By:
Submission
The views from Madison Spring Hut and its closest peaks will knock your socks off. The hut sits above the treeline at the northern end of the Presidential Range and overlooks the sheer walls of Madison Gulf. Hike a moderate 3.8 miles to spectacular views of the Presidential, Kilkenny, and Pilot Ranges. For a closer-in feel, jog over to nearby Star Lake and marvel at the fragile alpine flora unique to this little corner of the world.
I was recalling my stay in this hut to my wife the other day and thought I'd leave a review here as well.
Back in 1996 I hiked the presidents with my godfather, who passed away a couple years ago. This hut was our first night and was an experience that I've never forgotten and think about frequently.
We had previously hiked a section of the John Muir Trail, and I was accustomed to the switchbacks typical of trails in the west, on the AMT they usually cut knee high steps and its that for miles and miles. We hiked something like 7 to 9 miles of steps that day and, though I was young, it was brutal and I felt like quitting every step of the way.
The hut was a welcome relief and was more or less like a youth hostel in the mountains.
In the morning one of the staff walked the halls playing softly on his guitar to wake people up for breakfast. I don't think I've ever had a better wake up than that. Ever. All other mornings have paled in comparison.
All things together it was a perfect experience.
Surprisingly modern and had some food that was reasonably priced. Great place to regroup after a long hike before going back to camp. We did a day trip from the Osgood campsite to Mount Madison, this Hut, and then back to camp.
Phenomenal facilities, prices that defy inflation, amazing young staff. Just a fantastic place to rest on your way to or from one of the surrounding summits!
Can't say enough about the staff and the service at this amazing AMC Hut. Really a once in a lifetime experience! The staff is A1 and to think that they have to CARRY the food up a 4 mile super steep trail makes it taste that much better!! Madison Spring Hut is the best!!
Great stay in paradise. 1 comment tho. We checked in and the woman who was at the front desk said she wasn’t usually manning the desk. She continued to explain that she was the head cook while with both arms overhead she scratched her hairy armpits.. no judgement here but she was the head cook! Kinda comical actually
