purchase of the deadstock fabric in some more color options.

We felt it was necessary to differentiate the Highlander and Pemi hoodies due to this fabric difference.  While comparable in terms of weight and warmth, we find our Pemi hoodies slightly thinner and sometimes better for layering. Highlander Hoodies, made of Cyberknit, are made of a higher loft fabric, making them warmer and thicker.

After polling Burgeon staff members and reviewing potential product names, we decided to name this the Pemi Hoodie. 'Pemi' is short for Pemigewasset. The Pemigewasset Wilderness Area is the closest one to us in Lincoln, New Hampshire. Also, the Pemigewasset River, a 65-mile river that begins in Franconia and merges with the Winnipesaukee River in Franklin, flows south behind our Lincoln Studio. We make clothing inspired by mountain communities, so we always want to honor the Lincoln community where we're based. 

If you've bought a Navy or Wine Highlander Hoodie in the past, then you've actually bought this "new" product, the Pemi. The Pemi is now also available in a Deep Bay color and will be available in even more looks in the future.

Shop the most sustainable hoodie we've ever made

Lincoln, New Hampshire, the heart of the White Mountains.  The original Osseo trail was in use up to the 1980’s.  It provided a direct trail from the town of Lincoln up to the summit of Mt. Flume.  This route is shorter (about 10 miles round trip) than the current Osseo trail which leaves from Lincoln Woods.  

Alex Roberts, Justin Walsh, and Philip Carcia checking out the route.

Though this trail is now technically a bushwack, on a recent hike (May 13th, 2022) we found the route fairly easy to follow and well marked.

We departed from the Clearbrook visitor parking area.  The first 0.25 miles of the trail was blazed in red.  While not officially maintained (at least not to our knowledge), the trail is easy to follow and well-marked.  It is also clear that someone or some organization is maintaining the trail as many of the blazes are clearly more recent than the 1980’s.  

At 0.25 you cross a stream (fairly mild crossing) and then come to a path blazed in yellow.  The trail is moderate to this point and stays that way until you cross back over Clearbrook.

Despite it being easy to follow, the trail has many of the hallmarks of your typical White Mountains trail - fairly steep in sections, very few switchbacks, and some rock hopping at times.  One of the nice distinctions of the trail is that it’s relatively dormant state has many more sections of soil (as opposed to rock) for long sections of the hike, which is especially nice on the descent.

One of the first great views of the hike is from Whaleback (3640’).  You will see the Loon Ski area as well as the valley.  There is also a great viewpoint just prior to this point that offers a stunning view of the Pemigewasset Wilderness – definitely worth the 50ft side trail.

From Whaleback the ‘trail’ is pretty flat.  We encountered 1-2’ of snow, so hard to tell the ground condition (though the parts we did encounter were in great shape).  From speaking to others who have hiked this part, it sounds like it can get pretty rough once all the brush comes in for the spring/summer.

This part of the trail was a bit of a slog.  The snow was the consistency where you could walk on top for a few steps, then crash through on the next one.  One would also think this would be a pretty wet/buggy area once the snow melts.

Soon, however, you rendezvous with the current Osseo Trail.  From there it is a quick jaunt to the summit of Flume.  Prior to heading up the trail, however, it is wise to make sure you mentally note where you ‘came out of the woods’.  You want to make sure you can find your way back to avoid a long road walk back to your car!

On the summit of Flume, you will find great views (weather permitting) and we hope you enjoy it as much as we did!  After soaking in all you desire, reverse your tracks for the trip back.  It is about 10 miles and 3000 feet of elevation gain/loss - not to mention a bit of an adventure.

A HUGE THANK YOU to Alex Roberts, Philip Carcia, and Justin Walsh for an awesome day!

Enjoy!

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The Presidential Traverse

The Pemi Loop

First Five 4000 Footers

Top 4000-Footer Views

Burgeon Outdoor was founded in 2019.  Burgeon’s mission is to help mountain communities flourish.  Burgeon proudly manufactures premium outdoor apparel in Lincoln, NH.  By manufacturing locally, Burgeon creates year-round jobs in the White Mountains.  5% of Burgeon’s sales support its community and environmental efforts. To learn more, please visit our studio at the Village Shops in Lincoln, our website burgeonoutdoor.com or call us at 603-745-7123.

Burgeon Outdoor acquires select assets, preserves skilled manufacturing jobs in New Hampshire 

Product Line Expansion

LINCOLN, New Hampshire, September 27, 2022 – Burgeon Outdoor has acquired select assets of a legendary New Hampshire mountaineering brand.  As a result of this acquisition, Burgeon will add New England cold weather essentials to its product line. These will include Burgeon’s first ever hardshell jacket and pants - capable of handling the worst conditions the White Mountains have to offer.

These new products have recently entered production and will be ready for purchase by the winter holiday season. Burgeon is eager to expand its presence in the skiing and winter hiking scenes and this acquisition marks an important step in doing so. Burgeon Outdoor’s first hardshell, the Tuckerman Hardshell Jacket, will be available in late November, early December 2022.

Keeping Jobs in New Hampshire 

Burgeon Outdoor was attracted to to this acquisition due to their legacy of making durable lightweight mountaineering gear in New Hampshire as well as the talented people who made the gear in their Gorham, NH facility. 

With this acquisition, Burgeon will be growing its production team. While remaining headquartered in Lincoln, NH, Burgeon has recently added to its production team in Gorham, NH. The Burgeon name will now be seen in both Lincoln and Gorham.

“Burgeon’s mission is to create a better tomorrow for mountain communities, such as Lincoln, NH where we are based.  Since our inception we have accomplished our mission by creating jobs in Lincoln, NH, adopting hiking trails, and donating to numerous local causes, such as Linwood Recreation and New England Disabled Sports. We are both honored and excited by this opportunity to expand our impact into Gorham and preserve skilled manufacturing jobs in that community.” – Burgeon Founder Rudy Glocker

Fill out this form to stay updated on new winter products like the Tuckerman Hardshell

About Burgeon Outdoor

Established 2019, Lincoln, New Hampshire.

Proudly manufacturing outdoor apparel locally, Burgeon believes in creating a healthy connection between outdoor enthusiasts, our economy and the mountains.  Burgeon’s mission is to create a better tomorrow for mountain communities.  Burgeon means 'to flourish'.

Burgeon donates 5% of all sales to its environmental and community efforts. We maintain 3 sections of hiking trails in the White Mountains.  Burgeon as a company and its employees are active in numerous community efforts throughout the White Mountains.

For more information, visit www.burgeonoutdoor.com or call (603)-745-7123

For press inquiries, contact Tyler Murphy at tyler@burgeonoutdoor.com or (617)-645-1510

Shop Burgeon Products

Burgeon Outdoor was founded in 2019.  Burgeon’s mission is to help mountain communities flourish.  Burgeon proudly manufactures premium outdoor apparel in Lincoln, NH.  By manufacturing locally, Burgeon creates year round jobs in the White Mountains.  5% of Burgeon’s sales support its community and environmental efforts. To learn more, please visit our studio at the Village Shops in Lincoln, our website burgeonoutdoor.com or call us at 603-745-7123.

Unless you’re wired differently, hiking in the rain is never fun. You’re constantly battling to stay dry, the views marginal or nowhere to be found, and in some cases the trail may become slippery or even dangerous.

Yet if you’re looking to complete the 48 4,000-footers in New Hampshire, chances are at some point you’re going to find yourself out in the rain. The good news is if you plan ahead there are some hikes that lend themselves better to rainy days than others, so you can brave the elements and work towards your 48 without wasting a beautiful view.

So if you’re looking for a peak to hike the next time the forecast doesn’t look great, here are a few places to start.

Mt. Hale
Elevation: 4,054 feet
Recommended Route: Hale Brook Trail

This is by far the most popular rainy day hike in the White Mountains and it’s not hard to see why. Mt. Hale’s summit is completely wooded and there are virtually no views along the trail, so rain or shine your experience is largely going to be the same.

Mt. Hale is also one of the quickest hikes of the 4,000-footers, with a round-trip to the summit and back via the Hale Brook Trail clocking in at only 4.1 miles. The trail is somewhat steep, gaining around 2,250 feet over roughly two miles to the summit, but the footing is good throughout to it’s generally considered one of the easier hikes on the 4,000-footers list.

Mt. Tecumseh
Elevation: 4,003 feet
Recommended Route: Mt. Tecumseh Trail (via Waterville Valley Ski Resort)

Mt. Tecumseh is similar to Mt. Hale in that it is a straightforward, quick and relentless climb to the top, but Tecumseh also has a couple of viewpoints that make it worthwhile on a nice day. 

Why not save this for when it’s sunny then? One of those viewpoints is from the side of a ski trail, which offers a unique and almost spooky perspective of the surrounding valley if you get it with just the right cloud cover. Plus, the summit view out into Waterville Valley is nice, but you can find better views of the same area from Osceola.

In terms of the trail itself, you’ll climb about 2,180 feet from the trailhead to Tecumseh’s summit. Hikers should know this climb is tougher than its reputation, especially the second half past the ski trail view point, but the 4.8-mile round trip goes quickly, especially on the descent.

Tom-Field-Willey
Elevation: 4,051 (Tom), 4,340 (Field), 4,285 (Willey)
Recommended Route: Avalon Trail, A-Z Trail, Mt. Tom Spur, Willey Range Trail, Avalon Trail

If you’re in the mood to check a bunch of peaks off your list, the Tom-Field-Willey traverse is probably your best bet. The Willey Range does not boast great views and while there are a handful of nice viewpoints, particularly below Mt. Willey’s summit, you’ll spend most of your hike in the trees.

This is a much longer hike than Hale or Tecumseh, but is pretty standard compared to the rest of the 4,000-footers. The route outlined above is 9.2 miles with roughly 3,450 feet of elevation gain, the majority coming on the initial ascent of Mt. Tom. The route also allows for a natural bailout point at Mt. Field, so if you’re not up for the out and back to Mt. Willey you can just descend the Avalon Trail and come back for Willey another day.

Middle-South Carter
Elevation: 4,430 (South Carter), 4,610 (Middle Carter)
Recommended Route: Nineteen Mile Brook Trail, Carter Dome Trail, Carter-Moriah Trail, North Carter Trail, Imp Trail, Camp Dodge Cutoff and Route 16 road walk.

Unless you’re completing a full traverse of the Carter-Moriah Range, Middle and South Carter can be a bit of a chore, so getting these together on a rainy day is often a good call. The two peaks don’t have much in the way of views, but they do offer the chance to bag two 4,000-footers in one go, and two of the top 20 in elevation as well.
There are a couple of ways to go about reaching South and Middle Carter, but most of the routes average around 10-12 miles with 3,300 feet of elevation gain. If you’re feeling adventurous, the loop described above involves taking the Camp Dodge Cutoff off the Imp Trail, allowing for a short road walk on Route 16 back to the Nineteen Mile Brook trailhead. If you’d rather keep to established trails, you can always just retrace your steps from Middle Carter back the way you came.

Hancock-South Hancock
Elevation: 4,420 (Hancock), 4,319 (South Hancock)
Recommended Route: Hancock Notch Trail, Cedar Brook Trail, Hancock Loop Trail and back

This hike has a little bit of everything for a rainy-day peakbagger. You can get both Hancock summits in one quick loop and the majority of the route is flat and under tree cover, offering protection from the elements.
Overall the hike is 9.1 miles with around 2,690 feet of elevation, almost all of which comes on the last climb up to Hancock’s summit. No matter which direction you take from the point where the loop splits, the trail is quite steep, and if you go up the main summit first you’ll actually drop a bit before the real climb begins. That is, unfortunately, the price of having an easy first three miles of trail, but once you’re up to Hancock’s ridgeline the rest is fairly straightforward. 

Helpful links for planning your hike:

Weather

Trail Conditions

Other Hiking Related Blog Posts:

Five First 4000 Footers

Top 5 4000 Footer Views

First Five Winter Hikes

Five Surprising Winter Views

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Shop 4000 Footer T

Burgeon Outdoor was founded in 2019.  Burgeon’s mission is to help mountain communities flourish.  Burgeon proudly manufactures premium outdoor apparel in Lincoln, NH.  By manufacturing locally, Burgeon creates year round jobs in the White Mountains.  5% of Burgeon’s sales support its community and environmental efforts. To learn more, please visit our studio at the Village Shops in Lincoln, our website burgeonoutdoor.com or call us at 603-745-7123.

MY JOURNEY

In 2008, I suddenly felt like I had the flu. I was so exhausted that it felt like I was trying to run in a pool with a wet wool blanket on me. I had these strange rashes, and soon after, started getting weird neurological symptoms, like suddenly I couldn't feel my feet from the ankle down. Or another time, I was walking into work, and I couldn't feel my clothes. It's not that I was cognizant of my clothes before, but when you suddenly can't feel them, you know! I panicked as I thought I was standing in my employer's parking lot, naked. Luckily, when I looked down, I of course, was fully dressed.
More and more symptoms started happening. More and more frustrating doctor's visits occurred. Finally, after 3 years of seeing local doctors, I went to a doctor at a tertiary hospital in Los Angeles and was diagnosed.
I have Behcet's Disease. Behcet's Disease is a rare inflammatory autoimmune disorder. The disease can lead to numerous signs and symptoms within body’s systems.
After my diagnosis, I was relieved. Although there is no cure, I started receiving treatment to help me deal with my symptoms. This was a new beginning of a long road of disappointing treatments and harsh side effects. Years later, I'm now on a good treatment regime that is largely effective with virtually no side effects.

WHY I BACKPACK FOR BEHCET'S DISEASE
More research desperately needs done on the disease itself and on better treatment options, which is why I backpack (and hike) for Behcet's Disease Awareness.
When I was first diagnosed with Behcet's Disease, I was too sick to even think about backpacking or hiking, dealing with extreme exhaustion and pain. Now I backpack in the Sierra Nevada mountains (California) several times a year. I've also hiked/backpacked in the Mojave Desert, Death Valley National Park, Czech Republic, Romania, Switzerland, Hong Kong, Turkey, and Austria. I hope by continuing to hike and talking to everyone along the way, I keep raising awareness for this rare disease and inspire others who have been diagnosed to find something they love too.

HOW BURGEON OUTDOOR GEAR HELPS ME
Since my body temperature fluctuates due to having autonomic system dysfunctions from my disease and because of the activity itself, I need moisture-wicking, thermo-regulating clothes. Burgeon Outdoor base layers do just that. And their clothing is extremely comfortable and attractive looking – a bonus!

About Cindy Todd
Cindy was invited to pharmaceutical companies to talk about treatments and her personal experience with Behcet’s Disease. She has also written articles for Europe’s Rare Disease Organization & the American Vasculitis Foundation. She has also written a book about her plight & her cause.

Since 1992, the Top Notch Triathlon has taken place annually in Franconia, NH. An event organized by the community and for the community, the triathlon’s proceeds go towards bettering the recreation opportunities of the Franconia area. Since its inception, the race has helped raise over $125,000 which has helped finance projects such as the construction of the Dow Park pavilion, the repaving of the skating rink, and purchasing new soccer equipment.

In the midst of a long stretch of hot summer days, this Saturday in Franconia was no different. The 8AM kick-off temperature of 68 degrees quickly reached the mid-80s. 

Racers began at Lafayette Regional High School and kicked things off with a 6 mile bike leg through Franconia, up Butter Hill, and into the White Mountain National Forest until they reached beautiful Echo Lake. A ⅓ mile swim across the scenic Echo Lake brought racers to the race’s final leg, the run. Many will tell you that the run is the most difficult part of a triathlon. The fatigue brought on by biking and swimming combined with the now blistering summer heat, was no match for the racers though, as many crushed the 3.1 mile run across the slopes of Cannon Mountain. This year’s triathletes proved they were some top-notch competitors!

Afterwards, racers regathered at Iron Furnace Brewing to cool down with some delicious craft beers and ciders. When in the area, be sure to check out this spot! 

One racer noted that the heat, "was tough throughout the race but it was nice to cool off in Echo Lake."

We released our 2 newest graphic t-shirt designs at the Iron Furnace afterparty. Both pay tribute to the amazing Franconia area. Our new Profile T-shirt design features New Hampshire’s famous “Man on the Mountain” as well as the locally-loved “Watcher” of Eagle Cliff. The brand-new Franconia Notch T-shirt features various notable landmarks in the Notch such as Profile Lake and Cannon Mountain! 

Congratulations to the winners! To check out the results click here.

We’re proud to be sponsors of this great event and had an awesome time!

Lincoln, NH - the heart of the White Mountains:  Three Years ago today, I signed a lease at the Village Shops, hired our first employee (Justin Walsh), and Burgeon Outdoor became a reality - -at least in name.

We had our first team meeting on the shores of Lonesome Lake (featured above) and started to outline our task lists.  With the benefit of hindsight, it is amazing we are here today to celebrate the start of Year 4.

Burgeon studio June 2019

We had no production staff, a space that needed a fair amount of work, and a business plan, that in hindsight, was woefully inadequate.  We did, however, have a firm belief that outdoor apparel should be made in the places that inspire its use – not just because it is a great phrase that rolls off the tongue, but because we knew it would create a positive impact in the White Mountains community.

We believed then and still hold firm that making our apparel in Lincoln, NH makes a positive impact in the White Mountains; economically, environmentally, and socially.  We have seen this impact grow over the past three years and Year Four is going to be our largest impact year yet!

Burgeon studio, same vantage point June, 2022

Economically, we have created six full time jobs (not including yours truly) - five in production and one in retail/management, as well as three part time jobs. 

Environmentally, we maintain the Old Bridle Path (more to come, stay tuned!).  We continue to expand the use of natural fibers (such as wool, tencel, and lyocell) and expand our use of recycled polyester.  We also offer repairs – which allows you to extend the life of the most sustainable gear in the world - -the gear you already have.

We continue to bring our community together.  We have hosted events and/or fundraisers for New England Disabled Sports, Friends of Linwood Recreation, Loon Mountain Ministry, NH Builders Association, Loon Freestyle Team and others. 

We sponsored the Tuckerman Inferno, the premiere racing event in the White Mountains region.  Burgeon staff have served in leadership roles in the Western White Mountains Chamber of Commerce and the Granite Outdoor Alliance.

What is on tap for Year 4?

• Expanding our trail maintenance - stay tuned for news coming soon!
• Adding to our staff - both in management and production
• Increasing the use of natural materials and recycled products
• A larger presence at community event
• Women’s leggings
• Women’s Hiking Tank Top
• And yes, fingers crossed, some waterproof layers!

Year 4 Starts NOW and we aim for it to be our best year yet!  We hope you’ll come see us soon.  There is always something new happening at the Burgeon studio and we are committed to getting better every day - so no matter when you visit, you’ll see us at our best!

We having a Midsommer Hiking Kick-Off Party on Saturday, June 18th and hope you will join us for food, fun, beverages, prizes, contests, gear specials and more!  Register here.

Shop Burgeon Products

Burgeon Outdoor was founded in 2019.  Burgeon’s mission is to help mountain communities flourish.  Burgeon proudly manufactures premium outdoor apparel in Lincoln, NH.  By manufacturing locally, Burgeon creates year round jobs in the White Mountains.  5% of Burgeon’s sales support its community and environmental efforts. To learn more, please visit our studio at the Village Shops in Lincoln, our website burgeonoutdoor.com or call us at 603-745-7123.

Lincoln, NH, the heart of the White Mountains.

Despite the foreboding date, Friday the 13th was a gorgeous day in the White Mountains of New Hampshire - and it was great to get back on the trail.  A huge thank you to Alex Roberts, Philip Carcia, and Justin Walsh for making the time to get out there.

It was the kind of day that reminds you why you love it so much.  In just a few hours, we enjoyed ‘discovering’ an old/abandoned trail (Osseo - trip write up to follow), enjoyed bright sunshine, warm temperatures, hiked through 1-2’ of snow, got some great product shots, bagged a 4000 footer, and took in some great new views (could see Mansfield in the distance, at least we think we did!).  It was glorious.

The best part of the day, however, was just lounging around the summit with three friends for over an hour.  What did we talk about - everything and nothing at all simultaneously – and that is what made it so special.  In our ‘always on demand’ world, it was great to just enjoy each other’s company and not worry about the ‘real’ world down in the valleys.

We hope you are ‘back in the saddle again’ soon – whether it is hiking, walking, biking, running, kayaking or whatever it is you love to do.  We also hope you can carve out some time with friends and just enjoy the moment, be present and soak it all in.  Good luck and get out there!

Shop Burgeon Products

Burgeon Outdoor was founded in 2019.  Burgeon’s mission is to help mountain communities flourish.  Burgeon proudly manufactures premium outdoor apparel in Lincoln, NH.  By manufacturing locally, Burgeon creates year round jobs in the White Mountains.  5% of Burgeon’s sales support its community and environmental efforts. To learn more, please visit our studio at the Village Shops in Lincoln, our website burgeonoutdoor.com or call us at 603-745-7123.