So there are two Kearsarges in NH on the same list, and both have towers. This is the more southern one in Warner NH.
History:
Peak Elevation: 2936 ft
Elevation Gain: 1125 ft
Trail: Winslow Trail, Barlow Trail
Length: 2.7mi
This is in Winslow State park, a nice little loop to get some easy, nice views. There is a parking fee but parking was plenty as I got on trail very early. No real trail notes but the views on the way down were great.
Photos:
https://imgur.com/gallery/1WDdFL3
Showing posts with label 52wav. Show all posts
Showing posts with label 52wav. Show all posts
Friday, July 19, 2019
Friday, July 5, 2019
05Jul19 - Potash, Hedgehog Mountains
Two separate mountains on one hiking trip.
History:
Peak Elevation: 2680ft (Potash), 2532ft (Hedgehog)
Trail: Mt Potash Tr., UNH Trail
Length: 9.0mi (4.2mi for Potash, 4.8 for Hedgehog)
Bagged a two-fer here. Forget what order i did these in as this is a backdated entry, but i recall this being a nice day to be out with my buddy Matthew Michael Hotdog. Not his real name. The grading was fairly nice all day, and these combined makes some good training for some NH48 action. The trails seemed to be in great shape and well maintained for the most part.
Photos:
https://imgur.com/gallery/fqPEsp8
History:
Peak Elevation: 2680ft (Potash), 2532ft (Hedgehog)
Trail: Mt Potash Tr., UNH Trail
Length: 9.0mi (4.2mi for Potash, 4.8 for Hedgehog)
Bagged a two-fer here. Forget what order i did these in as this is a backdated entry, but i recall this being a nice day to be out with my buddy Matthew Michael Hotdog. Not his real name. The grading was fairly nice all day, and these combined makes some good training for some NH48 action. The trails seemed to be in great shape and well maintained for the most part.
Photos:
https://imgur.com/gallery/fqPEsp8
Monday, October 22, 2018
22OCT18 - Doublehead Mountain (North and South peaks)
Well i've got a bit of a backlog of hiking to blog about... not that anyone is really reading this.
A crisp fall morning with Buenos Tardes to get Doublehead Mountain's two peaks for some 52WAV action before wrapping up for the year.
History: Used to be a ski hill of some kind. Cabin at the top.
Peak Elevation: 3053 ft (North Peak), 2939 ft (South peak)
Elevation Gain: ~1500 ft
Trail: Doublehead Ski Trail, Old Path, New Path, some bushwacking
Length: 3.3mi
Parking was roadside at this point but i think there is a lot that was being built at that time. We got a fairly early start, not sure on timing of any of this hike to be honest, and we crushed a fairly easy hike on the crisp fall morning. The old ski trail was a nice way to go all the way to the North peak, where the cabin was, and then we went to the South peak and had some lunch on the little ledge there. I'd like to say i recall more than this about this hike but I mostly remember ending up losign trail on the way down and having to bushwack our way to the road towards the end, where we were only a few hundred yards off. Afterwards we got some really great apple cider donuts from a nearby place that Mr Tardes knew about.
Photos:
https://imgur.com/gallery/ise6X6Q
A crisp fall morning with Buenos Tardes to get Doublehead Mountain's two peaks for some 52WAV action before wrapping up for the year.
History: Used to be a ski hill of some kind. Cabin at the top.
Peak Elevation: 3053 ft (North Peak), 2939 ft (South peak)
Elevation Gain: ~1500 ft
Trail: Doublehead Ski Trail, Old Path, New Path, some bushwacking
Length: 3.3mi
Parking was roadside at this point but i think there is a lot that was being built at that time. We got a fairly early start, not sure on timing of any of this hike to be honest, and we crushed a fairly easy hike on the crisp fall morning. The old ski trail was a nice way to go all the way to the North peak, where the cabin was, and then we went to the South peak and had some lunch on the little ledge there. I'd like to say i recall more than this about this hike but I mostly remember ending up losign trail on the way down and having to bushwack our way to the road towards the end, where we were only a few hundred yards off. Afterwards we got some really great apple cider donuts from a nearby place that Mr Tardes knew about.
Photos:
https://imgur.com/gallery/ise6X6Q
Sunday, April 15, 2018
2018 goals and plans
So over the past few months i have been backdating entries as my time allows - i usually do it in marathon sessions which involves some research that i do not have up front, which occupies about half the time spent. Given that this blog was started in 2017, as my season was crawling to its close, I didn't do anything like this before. So bear with me if it seems scatterbrained. My goals for hiking this year are as follows: 15 peaks from 52 WAV list, 12 peaks from NH48, and 3 or 4 from the NE67 that reside outside of NH. Here's an early projection of what my approximate plan is:
52 WAV hikes:
- Mt Crawford, Mt Resolution, Stairs Mountain 11.2 mi
- Magalloway Mountain
- Mt Hayes
- Sugarloaf Mountain (Nash Stream Forest) 4.2 mi
- Mt Shelburne Moriah
- Mt Success
- Three Sisters
- Shaw
- North and South Baldface
- Eastman
- North Doublehead
- Smarts
- West Royce
NH48 Hikes:
- West Bond, Mt Bond, Bondcliff, Zealand 19ish mi
- North and South Twin 11ish mi.
- Wildcat D, Wildcat A
- Madison and Adams 10.1 mi
- North and South Kinsman
Non-NH28 peaks from NE67:
- Katahdin (ME14) looking to do this around Septemberish
- Killington (VT5)
- Mt. Abraham (VT5)
- Mt. Ellen (VT5)
To date, i have 30/48, 30/67 and 20/52.
I hope to continue hiking with BTLG, Bishop X and some old and new work friends this year, but will never back down from doing any of these as a solo venture.
I'll probably make some edits to this with mileages and intended trails for my own tracking purposes.
52 WAV hikes:
- Mt Crawford, Mt Resolution, Stairs Mountain 11.2 mi
- Magalloway Mountain
- Mt Hayes
- Sugarloaf Mountain (Nash Stream Forest) 4.2 mi
- Mt Shelburne Moriah
- Mt Success
- Three Sisters
- Shaw
- North and South Baldface
- Eastman
- North Doublehead
- Smarts
- West Royce
NH48 Hikes:
- West Bond, Mt Bond, Bondcliff, Zealand 19ish mi
- North and South Twin 11ish mi.
- Wildcat D, Wildcat A
- Madison and Adams 10.1 mi
- North and South Kinsman
Non-NH28 peaks from NE67:
- Katahdin (ME14) looking to do this around Septemberish
- Killington (VT5)
- Mt. Abraham (VT5)
- Mt. Ellen (VT5)
To date, i have 30/48, 30/67 and 20/52.
I hope to continue hiking with BTLG, Bishop X and some old and new work friends this year, but will never back down from doing any of these as a solo venture.
I'll probably make some edits to this with mileages and intended trails for my own tracking purposes.
Wednesday, November 8, 2017
08 November 2017: Mount Roberts
This might be the last time I venture out this year. The cold weather is here and I have a winter activity that demands much of my time. I debated making a stab at nabbing a 4000 footer but opted instead for something a little bit more low mileage and elevation
History: Mt Roberts Is the westernmost peak on the Castle in the Clouds conservation trust property, which in part includes peaks on the Ossipee Range. The trust was established in 1979 to preserve the mountains and property which has a gorgeous views of the lakes and mountains in the area. Mount Roberts was named after a family which settled in the area.
Peak Elevation: 2582 ft
Elevation Gain: ~1300 ft.
Trail: Mt. Roberts Trail, roadway
Length: 5.0 mi.
Time on Trail: 1030
Time off Trail: 1315
I prked at the signage with the map and trail descriptions, which added a bit of length to the hike before I realized I could have parked at the carriage house and saved some mileage. No complaints about that though. The trail map describes this tral as “strenuous”, which would translate to Moderate anywhere else in the whites. The trail grade starts off easy, has one steeper section then it levels off to mostly moderate grades thereafter.
Along the way are a number of viewpoints and vistas, some of which seem to be “maintained” which is a change of pace for me since I am used to seeing more wilderness and blowdown viewpoints. The mountain’s vista s afford you to think that you’re almost there, but the trail follows the mountain’s many shoulders as it slopes downwards. With 1300 or so feet of gain over the 2.3 or so miles, this was a pleasant half-day hike. Once I reached the sign for the summit of Roberts I looked around and saw some higher ground, which I had to trudge through some vegetation to get to. I wish I had the time to have made the trek over to Mt. Shaw and Black Snout to do a bit of Peakbagging. I’ll definitely be back because the views of the lakes are stunning and worth revisiting.
Photos:
History: Mt Roberts Is the westernmost peak on the Castle in the Clouds conservation trust property, which in part includes peaks on the Ossipee Range. The trust was established in 1979 to preserve the mountains and property which has a gorgeous views of the lakes and mountains in the area. Mount Roberts was named after a family which settled in the area.
Peak Elevation: 2582 ft
Elevation Gain: ~1300 ft.
Trail: Mt. Roberts Trail, roadway
Length: 5.0 mi.
Time on Trail: 1030
Time off Trail: 1315
I prked at the signage with the map and trail descriptions, which added a bit of length to the hike before I realized I could have parked at the carriage house and saved some mileage. No complaints about that though. The trail map describes this tral as “strenuous”, which would translate to Moderate anywhere else in the whites. The trail grade starts off easy, has one steeper section then it levels off to mostly moderate grades thereafter.
Along the way are a number of viewpoints and vistas, some of which seem to be “maintained” which is a change of pace for me since I am used to seeing more wilderness and blowdown viewpoints. The mountain’s vista s afford you to think that you’re almost there, but the trail follows the mountain’s many shoulders as it slopes downwards. With 1300 or so feet of gain over the 2.3 or so miles, this was a pleasant half-day hike. Once I reached the sign for the summit of Roberts I looked around and saw some higher ground, which I had to trudge through some vegetation to get to. I wish I had the time to have made the trek over to Mt. Shaw and Black Snout to do a bit of Peakbagging. I’ll definitely be back because the views of the lakes are stunning and worth revisiting.
Photos:
Mount Roberts (NH) 08Nov17Tuesday, October 24, 2017
22 October 2017: Mount Cube
This past sunday, I intended to go do an aggressive in length hike for 3 52WAV peaks, but woke up a bit late. So I opted for a shorter in length hike to grab one 52WAV peak, in Mt Cube.
History: Some sources indicate that this peak was originally named Mt. Cuba, after a hunting dog that was killed by a bear near the summit. “Mt. Cube” was said to be a local corruption of this name. A different story going around says that “Cuba” was applied by a West Indian sailor who settled locally, presumably after the Caribbean island.
Peak Elevation: 2909 ft
Elevation Gain: ~2200 ft.
Trail:Mt Cube Trail (AT)
Length:6.6 miles
Time on Trail : 10:15
Time off Trail: 14:00
Getting to the trail is pretty easy - NH-25A in Orford NH. Set your GPS to go to Upper Bakler Pond Rd, Orford NH and the trailhead has signage viewable from the road. Parking is roadside - remember to park as well onto the shoulder as you can. You'll see a sign for Camp Moosilauke, and the trail you want is right across the road. the AT crosses the highway, resuming about 100 yards to the east.
The trail ascends gradually, making an indirect appraoch to the peak of Mt Cube. Only one true water crossing on this day, though in spring and after rain, I can ssee a few drainage paths seeming like more. There was some gnarly erosion at one drainage section that will require a bit of rerouting, which it looks as if someone has started the process as seen by the surveyors tape. The early switchbacks were kind of annoying and I can definitely agree that there is an opportunity to take a bushwack to the top here. I'd do so at risk only knowing the boggy land to the east of the mountain might mean a bad day for someone who doesn't scout this out beforehand.
The top offers great views into the Connecticut River Valley into Vermont. I did not take time to speculate which peaks were what, though i suspect I could see Camel's hump and Mt. Abraham and Mt Ellen. Mt Moosilauke is able to be seen from the peak as well.
Photos:
I opted not to go to the north side peak of Mt. Cube, as I wanted to make it home in time to watch the 4pm football games. for the same reason i opted to not take the additional 1.5 miles to the Hexacuba shelter, which its 5-sided privy.
I'll be backdating some entries hereon out as a try to recount the important stuff I did on my 4000 footers and 52WAV quest.
Useful sources used for this post:
- https://docs.google.com/document/d/1xMQt0PwFw8vuVwMLzVFTwI0k1TwX66AM4Ht6aeQaMiM/edit
- http://outdoors.dartmouth.edu/activities/hiking/hikes/cube.html
History: Some sources indicate that this peak was originally named Mt. Cuba, after a hunting dog that was killed by a bear near the summit. “Mt. Cube” was said to be a local corruption of this name. A different story going around says that “Cuba” was applied by a West Indian sailor who settled locally, presumably after the Caribbean island.
Peak Elevation: 2909 ft
Elevation Gain: ~2200 ft.
Trail:Mt Cube Trail (AT)
Length:6.6 miles
Time on Trail : 10:15
Time off Trail: 14:00
Getting to the trail is pretty easy - NH-25A in Orford NH. Set your GPS to go to Upper Bakler Pond Rd, Orford NH and the trailhead has signage viewable from the road. Parking is roadside - remember to park as well onto the shoulder as you can. You'll see a sign for Camp Moosilauke, and the trail you want is right across the road. the AT crosses the highway, resuming about 100 yards to the east.
The trail ascends gradually, making an indirect appraoch to the peak of Mt Cube. Only one true water crossing on this day, though in spring and after rain, I can ssee a few drainage paths seeming like more. There was some gnarly erosion at one drainage section that will require a bit of rerouting, which it looks as if someone has started the process as seen by the surveyors tape. The early switchbacks were kind of annoying and I can definitely agree that there is an opportunity to take a bushwack to the top here. I'd do so at risk only knowing the boggy land to the east of the mountain might mean a bad day for someone who doesn't scout this out beforehand.
The top offers great views into the Connecticut River Valley into Vermont. I did not take time to speculate which peaks were what, though i suspect I could see Camel's hump and Mt. Abraham and Mt Ellen. Mt Moosilauke is able to be seen from the peak as well.
Photos:
Mt Cube NH 22Oct17I opted not to go to the north side peak of Mt. Cube, as I wanted to make it home in time to watch the 4pm football games. for the same reason i opted to not take the additional 1.5 miles to the Hexacuba shelter, which its 5-sided privy.
I'll be backdating some entries hereon out as a try to recount the important stuff I did on my 4000 footers and 52WAV quest.
Useful sources used for this post:
- https://docs.google.com/document/d/1xMQt0PwFw8vuVwMLzVFTwI0k1TwX66AM4Ht6aeQaMiM/edit
- http://outdoors.dartmouth.edu/activities/hiking/hikes/cube.html
Friday, October 20, 2017
20 October 2017: Mount Kearsarge North
Work has slowed down a bit so I opted for a farther north hike than normal while we had the prolonged nice weather during this fall season.
History: Located along the eastern edge of NH, Mt Kearsarge North is a real gem as far as views go. On a clear day you can see into the Presidential range and far into the interior of Maine. Originally named Mt. Pequawket, after a local Native tribe, it was renamed to Kearsarge North in 1957. The fire tower up there started out as an inn run by the AMC, which subsequently burned down a few times before being granted to the state for use as a fire tower.
Peak Elevation: 3268 ft
Elevation Gain: ~2600 ft
Trail: Mt Kearsarge North Trail
Length: 6.2 mi
Time on Trail: 1015
Time off Trail: 1400
The parking situation is pretty easy to see - there isn’t much here but the roadway has some decent shoulders you can pull off of. Just don't block people's driveways - some have it marked.
The trail is pretty gradual with pretty clearly marked headings. Some areas I needed to stop and look around as I crossed rock faces to determine next course but all in all, this well-traveled path requires no special guidance. I saw many dogs on this warmer-than-expected sunny day. clear views from the fire tower, which was seeing some pretty gnarly gusts when I was up there. I'm glad i carried an extra shirt in my pack, otherwise i would have been chilled for a while.
This is somehow not on the firetower quest list.
Photos:
This made it #17 for me on the 52 WAV list. I would gladly do it again.
History: Located along the eastern edge of NH, Mt Kearsarge North is a real gem as far as views go. On a clear day you can see into the Presidential range and far into the interior of Maine. Originally named Mt. Pequawket, after a local Native tribe, it was renamed to Kearsarge North in 1957. The fire tower up there started out as an inn run by the AMC, which subsequently burned down a few times before being granted to the state for use as a fire tower.
Peak Elevation: 3268 ft
Elevation Gain: ~2600 ft
Trail: Mt Kearsarge North Trail
Length: 6.2 mi
Time on Trail: 1015
Time off Trail: 1400
The parking situation is pretty easy to see - there isn’t much here but the roadway has some decent shoulders you can pull off of. Just don't block people's driveways - some have it marked.
The trail is pretty gradual with pretty clearly marked headings. Some areas I needed to stop and look around as I crossed rock faces to determine next course but all in all, this well-traveled path requires no special guidance. I saw many dogs on this warmer-than-expected sunny day. clear views from the fire tower, which was seeing some pretty gnarly gusts when I was up there. I'm glad i carried an extra shirt in my pack, otherwise i would have been chilled for a while.
This is somehow not on the firetower quest list.
Photos:
Mt Kearsarge North, 20Oct17This made it #17 for me on the 52 WAV list. I would gladly do it again.
Tuesday, October 17, 2017
17 October 2017: Mount Willard
It being peak foliage in this section of NH I wanted to go and crush a quick hike up Mt Willard near Crawford Notch. I knew this one would be amazing as I have been on this ridge before when I did Tom / Field / Willey / Avalon some time ago.
Peak Elevation: 2865 ft.
Elevation Gain: 1100 ft.
Trail: Mt Willard Trail
Length: 4.0 mi
Time on Trail: 1015
Time off Trail: 1200
The trail is not very long but has some moderate steepness to certain sections. The work to get to the top is absolutely worth the effort. Doable for people of many abilities - I did see someone who was probably in her 60's walking up with her husband. Dogs all over the place - I saw 3 Bernese Mountain dogs on this trail! I had a little snack at the top and then descended.
Photos:
Peak Elevation: 2865 ft.
Elevation Gain: 1100 ft.
Trail: Mt Willard Trail
Length: 4.0 mi
Time on Trail: 1015
Time off Trail: 1200
The trail is not very long but has some moderate steepness to certain sections. The work to get to the top is absolutely worth the effort. Doable for people of many abilities - I did see someone who was probably in her 60's walking up with her husband. Dogs all over the place - I saw 3 Bernese Mountain dogs on this trail! I had a little snack at the top and then descended.
Photos:
Mt Willard (NH), 17OCT1717 October 2017: Middle and North Sugarloaf Mountain
My peakbagging day continued as I decided I wasn’t done yet after bagging Willard, I wanted another 52WAV peak. I knew that sugarloaf's peaks were right up the road, so there is where I went.
History: Named by Professor Charles Hitchcock in the 1870’s, likely due to its resemblance to “loaves” of sugar that were the way it was purchased back then, or something along those lines.
Peak Elevation: Middle Sugarloaf 2539 ft. / North Sugarloaf 2310 ft.
Elevation Gain: ~ 1100 ft
Trail: Sugarloaf Trail
Length: 2.5 mi
Time on Trail: 1300
Time off Trail: 1500
Parking here wasn’t really that bad on Zealand Rd. – I got there late and had to deal with no parking spaces so I parked on the shoulder. They were doing some road work on Zealand Rd. The trailhead is just over the bridge, not to be confused with a Nordic skiing trail right off the parking area. I made the mistake of wandering there because I didn’t see the signage at first.
The trail is easy to follow and the steepness isn’t too bad until you get past the junction of the col trail between North and Middle peaks. I saw only one dog on the trail here. I went up Middle first and was blown away at the views from the dome. It primarily faces Hale and Zealand area of the northern rim of the Pemi Loop, but also provides some views north. The total span of this dome’s view is about 270 degrees.
After chatting with some European visitors I descended to take a look at the North peak. One complaint here is that the trail could use some cleanup as I had to wanter through a downed tree’s remnants to find a heading. Once up there, I got a clear view of the area north of Bethlehem, NH. After grabbing my pics I descended the same route I ascended.
Photos:
Afterwards I was pretty bushed – I called it a day and headed home to see the dog and get some grub.
Links:
- https://docs.google.com/document/d/1ex2aH7z7yWhhiHp-BrQjGMZikK2zDhcXzjld0XgT52c/edit
- http://www.hikewithdogs.com/sugarloaf-trail-zealand-road-3-4-mile-round-trip-up-middle-sugarloaf-2539-and-north-sugarloaf-2310/
History: Named by Professor Charles Hitchcock in the 1870’s, likely due to its resemblance to “loaves” of sugar that were the way it was purchased back then, or something along those lines.
Peak Elevation: Middle Sugarloaf 2539 ft. / North Sugarloaf 2310 ft.
Elevation Gain: ~ 1100 ft
Trail: Sugarloaf Trail
Length: 2.5 mi
Time on Trail: 1300
Time off Trail: 1500
Parking here wasn’t really that bad on Zealand Rd. – I got there late and had to deal with no parking spaces so I parked on the shoulder. They were doing some road work on Zealand Rd. The trailhead is just over the bridge, not to be confused with a Nordic skiing trail right off the parking area. I made the mistake of wandering there because I didn’t see the signage at first.
The trail is easy to follow and the steepness isn’t too bad until you get past the junction of the col trail between North and Middle peaks. I saw only one dog on the trail here. I went up Middle first and was blown away at the views from the dome. It primarily faces Hale and Zealand area of the northern rim of the Pemi Loop, but also provides some views north. The total span of this dome’s view is about 270 degrees.
After chatting with some European visitors I descended to take a look at the North peak. One complaint here is that the trail could use some cleanup as I had to wanter through a downed tree’s remnants to find a heading. Once up there, I got a clear view of the area north of Bethlehem, NH. After grabbing my pics I descended the same route I ascended.
Photos:
Middle and North Sugarloaf Mountain (NH); 17OCT17Afterwards I was pretty bushed – I called it a day and headed home to see the dog and get some grub.
Links:
- https://docs.google.com/document/d/1ex2aH7z7yWhhiHp-BrQjGMZikK2zDhcXzjld0XgT52c/edit
- http://www.hikewithdogs.com/sugarloaf-trail-zealand-road-3-4-mile-round-trip-up-middle-sugarloaf-2539-and-north-sugarloaf-2310/
Wednesday, October 11, 2017
11 October 2017: Dickey and Welch Mountains
With foliage season in NH just around the corner I wanted to get onto what is supposed to be one of the best views in the state – The Dickey and Welch loop has nice ledges that offer fantastic views into the white mountains. This was a solo job I took on just to get something productive done with a day off.
History: there wasn’t much out there as far as background on whom these peaks would be named after. If you have any definite info please share! Looking at this ledge I’d say there must have been a substantial forest fire on these peaks some time ago and the terrain never quite recovered fully. The vegetation on this loop once you’re on the ledges seems pretty fragile so hard to imagine it will be a fully wooded peak anytime soon.
Peak Elevation: Dickey Mountain 2734 ft. / Welch Mountain 2605 ft.
Elevation Gain: 1800 ft
Trail: Welch and Dickey Loop Trail, unnamed spur trail to viewppoint on Dickey
Length: 4.4 mi
Time on Trail : 0950
Time off Trail: 1245
I knew what this mountain would offer – nearly 2 miles of open ledges with amazing views. I didn’t quite expect the terrain to be comparable to some of the “easier” 4000 footers in aggressiveness. I read somewhere after this hike that this half0day trip is a good measuring stick for friends who want to do the higher elevation peaks. I wasn’t so lucky here but that’s ok (see first dated entry)
The grading on this loop was pretty manageable. Getting to Welch ledges in no time I kept trucking as I saw that I hadn’t reached the peak of Welch yet. Some of the rock faces going up were fun to stop on because turning around you had this amazing vista behind you. Once I reached Welch’s summit I stopped and chatted with an older couple with their friendly dog. Descnding the col between the peaks, which is deceptively steeper than the topo will lead you to believe, I noted the large cairn. I wonder why that’s there?
Heading back up to Dickey you once again are on a scramble type face, perfectly manageable. The view from Dickey was pretty nice too. I noted on my map that there is a spur trail that leads north to a ledge, about 0.1 mi from the dickey summit. I didn’t see any markings so I followed what I think were a herd path to the small cairns I saw on a rock field of the viewpoint. Breathtaking views see photos. After a brief stop for a snack I descended on the loop;, doing so wasn’t too bad as the trail is marked but sometimes its easy to find yourself wandering off orientation. I also found a blue blazed trail that was not on the maps I had or saw. Does anyone know what this is for? I didn’t see anything online about this but didn’t look very deeply either.
This is a great loop hike perfect for the half-day hikes with astounding views. Absolutely worth the effort and worthy of the 52WAV list.
Photos:
Note: this is entry is slightly backdated.
History: there wasn’t much out there as far as background on whom these peaks would be named after. If you have any definite info please share! Looking at this ledge I’d say there must have been a substantial forest fire on these peaks some time ago and the terrain never quite recovered fully. The vegetation on this loop once you’re on the ledges seems pretty fragile so hard to imagine it will be a fully wooded peak anytime soon.
Peak Elevation: Dickey Mountain 2734 ft. / Welch Mountain 2605 ft.
Elevation Gain: 1800 ft
Trail: Welch and Dickey Loop Trail, unnamed spur trail to viewppoint on Dickey
Length: 4.4 mi
Time on Trail : 0950
Time off Trail: 1245
I knew what this mountain would offer – nearly 2 miles of open ledges with amazing views. I didn’t quite expect the terrain to be comparable to some of the “easier” 4000 footers in aggressiveness. I read somewhere after this hike that this half0day trip is a good measuring stick for friends who want to do the higher elevation peaks. I wasn’t so lucky here but that’s ok (see first dated entry)
The grading on this loop was pretty manageable. Getting to Welch ledges in no time I kept trucking as I saw that I hadn’t reached the peak of Welch yet. Some of the rock faces going up were fun to stop on because turning around you had this amazing vista behind you. Once I reached Welch’s summit I stopped and chatted with an older couple with their friendly dog. Descnding the col between the peaks, which is deceptively steeper than the topo will lead you to believe, I noted the large cairn. I wonder why that’s there?
Heading back up to Dickey you once again are on a scramble type face, perfectly manageable. The view from Dickey was pretty nice too. I noted on my map that there is a spur trail that leads north to a ledge, about 0.1 mi from the dickey summit. I didn’t see any markings so I followed what I think were a herd path to the small cairns I saw on a rock field of the viewpoint. Breathtaking views see photos. After a brief stop for a snack I descended on the loop;, doing so wasn’t too bad as the trail is marked but sometimes its easy to find yourself wandering off orientation. I also found a blue blazed trail that was not on the maps I had or saw. Does anyone know what this is for? I didn’t see anything online about this but didn’t look very deeply either.
This is a great loop hike perfect for the half-day hikes with astounding views. Absolutely worth the effort and worthy of the 52WAV list.
Photos:
Dickey Mountain and Welch Mountain 11OCT17Note: this is entry is slightly backdated.
Tuesday, October 3, 2017
03 October 2017: Mount Cardigan (and Rimrock, South Peak)
This was my second time out with my friend from work, "Zoey", and her dog LOGAN. Logan is a handful and today he had a ball as we explored Mount Cardigan. This is one I will gladly do time and time again, and I would love to try all of the trails up this gem.
History: Cardigan Mountain resides within a state park bearing it's name, this peak offers many things to a vairety of people. The geology of the mountain is notable, as is the network of alpine ski trails in it's shadow on the eastern slopes. Those ski trails were developed by the Civilian Conservation Corps. The summit saw a rather devastating forest fire back in the 1850s and has never truly recovered. The AMC has a lodge on the eastern side of the mountain, making it a popular destination for hikers to set up as a base camp for day hikes.
Peak Elevation: 3156 ft
Elevation Gain: 1100 ft (est)
Trail: West Ridge Trail, South Slide Trail, Skyland Trail
Length: 5.5 mi
Time on Trail : 1000ish
Time off Trail: 1300ish
This was Zoey and I's second hike out - we wanted something quick and fun and Cardigan definitely hit the nail on the head. My friend and her BF are working on the NH48 as well and any hiking to keep fitness up for either of us was a welcome challenge. I was aiming to bag a bunch of of the 52WAV peaks this fall as well. I had intended to advise we try the other side's trails so we could go to Firescrew Mountain, but I had a brainfart on the drive up and we ended up closer to Orange NH. I didn't really care that much about what we did as long as we got out on the trails! Firescrew, I'll be back for you.
West rim trail was pretty easy to get to, parking there is ample (state park fees apply) and the West Ridge Trailhead even has composting toilets for those who need such a thing. The trail offers pretty easy grading for most of the way. It's the most direct way up the mountain peak as well, which comes in handy for weather related rapid descents. We decided that because the mileage was short we could explore the south peak and rimrock as well. We found some of the buildings along the way which are either for nordic skiers or fire wardens, maybe? Or maybe they're something you can reserve? I'll have to do some digging later.
The peak is balder than I am, and offers panoramic views. The fire tower was not open and did not appear to be occupied while we were there. When we arrived we only saw a few other people. LOGAN made a friend who chased him the entire time. The other dog's owner was pretty nice, and I think she thought my friend and I were an item, which was kind of awkward (for me anyhow).
We descended straight down West Ridge Trail at the end of the day. The blazes are clearly marked and I have no complaints about the condition of anything here. It was a remarkably stellar day outside. And I didn't burn too badly!
Photos:
Link to useful info about Hiking Cardigan: https://www.nhstateparks.org/visit/state-parks/Cardigan-Mountain-State-Park.aspx
History: Cardigan Mountain resides within a state park bearing it's name, this peak offers many things to a vairety of people. The geology of the mountain is notable, as is the network of alpine ski trails in it's shadow on the eastern slopes. Those ski trails were developed by the Civilian Conservation Corps. The summit saw a rather devastating forest fire back in the 1850s and has never truly recovered. The AMC has a lodge on the eastern side of the mountain, making it a popular destination for hikers to set up as a base camp for day hikes.
Peak Elevation: 3156 ft
Elevation Gain: 1100 ft (est)
Trail: West Ridge Trail, South Slide Trail, Skyland Trail
Length: 5.5 mi
Time on Trail : 1000ish
Time off Trail: 1300ish
This was Zoey and I's second hike out - we wanted something quick and fun and Cardigan definitely hit the nail on the head. My friend and her BF are working on the NH48 as well and any hiking to keep fitness up for either of us was a welcome challenge. I was aiming to bag a bunch of of the 52WAV peaks this fall as well. I had intended to advise we try the other side's trails so we could go to Firescrew Mountain, but I had a brainfart on the drive up and we ended up closer to Orange NH. I didn't really care that much about what we did as long as we got out on the trails! Firescrew, I'll be back for you.
West rim trail was pretty easy to get to, parking there is ample (state park fees apply) and the West Ridge Trailhead even has composting toilets for those who need such a thing. The trail offers pretty easy grading for most of the way. It's the most direct way up the mountain peak as well, which comes in handy for weather related rapid descents. We decided that because the mileage was short we could explore the south peak and rimrock as well. We found some of the buildings along the way which are either for nordic skiers or fire wardens, maybe? Or maybe they're something you can reserve? I'll have to do some digging later.
The peak is balder than I am, and offers panoramic views. The fire tower was not open and did not appear to be occupied while we were there. When we arrived we only saw a few other people. LOGAN made a friend who chased him the entire time. The other dog's owner was pretty nice, and I think she thought my friend and I were an item, which was kind of awkward (for me anyhow).
We descended straight down West Ridge Trail at the end of the day. The blazes are clearly marked and I have no complaints about the condition of anything here. It was a remarkably stellar day outside. And I didn't burn too badly!
Photos:
Mt Cardigan (Including Rimrock and South peak) 03OCT17Link to useful info about Hiking Cardigan: https://www.nhstateparks.org/visit/state-parks/Cardigan-Mountain-State-Park.aspx
Monday, September 18, 2017
18 September 2017: Sandwich Dome and Jennings Peak
Decided to spend the day going up to bag 2 peaks on the 52WAV list. I decided to take the longer, but easier route up to Sandwich Dome and Jennings peak.
History: The original name for Sandwich Dome was Black Mountain, the name given by the local residents. This changed when the geographer Arnold Guyot published his map of the White Mountains in 1860, when he applied the name Sandwich Dome to the massive peak that straddles the towns of Sandwich and Waterville Valley because there were numerous Black Mountains in New Hampshire. There still are, actually. 15 years later the name was utilized by Charles Hitchcock’s state geological survey, and Moses Sweetser adopted it for his 1876 guidebook., reasoning that the mountain is the most conspicuous peak in Sandwich and that from the lake country to the south it appears as a flattened dome.
Peak Elevation: 3980 ft (Sandwich Dome), 3460 ft (Jennings Peak)
Net Elevation Gain: 2800 ft (approx)
Trail: Drakes’s Brook Trail, Sandwich Mountain Trail, Jennings Peak spur
Length: 11.4 mi
Time on Trail : 0915
Time off Trail: 1500
Getting there is pretty easy, taking NH-49 into Waterville Valley. The parking there is free and the trailhead wasn’t too terrible to find. There are picnic tables there by the trailhead. The Sandwich Mountain Trail departs from the other side of the parking lot. Drake’s brook Trail essentially starts off as an access road that must be or have been used for logging. There are a number of what I presume are Nordic skiing trails along the way.
A partly cloudy day turned out to be a great day to go out and get some elevation therapy. The elevation change over this mileage makes it a nice, easy graded path up for most of the way. Reaching the junction with Sandwich Mountain Trail, I opted to go to Jennings Peak first. The views were pretty good in spite of the low-laying rolling cloud cover that was in the process of burning off as I ascended. I chatted up a gentleman there for a few minutes and then moved on to Sandwich Dome, where I stayed for a bit chatting with two women and their dogs while I basked in the sun a little bit and had a snack. The descent I opted to descend the same way I went up, even though the other route I would have taken would have put me in the same parking lot as I started.
Photos:
This entry is slightly backdated from a time later in 2017.
History: The original name for Sandwich Dome was Black Mountain, the name given by the local residents. This changed when the geographer Arnold Guyot published his map of the White Mountains in 1860, when he applied the name Sandwich Dome to the massive peak that straddles the towns of Sandwich and Waterville Valley because there were numerous Black Mountains in New Hampshire. There still are, actually. 15 years later the name was utilized by Charles Hitchcock’s state geological survey, and Moses Sweetser adopted it for his 1876 guidebook., reasoning that the mountain is the most conspicuous peak in Sandwich and that from the lake country to the south it appears as a flattened dome.
Peak Elevation: 3980 ft (Sandwich Dome), 3460 ft (Jennings Peak)
Net Elevation Gain: 2800 ft (approx)
Trail: Drakes’s Brook Trail, Sandwich Mountain Trail, Jennings Peak spur
Length: 11.4 mi
Time on Trail : 0915
Time off Trail: 1500
Getting there is pretty easy, taking NH-49 into Waterville Valley. The parking there is free and the trailhead wasn’t too terrible to find. There are picnic tables there by the trailhead. The Sandwich Mountain Trail departs from the other side of the parking lot. Drake’s brook Trail essentially starts off as an access road that must be or have been used for logging. There are a number of what I presume are Nordic skiing trails along the way.
A partly cloudy day turned out to be a great day to go out and get some elevation therapy. The elevation change over this mileage makes it a nice, easy graded path up for most of the way. Reaching the junction with Sandwich Mountain Trail, I opted to go to Jennings Peak first. The views were pretty good in spite of the low-laying rolling cloud cover that was in the process of burning off as I ascended. I chatted up a gentleman there for a few minutes and then moved on to Sandwich Dome, where I stayed for a bit chatting with two women and their dogs while I basked in the sun a little bit and had a snack. The descent I opted to descend the same way I went up, even though the other route I would have taken would have put me in the same parking lot as I started.
Photos:
Sandwich Dome, Jennings Peak; 18SEP17This entry is slightly backdated from a time later in 2017.
Friday, September 8, 2017
08 September 2017: Stinson Mountain
On this fine day I decided to sleep an extra two hours but still wanted to get out to do some hiking. I guilted myself to hit the highway without a plan and I settled on Stinson Mountain since I got off to a late start this morning. I had scouted this trailhead out on the maps for just such an occasion. This peak really shows off the beauty of the Rumney / Plymouth area of the state.
History: Once a peak with a fire lookout, initially established in 1911, with a 16' wooden tower. In 1927 a 27' steel tower was erected. This tower remained in service until 1967, and was removed in 1985. The origins of the name evade my research but I imagine it was named for a family that settled in the area, as was the lake bearing the same name.
Peak Elevation: 2900 ft.
Elevation Gain: 1381 ft.
Trail: Stinson Mountain Trail
Length: 3.6 mi
Time on Trail : 1045 ish
Time off Trail: 1300 ish
Getting there mid-morning, I parked right at the trailhead since Doetown rd was driveable in my Jeep. walking that would probably add another half mile total to the hike if you had to hoof it from the main road (Cross rd) to the trailhead. No parking fee here. The trail starts off rather low grade and works up to something a bit more moderate. At about 1.1 miles, there is a split where the hiking trail goes right and a snowmobile trail veers left. I recall a number of what looked like other less official snowmobile trails along the way. The hiking path was pretty easy to follow. Towards the top is some open rock faces with some scarring from snowmobiles.
The view here was fantastic as I had scored a very clear day. The summit used to have some type of watchtower, as evidenced by the footings and steps remaining. There was not much to explore up here. After a quick snack I opted to descend the peak. I was alone my entire time there - the only other soul seen was someone driving past in a truck as I was popping my boots off. A short hike that I imagine is good for easy snowshoeing or winter hiking.
Photos:
Another slightly backdated entry made in 2017
History: Once a peak with a fire lookout, initially established in 1911, with a 16' wooden tower. In 1927 a 27' steel tower was erected. This tower remained in service until 1967, and was removed in 1985. The origins of the name evade my research but I imagine it was named for a family that settled in the area, as was the lake bearing the same name.
Peak Elevation: 2900 ft.
Elevation Gain: 1381 ft.
Trail: Stinson Mountain Trail
Length: 3.6 mi
Time on Trail : 1045 ish
Time off Trail: 1300 ish
Getting there mid-morning, I parked right at the trailhead since Doetown rd was driveable in my Jeep. walking that would probably add another half mile total to the hike if you had to hoof it from the main road (Cross rd) to the trailhead. No parking fee here. The trail starts off rather low grade and works up to something a bit more moderate. At about 1.1 miles, there is a split where the hiking trail goes right and a snowmobile trail veers left. I recall a number of what looked like other less official snowmobile trails along the way. The hiking path was pretty easy to follow. Towards the top is some open rock faces with some scarring from snowmobiles.
The view here was fantastic as I had scored a very clear day. The summit used to have some type of watchtower, as evidenced by the footings and steps remaining. There was not much to explore up here. After a quick snack I opted to descend the peak. I was alone my entire time there - the only other soul seen was someone driving past in a truck as I was popping my boots off. A short hike that I imagine is good for easy snowshoeing or winter hiking.
Photos:
Stinson Mountain. 08sep17Another slightly backdated entry made in 2017
Thursday, August 31, 2017
31 August 2017: Mount Pemigewasset (Indian Head)
This was a real treat of a day. I bagged a quick peak with good sights, and got to venture out with a friend from work and her dog, who is an unstoppable bundle of energy. I will dub my friend "Zoey", for references henceforth.
History: The name "Pemigewasset" comes from the Abenaki (language used by tribes of the Algonquin nation of the northeast US) word for "where side (entering) current is". This peak is also known as Indian Head Mountain, which I imagine is less favored in current times.
Peak Elevation: 2557 ft.
Elevation Gain: ~ 1300 ft
Trail: Mt. Pemigewasset Trail
Length: 3.3 mi
Time on Trail : 0830
Time off Trail: 1230
The hike starts at the Flume Gorge Visitors Center, taking the paved bike path for a few hundred feet before taking a hard left to begin walking under a few underpasses below the roadways. Somewhat marshy, I imagine this section can be bad during the bug season. Once past the roadways, it ascends at a moderate grade on a not-perfectly-marked trail to the peak. Going up we stopped once or twice to get our bearings as it was not perfectly evident where the actual trail was. But once we hit the top it opened up pretty nicely to a good sized ledge with a gnarly drop-off.
While not a blue-sky day it was a good day to be out, as it wasn't raining but rather overcast while we were up there. I imagine if we hung out there a while the sun would have burned off much of the cloud cover. The descent was fun because LOGAN kept stopped to sniff/eat/roll in everything. Zoey let his leash go a few times to let him do his thing well off trail, which resulted in me getting entertainment for the day as he refused to listen. As a Catahoula Lepoard, he was in his element on this mountainside. We got back in the car by noonish, after fighting with LOGAN who didn't want to go home yet.
Not many photos today - I was spending most of my time trying to keep the pace with Zoey and LOGAN.
Photos:
Another slightly backdated entry....
History: The name "Pemigewasset" comes from the Abenaki (language used by tribes of the Algonquin nation of the northeast US) word for "where side (entering) current is". This peak is also known as Indian Head Mountain, which I imagine is less favored in current times.
Peak Elevation: 2557 ft.
Elevation Gain: ~ 1300 ft
Trail: Mt. Pemigewasset Trail
Length: 3.3 mi
Time on Trail : 0830
Time off Trail: 1230
The hike starts at the Flume Gorge Visitors Center, taking the paved bike path for a few hundred feet before taking a hard left to begin walking under a few underpasses below the roadways. Somewhat marshy, I imagine this section can be bad during the bug season. Once past the roadways, it ascends at a moderate grade on a not-perfectly-marked trail to the peak. Going up we stopped once or twice to get our bearings as it was not perfectly evident where the actual trail was. But once we hit the top it opened up pretty nicely to a good sized ledge with a gnarly drop-off.
While not a blue-sky day it was a good day to be out, as it wasn't raining but rather overcast while we were up there. I imagine if we hung out there a while the sun would have burned off much of the cloud cover. The descent was fun because LOGAN kept stopped to sniff/eat/roll in everything. Zoey let his leash go a few times to let him do his thing well off trail, which resulted in me getting entertainment for the day as he refused to listen. As a Catahoula Lepoard, he was in his element on this mountainside. We got back in the car by noonish, after fighting with LOGAN who didn't want to go home yet.
Not many photos today - I was spending most of my time trying to keep the pace with Zoey and LOGAN.
Photos:
Mt Pemigewasset 31AUG17Another slightly backdated entry....
Saturday, June 17, 2017
17 June 2017: Mt. Cabot, The Bulge, The Horn
This was a venture I made with a friend from high school, whom i hiked Mt. Laffayette, Lincoln, and Little Haystack back in 2016 - Lady Bee Wild. Today we went to get some of the more out-of-the-way summits - Mt Cabot, The Bulge and the Horn.
History: Mt Cabot is named for Italian Explorer Sebastian Cabot, known for seeking the Northwest Passage. I imagine the Bulge and the Horn are physical descriptors which stuck in the naming scheme of the area.
Peak Elevation: Mt Cabot 4170 ft; The Horn 3905 ft.; The Bulge 3950 ft
Elevation Gain: 2422 ft (net)
Trail: Unknown Pond Tr., Kilkenny Ridge Tr.
Length: 10.4 mi
Time on Trail : 0900 ish
Time off Trail: 1500 ish
We got on trail by mid-morning, after my Jeep almost killed us with a series of death wobbles. But we made it there and back in one piece! The day looked like it would be clear, but warm and muggy. This did not prepare me for the swath of flies that resided on the mid-to-upper elevations. We also saw wildlife signs on the trail - after much debate i decided it was probably moose scat on trail in 2-3 locations. No actual sightings though.
I knew that the wooded summit of Cabot was not going to offer much to look at aside from maybe some side trails to outlooks, so we made a point to hit the Horn and spend some time taking in the views before moving on. We chatted with a couple of hikers up there while taking in the views, the sun, and some fuel. On our way off the Horn, Lady B. Wild had a spill that luckily did not damage her or her camera. We moved briskly towards the Bulge and Cabot before making headway back to the car - the bugs were bad and the heat index was climbing. We wanted to be done sooner than later and the Jeep was a welcome sight.
Not many photos from this one, the wooded summits of Cabot and the Bulge just encouraged us to keep moving. The Horn was worth the trip to all peaks though.
Photos:
Would I do this one again? maybe, just to see the Horn again. Looking forward to more hikes with Lady B. Wild - she's good people!
History: Mt Cabot is named for Italian Explorer Sebastian Cabot, known for seeking the Northwest Passage. I imagine the Bulge and the Horn are physical descriptors which stuck in the naming scheme of the area.
Peak Elevation: Mt Cabot 4170 ft; The Horn 3905 ft.; The Bulge 3950 ft
Elevation Gain: 2422 ft (net)
Trail: Unknown Pond Tr., Kilkenny Ridge Tr.
Length: 10.4 mi
Time on Trail : 0900 ish
Time off Trail: 1500 ish
We got on trail by mid-morning, after my Jeep almost killed us with a series of death wobbles. But we made it there and back in one piece! The day looked like it would be clear, but warm and muggy. This did not prepare me for the swath of flies that resided on the mid-to-upper elevations. We also saw wildlife signs on the trail - after much debate i decided it was probably moose scat on trail in 2-3 locations. No actual sightings though.
I knew that the wooded summit of Cabot was not going to offer much to look at aside from maybe some side trails to outlooks, so we made a point to hit the Horn and spend some time taking in the views before moving on. We chatted with a couple of hikers up there while taking in the views, the sun, and some fuel. On our way off the Horn, Lady B. Wild had a spill that luckily did not damage her or her camera. We moved briskly towards the Bulge and Cabot before making headway back to the car - the bugs were bad and the heat index was climbing. We wanted to be done sooner than later and the Jeep was a welcome sight.
Not many photos from this one, the wooded summits of Cabot and the Bulge just encouraged us to keep moving. The Horn was worth the trip to all peaks though.
Photos:
Mt Cabot, The Horn, the Bulge 17June17Would I do this one again? maybe, just to see the Horn again. Looking forward to more hikes with Lady B. Wild - she's good people!
Thursday, October 15, 2015
10 October 2015: Mount Waumbek, Mount Starr King
This fine, cool day I went to hike Mt. Waumbek and Mt. Starr King with my roomie. I had not yet ventured this far outside of the normal cluster of the NH48, and my roomie was game to join me on what is touted as an easy hike for a 4000 footer. We were not disappointed.
History / random facts: Mt Wuambek, previously known as "Pliny Major", has little information about it's name meaning or significance. I imagine it is a nod to a Native American culture or person, though. Mt Starr King is named for Thomas Starr King, a minister who lived during the Civil War era. At its summit sits the site of a former lodge, built in the 1940's, that was removed in the 1980's. The fireplace still resides there, loosely marking its location next to an open view eastward.
The Starr King trail is part of the Cohos Trail, a 162 mile trail that spans from Crawford Notch to the Canadian border, where it connects with the Sentier Frontalier's trail to Mount Megantic and Mount Gosford in Canada.
Peak Elevation: Waumbek - 4006 ft.; Starr King - 3907 ft.
Elevation Gain: ~2700 ft.
Trail: Starr King Tr.
Length: 7.2 mi.
Time on Trail : 0925
Time off Trail: 1346
This was a pretty easy hike, the mileage and elevation change made it pretty evenly graded for most of the way. Being mid-fall in northern NH there was already some rhyme ice and standing ice on some portions of the trail. We took our time so as to not have a fall. The summit of Starr King sneaks up on you but has a great view towards the Presidentials. From there, the trail descends a bit before you ascend to the wooded peak of Waumbek, which is inhabited by a colony of Gray Jays year-round.
The gray jays were out there with the people, adventurous and sociable. They were not much of a bother to me or the others who tried to enjoy lunch atop Waumbek at a blowdown-curated viewpoint that seems to be up-kept by hikers. The way down still had ice on it as the mid-day sun was only beginning to melt the sheets of ice encountered on the way up. My roomie dinged up her knee on the way down, luckily only about mile from the car.
Photos:
I would love to tackle this one again, perhaps if I ever do the Cohos Trail?
History / random facts: Mt Wuambek, previously known as "Pliny Major", has little information about it's name meaning or significance. I imagine it is a nod to a Native American culture or person, though. Mt Starr King is named for Thomas Starr King, a minister who lived during the Civil War era. At its summit sits the site of a former lodge, built in the 1940's, that was removed in the 1980's. The fireplace still resides there, loosely marking its location next to an open view eastward.
The Starr King trail is part of the Cohos Trail, a 162 mile trail that spans from Crawford Notch to the Canadian border, where it connects with the Sentier Frontalier's trail to Mount Megantic and Mount Gosford in Canada.
Peak Elevation: Waumbek - 4006 ft.; Starr King - 3907 ft.
Elevation Gain: ~2700 ft.
Trail: Starr King Tr.
Length: 7.2 mi.
Time on Trail : 0925
Time off Trail: 1346
This was a pretty easy hike, the mileage and elevation change made it pretty evenly graded for most of the way. Being mid-fall in northern NH there was already some rhyme ice and standing ice on some portions of the trail. We took our time so as to not have a fall. The summit of Starr King sneaks up on you but has a great view towards the Presidentials. From there, the trail descends a bit before you ascend to the wooded peak of Waumbek, which is inhabited by a colony of Gray Jays year-round.
The gray jays were out there with the people, adventurous and sociable. They were not much of a bother to me or the others who tried to enjoy lunch atop Waumbek at a blowdown-curated viewpoint that seems to be up-kept by hikers. The way down still had ice on it as the mid-day sun was only beginning to melt the sheets of ice encountered on the way up. My roomie dinged up her knee on the way down, luckily only about mile from the car.
Photos:
Mt Waumbek, Mt. Starr King 10Oct15I would love to tackle this one again, perhaps if I ever do the Cohos Trail?
Monday, October 5, 2015
05 October 2015: Mount Tom, Mount Field, Mount Willey, Mount Avalon
Admittedly I have been slacking this year on hiking the 4000 footers, and here was a chance for me to bag a few in one pass. I persuaded Bishop X to come with me on this one, the selling point being that we were going to not only bag 3 of the NH48, but a 52WAV as well. The Willey range has a nice drop-down to Mount Avalon as well, which was a worthy sidetrip on the descent.
History: Mount Tom is named for Thomas Crawford, whose family had a number of inns in the area of Crawford Notch during the 1800’s. Mountt Willey was named for Samuael Willey, whose family lived I the area in the 1820’s and were killed in a landslide in Crawford Notch. Mount Field is named for Darby Field, the first European to climb Mt Washington back in 1642. He was also known for his ability to translate between the Native and Settler populations. I was unable to find a naming etymology for Mount Avalon, but Avalon was a mythical place from the Authurian era, so it could be related to that.
Peak Elevation: 4052ft (Tom), 4327 ft (Field), 4255 ft. (Willey), 3442 ft (Avalon)
Elevation Gain: 2358 ft
Trails: Avalon Trail, A-Z trail, Mt Tom Spur, Willey Range trail
Length: 10.2 mi.
Time on Trail: 0920
Time off Trail: 1630ish
The trip started out at Crawford Depot on the west side of US-302, parking is free here. Crossing the tracks you can see the herdpath to the Avalon trailhead sign pretty clearly. After just over a mile you reach the junction of the A-Z trail, having ventured past the Beecher and Pearl cascades with not a lot of elevation gain to this point (maybe 800ft). Continuing on up the A-Z trail to get to the Willey Range trail for another mile of so, gaining just shy of 1800 ft in elevation gain until you get to the Mt Tom Spur trail. The trip to Mount Tom from here is just over a half mile, and at this point we were glad to have the hefty elevation gains out of the way. Ok I was gladder than Bishop X was because he’s in far better condition than me, and today i was exceptionally slower than he.
Moving on we ventured onward to the Willey Range Trail junction and moved on toward Mt Field, crossing paths with our descending point, the upper terminus of the Avalon Trail. Mt. Field has a side path with a small outlook, but the weather was kind of blah so we did not stay there long. The next stop was Mount Willey, which also has a viewpoint from an unmarked side trail. I find it peculiar that this range is named for Willey but is not the highest mountain on the range, granted there is only a net 20 foot elevation drop here. After bagging the 3rd 4000footer of the day I was keen on getting down and home; Mount Avalon was on the way and we decided that if we made good time we would bag it, but if not we would leave it for another day.
Having made good time we trekked up towards Avalon, which offers great views of the Southern Presidentials and to the southeast of the Willey range. The quick sidetrip (a few hundred yards, maybe?) was worth it for the brief view we took, as there were 2 dudes just taking a nap up there when we arrived, kind of weirded us out so we just snapped a few pictures and moved on. The descent was pretty tame after that point.
Photos:
This entry was backdated, written in 2017.
History: Mount Tom is named for Thomas Crawford, whose family had a number of inns in the area of Crawford Notch during the 1800’s. Mountt Willey was named for Samuael Willey, whose family lived I the area in the 1820’s and were killed in a landslide in Crawford Notch. Mount Field is named for Darby Field, the first European to climb Mt Washington back in 1642. He was also known for his ability to translate between the Native and Settler populations. I was unable to find a naming etymology for Mount Avalon, but Avalon was a mythical place from the Authurian era, so it could be related to that.
Peak Elevation: 4052ft (Tom), 4327 ft (Field), 4255 ft. (Willey), 3442 ft (Avalon)
Elevation Gain: 2358 ft
Trails: Avalon Trail, A-Z trail, Mt Tom Spur, Willey Range trail
Length: 10.2 mi.
Time on Trail: 0920
Time off Trail: 1630ish
The trip started out at Crawford Depot on the west side of US-302, parking is free here. Crossing the tracks you can see the herdpath to the Avalon trailhead sign pretty clearly. After just over a mile you reach the junction of the A-Z trail, having ventured past the Beecher and Pearl cascades with not a lot of elevation gain to this point (maybe 800ft). Continuing on up the A-Z trail to get to the Willey Range trail for another mile of so, gaining just shy of 1800 ft in elevation gain until you get to the Mt Tom Spur trail. The trip to Mount Tom from here is just over a half mile, and at this point we were glad to have the hefty elevation gains out of the way. Ok I was gladder than Bishop X was because he’s in far better condition than me, and today i was exceptionally slower than he.
Moving on we ventured onward to the Willey Range Trail junction and moved on toward Mt Field, crossing paths with our descending point, the upper terminus of the Avalon Trail. Mt. Field has a side path with a small outlook, but the weather was kind of blah so we did not stay there long. The next stop was Mount Willey, which also has a viewpoint from an unmarked side trail. I find it peculiar that this range is named for Willey but is not the highest mountain on the range, granted there is only a net 20 foot elevation drop here. After bagging the 3rd 4000footer of the day I was keen on getting down and home; Mount Avalon was on the way and we decided that if we made good time we would bag it, but if not we would leave it for another day.
Having made good time we trekked up towards Avalon, which offers great views of the Southern Presidentials and to the southeast of the Willey range. The quick sidetrip (a few hundred yards, maybe?) was worth it for the brief view we took, as there were 2 dudes just taking a nap up there when we arrived, kind of weirded us out so we just snapped a few pictures and moved on. The descent was pretty tame after that point.
Photos:
Mt. Tom, Mt. Field, Mt. Willey, Mt. Avalon 05OCT15This entry was backdated, written in 2017.
Friday, June 5, 2015
06 June 2015: Mount Chocorua
Mount Chocourua is one of those peaks that people just love, even though it is just as accessible as the 4000 footers, it provides a great number of trails to pursue and has phenomenal 360 degree views. Today I went with my friend who I haven't come up with a I’ll call MeowMerp. MeowMerp and I are friends since college – and she is great to spend time with out on the trail. Yes, that is be here in the friend zone.
History: There is no definite story behind the name of Mount Chocorua, but there is an ongoing legend about a native local to that area who got on friendly terms with early settlers in the area. The story goes that his n was with a local family and died under their watch, so as revenge Chocorua killed the women and children of the family while the patriarch was away. Upon discovering this, the man pursued Chocorua up this peak, and after being shot, Chocorua laid some kind of curse on the homes, crops and animals of the settlers. There are a few variants of the story but this one seemed the best one to perpetuate.
Peak Elevation: 3480 ft.
Elevation Gain: 2563 ft
Trail: Liberty Trail, Piper trail
Length: 7.6 mi.
Time on Trail : 1130ish
Time off Trail: 1800ish
Unfortunately MeowMerp isn’t a fan of getting up at the asscrack of dawn to get on trail early. I conceded a late start, and we arrived at the trailhead, which is accessible by a dirt road that isn’t friendly to sedans. As we had a late start we didn’t have the best parking options of this full lot which has 2 trailheads. The ascent wasn’t too bad, but I still was not in the best of shape. MeowMerp and I would be heading out to explore Utah a month from this hike, so this helped us bond some before we spent 7 or 8 days together, nonstop. The liberty trail is the easiest ascent this peak has to offer, and that was fine by me. On the way Up we checked out the Liberty Cabin and used the shade to hydrate before moving onward.
The section that gave us the most issues was the upper ledges as we completed the ascent, but with some patience we made it up just fine. The views were as amazing as you have heard this is one of the best views in NH, hands down. The descent was OK once we got past the aforementioned ledges. We had spent a good deal of time up top taking in the views so book time was not on my mind, and im not even mad at the time taken on this hike. I’d love to hik from the otherside one day, maybe when I grab another peak nearby?
Photos:
Note that this is a backdated entry made in 2017.
History: There is no definite story behind the name of Mount Chocorua, but there is an ongoing legend about a native local to that area who got on friendly terms with early settlers in the area. The story goes that his n was with a local family and died under their watch, so as revenge Chocorua killed the women and children of the family while the patriarch was away. Upon discovering this, the man pursued Chocorua up this peak, and after being shot, Chocorua laid some kind of curse on the homes, crops and animals of the settlers. There are a few variants of the story but this one seemed the best one to perpetuate.
Peak Elevation: 3480 ft.
Elevation Gain: 2563 ft
Trail: Liberty Trail, Piper trail
Length: 7.6 mi.
Time on Trail : 1130ish
Time off Trail: 1800ish
Unfortunately MeowMerp isn’t a fan of getting up at the asscrack of dawn to get on trail early. I conceded a late start, and we arrived at the trailhead, which is accessible by a dirt road that isn’t friendly to sedans. As we had a late start we didn’t have the best parking options of this full lot which has 2 trailheads. The ascent wasn’t too bad, but I still was not in the best of shape. MeowMerp and I would be heading out to explore Utah a month from this hike, so this helped us bond some before we spent 7 or 8 days together, nonstop. The liberty trail is the easiest ascent this peak has to offer, and that was fine by me. On the way Up we checked out the Liberty Cabin and used the shade to hydrate before moving onward.
The section that gave us the most issues was the upper ledges as we completed the ascent, but with some patience we made it up just fine. The views were as amazing as you have heard this is one of the best views in NH, hands down. The descent was OK once we got past the aforementioned ledges. We had spent a good deal of time up top taking in the views so book time was not on my mind, and im not even mad at the time taken on this hike. I’d love to hik from the otherside one day, maybe when I grab another peak nearby?
Photos:
Mt Chocorua 06Jun15Note that this is a backdated entry made in 2017.
Wednesday, May 13, 2015
13 May 2015: Grand Monadnock
This peak is in Southern NH, is close to home and was but easy and enjoyable of a hike. I wanted to get a quick but challenging hike in so I went looking for the steepest route to take that would fit in my needs for that day.
History: This mountain’s name derives from a native term lossely translated to “island mountain”, meaning it’s pretty much out there by itself as opposed to being part of a range.
Peak Elevation: 3165 ft
Elevation Gain: 1771 ft
Trail: White Dot Trail, White Cross Trail
Length: 3.9 mi.
Time on Trail : 0945
Time off Trail: 1245
Seeing as I wanted another tune-up after the butt-kicking I got from the Moats, I opted for the White Dot trail as it is just shy of 2 miles to the summit with 1700 of elevation gain. I enjoyed the steep challenge of this trail and even got a kick out of the “halfway point” sign along the way. It’s not long before you’re above the treeline on the bare rock summit. 360 degree views make this a popular destination for the Boston hiking crowd. I descended down the White Cross trail as it ended at the same lot and provided little vista views on the way down.
It’s too bad that dogs are not allowed on this mountain due to state park rules. Here are hundred of better described versions of this hike so I’ll end this here.
Photos:
Note: this is a backdated entry made in 2017
History: This mountain’s name derives from a native term lossely translated to “island mountain”, meaning it’s pretty much out there by itself as opposed to being part of a range.
Peak Elevation: 3165 ft
Elevation Gain: 1771 ft
Trail: White Dot Trail, White Cross Trail
Length: 3.9 mi.
Time on Trail : 0945
Time off Trail: 1245
Seeing as I wanted another tune-up after the butt-kicking I got from the Moats, I opted for the White Dot trail as it is just shy of 2 miles to the summit with 1700 of elevation gain. I enjoyed the steep challenge of this trail and even got a kick out of the “halfway point” sign along the way. It’s not long before you’re above the treeline on the bare rock summit. 360 degree views make this a popular destination for the Boston hiking crowd. I descended down the White Cross trail as it ended at the same lot and provided little vista views on the way down.
It’s too bad that dogs are not allowed on this mountain due to state park rules. Here are hundred of better described versions of this hike so I’ll end this here.
Photos:
Mt Monadnock (Grand Monadnock) 13MAY15Note: this is a backdated entry made in 2017
Friday, May 8, 2015
08 May 2015: Moat Mountain (North, Middle, and South peaks)
My first hike in May was spurned by Bob The Love Goat’s desire to attempt a traverse across the Moat mountain peaks. We got Bishop X and Bob’s dog Boomer on board to come along on a warmish day in early May.
History: The name dats back to the late 1700’s, name given by local residents of Albany NH due to the numerous beaver points that gave the appearance of “Moats” around these peaks on the Eastern side.
Peak Elevation: North Moat: 3196 ft / Middle Moat: 2805 ft. / South Moat: 2770 ft.
Elevation Gain: ~2800 ft
Trail: Moat Mountain Trail (North to south from Diana’s bath to west side road)
Length: 9.7 mi
Time on Trail : 0900
Time off Trail: 1530ish
As this was my first hike of the year, I was pretty excited to jump into another 52WAV peak with some solid elevation gain to ramp myself up for another season tackling the 4000 footers. We did a north-to-south traverse, starting at Diana’s baths and ending at the trailhead on West Side rd. We left a car on the south end of things and zoomed up the road to get going. We started just around 0900, and promptly noted how well groomed the lower section of Diana baths was. Not surprised as it is a popular destination.
Shortly on the trail, we happened upon a man and his dog, this happened to be the Gentleman who wrote Following Atticus, Tom Ryan. After a brief chat we went our separate ways towards a not-well-marked trail past the water features on that side of the mountain. It felt as if we were the first hikers on this route in a long while, judging by the leaf cover where footpaths usually tend to lie on these trails. I have a feeling there are a number of mountain bike paths out this way, too – it just had that feel to it. After a bit of balking on the GPS we decided to head to the treeline and found the trail or maybe a herdpath up the mountain. Once we were above probably 2800 ft, we found some monorail snow cover on the path we were on. I post holed a bit but once the treeline broke the snow vanished. Now would have been a great time to apply Sunscreen, if I had any with me this day. I got roasted a bit. PSA: wear sunscreen.
The summit of the north peak was mostly bald and open views due to the ledges on two sides of the mountain and no other higher peaks around for miles. On a clear day like today was, you could see out to Franconia Ridge and maybe a bit past there, in the correct light. Middle peak was nothing too crazy , but South Moat was great views as well. Going up for Boomer was easy, he loves to just go-go-go, but the rock face on the descent from south proved difficult for him as he was unsure of his footing. BobTheLoveGoat took his pack off and helped him down the few rough sections but he seemed to truck onward after those initial tough spots for a young dog.
Photos:
Note: this is a backdated entry made in 2017.
History: The name dats back to the late 1700’s, name given by local residents of Albany NH due to the numerous beaver points that gave the appearance of “Moats” around these peaks on the Eastern side.
Peak Elevation: North Moat: 3196 ft / Middle Moat: 2805 ft. / South Moat: 2770 ft.
Elevation Gain: ~2800 ft
Trail: Moat Mountain Trail (North to south from Diana’s bath to west side road)
Length: 9.7 mi
Time on Trail : 0900
Time off Trail: 1530ish
As this was my first hike of the year, I was pretty excited to jump into another 52WAV peak with some solid elevation gain to ramp myself up for another season tackling the 4000 footers. We did a north-to-south traverse, starting at Diana’s baths and ending at the trailhead on West Side rd. We left a car on the south end of things and zoomed up the road to get going. We started just around 0900, and promptly noted how well groomed the lower section of Diana baths was. Not surprised as it is a popular destination.
Shortly on the trail, we happened upon a man and his dog, this happened to be the Gentleman who wrote Following Atticus, Tom Ryan. After a brief chat we went our separate ways towards a not-well-marked trail past the water features on that side of the mountain. It felt as if we were the first hikers on this route in a long while, judging by the leaf cover where footpaths usually tend to lie on these trails. I have a feeling there are a number of mountain bike paths out this way, too – it just had that feel to it. After a bit of balking on the GPS we decided to head to the treeline and found the trail or maybe a herdpath up the mountain. Once we were above probably 2800 ft, we found some monorail snow cover on the path we were on. I post holed a bit but once the treeline broke the snow vanished. Now would have been a great time to apply Sunscreen, if I had any with me this day. I got roasted a bit. PSA: wear sunscreen.
The summit of the north peak was mostly bald and open views due to the ledges on two sides of the mountain and no other higher peaks around for miles. On a clear day like today was, you could see out to Franconia Ridge and maybe a bit past there, in the correct light. Middle peak was nothing too crazy , but South Moat was great views as well. Going up for Boomer was easy, he loves to just go-go-go, but the rock face on the descent from south proved difficult for him as he was unsure of his footing. BobTheLoveGoat took his pack off and helped him down the few rough sections but he seemed to truck onward after those initial tough spots for a young dog.
Photos:
The Moats (North, "Middle" and South Moat Mountains) 08May15Note: this is a backdated entry made in 2017.
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