The Fall 2009 Media Lab Staff's first Outdoor Enthusiast trip was to Mount Monadnock in Jaffrey, New Hampshire. We met up with Park Manager, Patrick Hummel, who led us up the White Dot Trail to the summit. According to Patrick, the White Dot Trail is the most direct route to the summit and is the most climbed trail in the park. It has an 1800 ft. elevation and is two miles long. On our trip, Patrick explained the sights, sounds, and smells of the trail as well as his duties, park regulations, and park projects. In December of 2008, an ice storm devastated the park. Patrick was in charge of cleaning up the trails in time for visitors. Patrick took us to a portion of Cascade Trail, his favorite trail, where white birches used to line a small, secluded trail. The trail was littered on all sides by fallen trees. Patrick said he was saddened that the area was not how he remembered. After two or three hours hiking, we were at the foot of the summit where we made a stop so that Patrick could assist a high school student who had twisted her ankle. After Patrick returned, we continued on to the summit. Despite the wind and the haze, the views of the fall foliage were breath taking. Patrick pointed out the surrounding ridges and other landmarks in the area. All together, the trip was rigorous yet rewarding. Mount Monadnock is definitely worth visiting for its challenging terrain and beautiful visitas. -Julia Kwon