tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30916826513207411922024-02-07T07:39:35.459-05:00Two Brother's HikesScotthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13436440799835611081noreply@blogger.comBlogger133125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3091682651320741192.post-33219574233503658932016-06-18T20:00:00.000-04:002016-06-20T13:54:11.370-04:00Osceola's from Tripoli Rd<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihW0XAyRDndDS37ugyFwo5a0h8EWwqpXwkrzl5uDTr3_d8hWNgDeBWFIQtlO3f-bX9Zkd9wp1rLrWcP1ROM3EY98xGxL-c84D_b1LMkQRbkH-KvG5S8SdLmORyuqPNOekhYa6gB7ImaOJJ/s1600/20160618_100349.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="67" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihW0XAyRDndDS37ugyFwo5a0h8EWwqpXwkrzl5uDTr3_d8hWNgDeBWFIQtlO3f-bX9Zkd9wp1rLrWcP1ROM3EY98xGxL-c84D_b1LMkQRbkH-KvG5S8SdLmORyuqPNOekhYa6gB7ImaOJJ/s320/20160618_100349.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
After my last hike (June 4, 2016 on WTF) I wanted to return to keep the momentum going in the right direction.. UP! Honestly I had a different hike planned but Friday night not feeling like an extra long drive the Osceola's were selected due to a closer proximity to home, a red line by taking the Mount Osceola Trail from the Tripoli Side, addition to the 4K A Day list as well as needing the peaks for June.<br />
<br />
At the trailhead parking lot at 8:15a and it was packed, not a problem since I had forgotten the parking pass in the truck so road side worked for me (mental note - purchase another pass). Footwear change, stretch a bit, grab the pack toward a new trail. According to what research had shown there would be plenty of rocks along the way making it seem difficult to obtain a rhythm though I guess I was wrong reaching the summit of Osceola at 10:05am! This trail was much easier than the Greeley Ponds Trail that I've used the other 7 visits over the past years but enjoyable to continue getting the stamina and muscles back in shape.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RNgnnOKXeMo/V2gjJBgnlUI/AAAAAAAAe6A/-dgVDyT9I0w7vcT4acAjIEs38u2a-nQWACLcB/s1600/20160618_100249.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RNgnnOKXeMo/V2gjJBgnlUI/AAAAAAAAe6A/-dgVDyT9I0w7vcT4acAjIEs38u2a-nQWACLcB/s320/20160618_100249.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ma-bOHB2DYI/V2gjTf6C1XI/AAAAAAAAe6I/fG1JB_AQXeoujEp2qcHQ9LvHTjlJAgFwgCLcB/s1600/20160618_104023.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ma-bOHB2DYI/V2gjTf6C1XI/AAAAAAAAe6I/fG1JB_AQXeoujEp2qcHQ9LvHTjlJAgFwgCLcB/s320/20160618_104023.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Upon arriving at the Osceola peak I was greeted to blinding sun and instant heat however I had the summit to myself for about 15 minutes. Views were gorgeous towards the East Peak and Tripyramids, Chocorua off in the distance but as the sun beat down I knew it was time to head towards the chimney and a short ascent to the view(less) East summit for a small pile of rocks. Legs, ankles and feet still felt surprisingly good after the amount of rocks, chimney was done with ease with an audience (thankfully I didn't misstep at all!). The push towards 4,156 feet was getting close so the outlooks towards Franconia Ridge would have to wait for a few moments. Ahh there is is.. a pile of rocks but I did find the sign, different than most of them but there is was.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VjXmWnl9ktg/V2gpebeI6hI/AAAAAAAAe6g/Jonml7usNv8RjVLMFbjOkecolsHw96gCQCLcB/s1600/20160618_110243.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VjXmWnl9ktg/V2gpebeI6hI/AAAAAAAAe6g/Jonml7usNv8RjVLMFbjOkecolsHw96gCQCLcB/s320/20160618_110243.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSXQBfQa2eGtznZStM10naZKyySG9DXhzyPwUegUDlBoWRCd8pSNgrBvsbdSDEqLIp5qQ0KlnU3mR9ykKeLVatMROUVC9xar5e8RcGPS3i3FcQlLMyJGWOKpdar66CmLz6ZSOR_g02eeHH/s1600/20160618_110315.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSXQBfQa2eGtznZStM10naZKyySG9DXhzyPwUegUDlBoWRCd8pSNgrBvsbdSDEqLIp5qQ0KlnU3mR9ykKeLVatMROUVC9xar5e8RcGPS3i3FcQlLMyJGWOKpdar66CmLz6ZSOR_g02eeHH/s320/20160618_110315.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Bugs biting I figured if I was going to get bitten I might as well enjoy the view to make it worth. Talked with Chad for a bit then backtracking to the chimney and Osceola with fellow hikers who stared down the chimney for the first time without a flinch of an eye. A couple of photos then a few moments later everyone is looking down asking "Is that it?" Ha Steep for the next half mile or so and it went by in a snap thanks to great conversation and plenty of laughs along the way to the yet again blistering opening of Osceola and concrete footings where a fire tower once stood.<br />
<br />
Pictures and snacks, it was time to get on my way before my body decided it was done before getting back to the car. One last drink, pack up and final great to meet you my direction was descending to the all mighty Juke impatiently awaiting my return. The wish was granted about 50-55 minutes later not asking how the day went rather asking when it could have a bath to rid itself of the dirt road grime.<br />
<br />
Until the next time... it was great to meet everyone including but certainly not everyone Chad and his hiking partner, Gwen on her 6th peak and Cheryl on her 3rd 4,000 footers! Scotthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13436440799835611081noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3091682651320741192.post-63225095974589105412016-06-04T22:00:00.000-04:002016-06-09T17:17:56.475-04:00Mt. Willey, Field, Tom and Avalon too<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4zKz1F1sk9SeM_lfRJDaIXsZFWck3-H673pe4_XQJ2RUtji5n0LoKES7LML4S0B8s-EtBieCd94WHa3rcwa6-eQKJ-tgHxMLk_eDwwuwaJR2fub5gEy_0mh5QOzcIuGDFzn94_GiZQbmv/s1600/20160604_083919.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="66" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4zKz1F1sk9SeM_lfRJDaIXsZFWck3-H673pe4_XQJ2RUtji5n0LoKES7LML4S0B8s-EtBieCd94WHa3rcwa6-eQKJ-tgHxMLk_eDwwuwaJR2fub5gEy_0mh5QOzcIuGDFzn94_GiZQbmv/s320/20160604_083919.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMF1l9toWAyYpD6GMsb8Wy8Poprgi-JWnsBT8jwN_0TOpgdrq7HZP6uJz-UpQUh7iwksyN04RzbEu1lRhT2wWOXYN9ZYM2sgzEucDznQjdj8hGQG827i0gkPzNcVnZwHbtxKxCUtmRyvkb/s1600/20160604_110450.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMF1l9toWAyYpD6GMsb8Wy8Poprgi-JWnsBT8jwN_0TOpgdrq7HZP6uJz-UpQUh7iwksyN04RzbEu1lRhT2wWOXYN9ZYM2sgzEucDznQjdj8hGQG827i0gkPzNcVnZwHbtxKxCUtmRyvkb/s320/20160604_110450.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
It's been awhile since I've put a trip report up but then again it's been awhile that I've been out in the White Mountains to enjoy the 4000 foot mountains of New Hampshire. Time goes by quickly with 2015 being a blur with trips such as California twice, 3 Provinces of Canada, Northern Maine, Niagara Falls to name a few plus purchasing a home with 2016 not slowing much. 2016 has found been pretty quick too with other activities such as kayaking and fishing but missing the mountains finally got me to a trip north.<br />
<br />
Going through numerous options from what did I need for what round and of course the <a href="http://www.48x12.com/home.shtml" target="_blank">Grid</a> the selection of Willey, Field and Tom were a perfect fit to add 3 peaks in the month of June while not over extending too far for mileage. Pulled into Crawford Depot shortly before 7a (forgot how much I don't like getting up so early to travel 2 hours and 45 min) with plenty of cars in the parking lot already. A quick stretch then change the footwear, strap on the pack and I'm off along the Avalon Trail finding the familiar brook with plenty of rocks to hop across. I thought I'd have a hard time getting my legs under me once the elevation started however the legs kept churning making it to the trail junction of the A-Z Trail in 30 minutes! Continuing along the Avalon trail the elevation finally started to tax my legs along the next 0.5 miles to the spur up to Mt. Avalon with a few stops and taking close to 40 minutes but overall feeling great. The views from this 3,442 ft peak was stunning as usual and another visit to a peak on the <a href="http://4000footers.com/list_52wav.shtml" target="_blank">52 With A View.</a><br />
<br />
Took about 20 minutes to attempt to relax a bit but the black flies made sure that wasn't going to happen, vicious little things! Down the 100 yards to Avalon Trail and another mile to go towards Willey Range Trail went pretty well, uneventful and quickly with few stops along the way. Trails were in good shape and looked like a few recent cleanups from a few trees downed through the previous winter. Mt. Field was just as I remembered it, a pile of rocks in a small clearing and disturbed by the trees that had been cut over the last couple of years for a view towards the Highland Center. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-x5eDhUlRYmw/V1nUFU6P3MI/AAAAAAAAeng/U-uluLsd0aEIBUn6tw5zHnCWpcJ9TyPcACLcB/s1600/20160604_101720.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-x5eDhUlRYmw/V1nUFU6P3MI/AAAAAAAAeng/U-uluLsd0aEIBUn6tw5zHnCWpcJ9TyPcACLcB/s320/20160604_101720.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikh13BMlOLQF2vjuQEEaT77r2sYS2juloOqHINdfA9qjgzIK4VYPESJEM6nUNtJCkbnn-_AJ4SeYacT7pBmD3JejfCt0gLcEWMqj2gX5_gTBn0JPwJIuwRK0jJVpddslXui-fZ94iIIOIa/s1600/20160604_104250.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikh13BMlOLQF2vjuQEEaT77r2sYS2juloOqHINdfA9qjgzIK4VYPESJEM6nUNtJCkbnn-_AJ4SeYacT7pBmD3JejfCt0gLcEWMqj2gX5_gTBn0JPwJIuwRK0jJVpddslXui-fZ94iIIOIa/s320/20160604_104250.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Mt. Willey was up next, I love this section of trail with a few PUDS and small section that was at one time littered with trees covering the trail that has been cleaned up nicely. Once at the small pile of rocks and a about 50 feet past is a gorgeous outlook of the Webster Cliffs and southern Presidential Range. Sharing this with a few others that arrived and feeding a Gray Jay or two always brings a smile that can only be found at the summits of 4K's regardless of which ones. Pack is back on and backtrack the way I got here, finding the trail a little more difficult on the return trip but again nothing terrible. Happy with the way my body is feeling for the return to the Whites Mt Field is a welcome site after the 1.3 mile trek. Grab a snack and chat with other hikers, mostly starting their quests of 48 and their journeys before heading to Mt. Tom, a welcome easy trail of 0.9 miles. <br />
<br />
At the Tom Spur I debated on leaving my pack but thought better of it for a snack out by the small pile of rocks. This section always gets to me with a few stops, never feeling like the 0.6 miles it really is. The growth continues over the peak and more gray jays looking for handouts. Dark clouds rolling in and out but overall the sun has been shining all day with a gentle breeze. Figuring that I'll start to get tired and muscles sore I spent little time here before deciding that it was time to go making quick work getting back to the junction and exiting "Stage Left" the final 2.3 miles.<br />
<br />
Declining from here brings fond memories of past trips through the winter months of butt sliding and the speed, laughter and great friends that have joined along the way. Back at the car and ready for the next adventure, hopefully it won't be another 6 - 8 months away.Scotthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13436440799835611081noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3091682651320741192.post-65561303679064588982015-11-08T20:30:00.000-05:002015-11-09T11:55:30.347-05:00Mt. Pierce and Eisenhower<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqClN8U3JAJyD4I2jmu5vTZzfP62obzR3eMOnQ2-aeAbsS07O0jPRhB0NVAAskToNneZT0qccfcx2Yawx27HboDmbny0L-3Xvju08QJ6NgCSnK3fv2NV3ah70ua6-Y-fWhBDx0eNpk0qSn/s1600/20151108_101256.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="80" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqClN8U3JAJyD4I2jmu5vTZzfP62obzR3eMOnQ2-aeAbsS07O0jPRhB0NVAAskToNneZT0qccfcx2Yawx27HboDmbny0L-3Xvju08QJ6NgCSnK3fv2NV3ah70ua6-Y-fWhBDx0eNpk0qSn/s320/20151108_101256.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmZigsdnNnTicqHNeqjnqii1i3OiSRe4f1ZZzFJUsxJVPGBOWEv-22UfrMrabEgEpXIk6z4u2u8xDzkQ_bkCzVZFcKKf7S2pY_lRNBjtB310ZLIzqk2ZAsfQZVu-YX-YwCdyzOpmddf1qO/s1600/20151108_101210.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div>
<br />
It's been quite awhile since I'd had the opportunity to head for the high peaks, it took a friend of mine, <span class="entity _4v1s" data-fulltext="Dan McGinness" data-group="all" data-icon="null" data-select="group" data-si="true" data-text="Dan McGinness" data-type="ent:user" data-uid="1331500365">Dan McGinness,</span><span data-si="true"> finishing his Grid to get me there. Where the majority of the group was heading up to tag Mt. Jackson first starting at 8a, I figured that would allow me to start at 8:30a up Crawford Path to Mt. Pierce at my own pace then to the ending party spot atop Mt. Eisenhower 4780'.</span><br />
<span data-si="true"><br /></span>
<span data-si="true">Crawford Path was just as I remembered it, rocky and wet but a fairly steady incline to get my legs moving. Weather was perfect with no snow to begin though it would slowly start showing itself in the tree branches while avoiding some of the slightly frozen over mud holes. It wouldn't be long until I met a couple (and their energetic 8 year old Golden Retriever) descending from an unsuspecting snowfall near the Mizpah Hut tent sites overnight, a good chuckle but they were in great spirits. Reaching the Mizpah Cut-Off I caught up with 2 hikers that as it would end up hiking with to the summit of not only Mt. Pierce but also Mt. Eisenhower. Great conversations made the next 1.2 miles go by very quickly, reaching the opening towards the Northern side in spectacular fashion before heading up to tap the Mt. Pierce cairn for the 9th time.</span><br />
<span data-si="true"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXEPBf3liX7UsuiZ9rZqsuCzF8pBQmVsxkjW8G0alVAdE8phn4Lpd8KjOtcu-vQYNbCIkjoQrahiQF-RJ0kkHIi71rFIh4UFa7EbUMrElElsUUN4IprLCfahfLcqMjGhbAFEzlcdM_Qww5/s1600/20151108_101210.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXEPBf3liX7UsuiZ9rZqsuCzF8pBQmVsxkjW8G0alVAdE8phn4Lpd8KjOtcu-vQYNbCIkjoQrahiQF-RJ0kkHIi71rFIh4UFa7EbUMrElElsUUN4IprLCfahfLcqMjGhbAFEzlcdM_Qww5/s320/20151108_101210.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT9jBfwoZp5OG90nLTbAAiBMsny2wZ7HKNgQTNycE0Tj0MLgZLmsSQeT39FzK6xzJXRz1Wq0DyiqSvJwCuBsy_fM8SXzJPjuZHZDM2-39xAVOxcztabqElIXp5wbPXxdov5CrwGCalT7EX/s1600/20151108_101221.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT9jBfwoZp5OG90nLTbAAiBMsny2wZ7HKNgQTNycE0Tj0MLgZLmsSQeT39FzK6xzJXRz1Wq0DyiqSvJwCuBsy_fM8SXzJPjuZHZDM2-39xAVOxcztabqElIXp5wbPXxdov5CrwGCalT7EX/s320/20151108_101221.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
With the winds continuing to gain momentum the decision was made to head over to see Ike up close and personal. Rocks covered in a light snow and in some spots ice made for careful placement of footsteps and thankfully nobody fell. Finding a spot that would shelter a bit from the wind was a perfect spot to have a snack and catch my breath knowing what was to come shortly in the way of an ascent. Falling back and taking my time with a few breaks along the way ensured that I would not be completely drained on the return trip but also gave the summit and glorious views to them for their first time with one of largest cairns in all the Whites. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dm8qCu44pG0/VkDMLxBZ_BI/AAAAAAAAdz8/ZaNkKPynsgc/s1600/20151108_114535.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dm8qCu44pG0/VkDMLxBZ_BI/AAAAAAAAdz8/ZaNkKPynsgc/s320/20151108_114535.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj33ShzbN4yYxio05n8nLLe1dWybodFsKad9likwKSWVZ4APe4yFXgnLpxjOtB132PJuimKkXjPVpvgqpm9DNPc1pQnHmEtCXtP9hbkt5SWJicAWQqtNpeKEmUHTu8CObSEOBDvsQ-ZHfyl/s1600/20151108_114552.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj33ShzbN4yYxio05n8nLLe1dWybodFsKad9likwKSWVZ4APe4yFXgnLpxjOtB132PJuimKkXjPVpvgqpm9DNPc1pQnHmEtCXtP9hbkt5SWJicAWQqtNpeKEmUHTu8CObSEOBDvsQ-ZHfyl/s320/20151108_114552.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
A quick congratulations and they were off towards Edmands Col to hopefully escape the winds and elements quicker than heading back the way they came. I'd set out on the day to be at the summit for when the Grid party arrived however after 45 minutes of heavy winds the decision was made to hopefully catch them on their way. Shortly before getting back to the Pierce junction there was a decent size group going by apologizing for the large group having a blast towards the momentous occasion. Funny thing is that at this time of year people you know you don't even recognize once the warm weather gear starts! Stopped and talked with Dan for a minute or two, congratulating him on his achievement while apologizing for the poor timing to be there for the actual crowning of "King Dan".<br />
<br />
After that was a quick descent of the Crawford Path to the Highland Center over slippery rocks, again thankfully no spills. Legs were tired and sore knees but overall I felt great and left me wanting more time in the White Mountains. Two peaks today puts my personal grid totals to 287 with 289 peaks remaining and 49.8%... slowly picking away.<br />
<br />
Thanks for reading<br />
<br />
<br />Scotthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13436440799835611081noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3091682651320741192.post-49751808790052238972014-11-22T22:30:00.000-05:002014-11-23T13:13:41.274-05:00Mt. Willey, Field, Tom and Avalon Too<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinthX5YIZmgxsRlyBqBnESQm_h3Fz9vCr9xbXXxd0_f_f8Naavo1vmDQ7wKbIj_m8EqjVF_KSWJXqj0KnjN3aZTtg8HamZK4D24peiEh0A4dNDfsGgkGQHyDNEvTsLB0fW9AuutE6OBqtv/s1600/20141122_093504.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinthX5YIZmgxsRlyBqBnESQm_h3Fz9vCr9xbXXxd0_f_f8Naavo1vmDQ7wKbIj_m8EqjVF_KSWJXqj0KnjN3aZTtg8HamZK4D24peiEh0A4dNDfsGgkGQHyDNEvTsLB0fW9AuutE6OBqtv/s1600/20141122_093504.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-spgsDooAxuc/VHIHBfHSgCI/AAAAAAAAWIs/mMFpi62zcJ4/s1600/20141122_093516.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-spgsDooAxuc/VHIHBfHSgCI/AAAAAAAAWIs/mMFpi62zcJ4/s1600/20141122_093516.jpg" height="106" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Knowing that temps were going to be close to single digits I thought it would be a good day to stay below treeline and besides I hadn't visited these for awhile. There were more cars at Crawford Depot then I expected catching up to a group of 3 at the brook crossing, to my surprise was frozen over and very stable for the 3rd week of November. A short bit after they let me pass, snow and ice covered the trail between here and the Avalon Junction where I stopped to put on Microspikes that would be on for the rest of the day. Escaping my memory as always is the amount of effort it takes to get to the 3,442ft of Mt. Avalon but today I would be rewarded for braving the cold. It was just below here that I would meet Ken and Karen for the first of many times on the day. Views were spectacular taking pictures, gawking like a tourist not paying attention to time passing but so worth it.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XL2ZExlov2Y/VHIR7dI5YpI/AAAAAAAAWJ8/OXGe8Ci49vc/s1600/20141122_093433.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XL2ZExlov2Y/VHIR7dI5YpI/AAAAAAAAWJ8/OXGe8Ci49vc/s1600/20141122_093433.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZDDitI7RR4s/VHIR9bDya8I/AAAAAAAAWKE/-5cTektvT9w/s1600/20141122_093918.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZDDitI7RR4s/VHIR9bDya8I/AAAAAAAAWKE/-5cTektvT9w/s1600/20141122_093918.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
The next mile would be a little under 1000 feet of elevation taking about 40 minutes to reach Mt. Field which has no views that I remember the last time I visited Jan 2013. It appears that just off the cairn there is a clearing towards the Presidential Range similar to Mt Avalon, not sure how I feel about this one as not every 4K needs a view. Continuing along the Willey Ridge Trail for the next 1.4 miles is normally not one of my favorites but today seemed to go quickly including meeting Summerset and Ethan as they were on their way back. Just before the last push to Willey a solo hiker, Jay, who had come up from the Ethan Pond Tr side up and over the multiple ladders was on his way to Mt. Field then turn around and head back. I let him know that if he wanted to summit Mt. Tom he's have a ride back to his car, he gratefully accepted and told him I'd catch up with him before the day was over as Ken and Karen were also on their way back. Passed the Willey cairn to the outlook and though the Presidential Range is always impressive the Webster Cliffs were magical with ice glimmering in the sun.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rDtnas4QJz8/VHIZNIAJeYI/AAAAAAAAWKU/wTtambXL17Q/s1600/20141122_113028.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rDtnas4QJz8/VHIZNIAJeYI/AAAAAAAAWKU/wTtambXL17Q/s1600/20141122_113028.jpg" height="153" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
After a few minutes it was time to traverse familiar ground and see about catching up to those in front of me which took the entire 1.4 miles but would end up spending the rest of the day talking hiking stories and trips. This section of the Willey Ridge Trail is 0.9 miles of a gentle decline and a fast moving area in no time the A-Z Trail Junction appears only 80 YDS from the Mt. Tom Spur. Grabbing a granola bar and a drink my pack would keep the spur sign company while we made our way the 0.5 miles to the 3rd summit of the day. Still feeling good, legs were strong and my breathing consistent I was able to keep up without stopping tapping the end of my trek pole on the cairn of Mt. Tom continuing to the view point towards Pemigewasset Wilderness Area. Winds picking up we didn't stay long passing the cairn on the return trip over to a small view point of the Presidential Range and Webster Cliffs, with growth this view may go away over the next numerous years.<br />
<br />
Now the easy part, back to the spur to collect my my pack then 2.4 miles to finish the trip to Crawford Station, an always welcome sight to me. As promised I brought Jay to the Willey Station Road but with the icy road I dared only go up the first hill affording a safe place for a 23-point turn in the road with an older Toyota Celica. After thanking me multiple times for the ride I found it what we as hikers do, leave no person behind.<br />
<br />
It's not often you hear that a trip on Willey, Field and Tom was an incredible one, mine was remarkable with such views you dream of. Meeting Summerset and Ethan, Ken and Karen, Jay among many others on the day when I expected to see no one. Thank you everyone and look forward to seeing everyone on trails soon<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Scotthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13436440799835611081noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3091682651320741192.post-40286871337716653272014-11-15T20:28:00.001-05:002014-11-15T20:28:29.254-05:00Temple Mountain, Holt and Burton Peaks<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkXWHsP8SFyZQITAR0SkhQUL6rZCYkbG3114MS3VcTD4Fug6EE-NnvVgQKi6mUagWB8K-HDyrgZtneEUuD0pC3uVVJfIAnuUU7z6XTJp4HsIHC39k1Lulbmkf2QyuHF5_Pjew8rOx5acG6/s1600/20141115_135917.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkXWHsP8SFyZQITAR0SkhQUL6rZCYkbG3114MS3VcTD4Fug6EE-NnvVgQKi6mUagWB8K-HDyrgZtneEUuD0pC3uVVJfIAnuUU7z6XTJp4HsIHC39k1Lulbmkf2QyuHF5_Pjew8rOx5acG6/s1600/20141115_135917.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWRo8QQV0kBfmcaiZSWpnpmLxbIZuSV1hPGxTdWQZlEQTUZudEScSsrTkeIN4zD8QiTcOaGa1rrlUMWiaC6f2aa6wNoz3rH3IN6KB4Kdd-8hOTnHROoWbIffn3E99YjIeCR-0PFEv0YWl6/s1600/20141115_140013.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWRo8QQV0kBfmcaiZSWpnpmLxbIZuSV1hPGxTdWQZlEQTUZudEScSsrTkeIN4zD8QiTcOaGa1rrlUMWiaC6f2aa6wNoz3rH3IN6KB4Kdd-8hOTnHROoWbIffn3E99YjIeCR-0PFEv0YWl6/s1600/20141115_140013.jpg" height="83" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
After a morning on Gap Mountain and all types of gear in the car I was in search of somewhere else I hadn't been yet in the local area. Temple Mountain years back was a ski area shut down after the 2000-01 season sold later and trails seem to have gotten a great facelift, history of the area can be found here http://www.nelsap.org/nh/templemtn.html/<br />
<br />
Leaving the parking lot goes up an old dirt road then leaving on the Wapack Trail with yellow upside down triangles as the blazes. This doesn't last long as it turns into a steep dirt road and after being out earlier in the day it certainly seemed steep! Just below the mobile antennas it darts off to the right into the woods to bypass the antenna, common with ski areas from my experience over the years. A short bypass then caught up to a group that had started out awhile before I did but out of courtesy I didn't pass instead yet enjoy the borderline freezing temps until there was a outcrop that could might have been the summit but not quite yet. I took the lead from here for the next 2 minutes finding numerous cairns, stone furniture and a campfire ring or two, Holt Peak it is!<br />
<br />
After a brief break deciding to continue on to Burton Peak, a wooden summit but promised a spur with views that didn't quite live up to it's billing in mid afternoon. Even though I had my headlamp and extra clothing just as I would above 4000 feet I didn't want to get caught out in an area I wasn't familiar with turning around and beat feet back to the radio tower. Instead of taking the same way down the Beede Trail seemed a good option switchbacks down the defunct ski area arriving at the parking lot in no time at all with plenty of time to still stop at EMS in Peterborough.<br />
<br />
Not above 4000 feet but a couple of areas on the day that I hadn't visited in my over 25 years of living in the Monadnock area. I wonder what tomorrow may bringScotthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13436440799835611081noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3091682651320741192.post-92035346752318535822014-11-15T20:04:00.001-05:002014-11-15T20:04:40.511-05:00Staying Local on Gap Mountain<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhO0LoPfLN9eURgIEdmwjHD6LArQnU-DeuR5DucwBRTgGkhlEFbKF2yuEmfpbzV6LuRfe_gV0VJcRFRtAsHlXFEenvLCmqovPO9BliZiNbUWywOh3dewfgLwk5LXec1NJDIYCDWwUDp4qee/s1600/20141115_114859.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhO0LoPfLN9eURgIEdmwjHD6LArQnU-DeuR5DucwBRTgGkhlEFbKF2yuEmfpbzV6LuRfe_gV0VJcRFRtAsHlXFEenvLCmqovPO9BliZiNbUWywOh3dewfgLwk5LXec1NJDIYCDWwUDp4qee/s1600/20141115_114859.jpg" height="80" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zFQ6VvW-Idc/VGfzIqsZqgI/AAAAAAAAVzU/Q7KN2zz3gLY/s1600/20141115_120831.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zFQ6VvW-Idc/VGfzIqsZqgI/AAAAAAAAVzU/Q7KN2zz3gLY/s1600/20141115_120831.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Original plan was to follow-up this past Thursday on Carter Ridge with a Mt. Morgan & Mt. Percival Loop in Holderness however when I woke up Saturday morning it didn't seem to be the right choice. I don't know if it was the 4 hours of driving, weather not predicted to be any warmer than say 30 degrees, legs not fully healed or a combination of all of the above but I decided to lounge a bit and find something local to explore. After looking through my maps and Internet searches I came up with Gap Mountain promising unobstructed views of Mt. Monadnock.<br />
<br />
Finding the trailhead was difficult passing the dirt road a first time turning around at the Monadnock State Parking area on Rt. 124 where there were quite a few people heading up in jeans and hoodies, thankfully knowing I was not going to be joining them for the day. Finding Bullock Road on my double back with a parking lot towards the end, surprisingly plenty of trucks already there and my assumption was not for hiking. <br />
<br />
After the kiosk with an area map and a donation box (which after taking the trails I highly recommend) that upon my return I dropped a measly $10 after seeing the amount of work that has been done. Bog bridges are immediate as you start off with white blazes the entire way with no apparent way to get lost walking through the forest coming across the upper end of Bullock Rd which has the feel of an unmaintained jeep road. Stone walls to your side to the Royce Trail Junction that enters with blue blazes but the Metacomet Monadnock Trail continues to head upwards lightly covered in snow. A brisk incline that never really relents until you reach the Gap Mtn sign that heads to the left but couldn't help but take a right where a mountainside orchard opens up expecting to see a hunter or two. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EI2_iHOXovw/VGf1rnENHCI/AAAAAAAAV0Y/-5YXWCaCahc/s1600/20141115_113502.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EI2_iHOXovw/VGf1rnENHCI/AAAAAAAAV0Y/-5YXWCaCahc/s1600/20141115_113502.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdYCfTz39UWk6hwg3eEkRvzKwIBqqNsngOJUW2-H5TJ1vd5dL6634BFY3_EhyphenhyphenzA0rsFhOJw9DwyOMnE4eB63NsVxo760qodrNjqesmQsot1YZL6hCK8ofNGAZz32RotHaJeDZJYpmv8-TP/s1600/20141115_113542.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdYCfTz39UWk6hwg3eEkRvzKwIBqqNsngOJUW2-H5TJ1vd5dL6634BFY3_EhyphenhyphenzA0rsFhOJw9DwyOMnE4eB63NsVxo760qodrNjqesmQsot1YZL6hCK8ofNGAZz32RotHaJeDZJYpmv8-TP/s1600/20141115_113542.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
The summit is not far from here and it is not short of spectacular surroundings similar to Mt. Israel in Center Sandwich, views of Mt. Monadnock were as good as promised if not better today and I had them all to myself. Taking as much time as I wanted finally seeing my first visitors of the day... 18 Wild Turkeys heading my way about 30 feet away! Grabbed the pack and down I headed taking no time before reaching the jeep road and back to the car. <br />
<br />
It was below 4000 feet by far this morning but the views and solitude were remarkable. I suggest taking a look at the link to this beautiful area in any season. <br />
<br />
http://gapmountain.org/trails.htm<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Scotthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13436440799835611081noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3091682651320741192.post-61235336889819939342014-11-13T21:30:00.000-05:002014-11-14T12:56:11.399-05:00Shoulder season hike along the Carter Ridge<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6285qa5MI4HxoeQyefS0W7bDDhX_hLF228Vr3EVqXEeB3lGh2aVHGFlGL7piwRLeXtG6_MxVH19NUJikbCeNTaR_TiQ_AbpscWbSKwLoIy-O4elfcFqSK___JyLq1effbNpX9tWACvOdL/s1600/20141113_124823.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6285qa5MI4HxoeQyefS0W7bDDhX_hLF228Vr3EVqXEeB3lGh2aVHGFlGL7piwRLeXtG6_MxVH19NUJikbCeNTaR_TiQ_AbpscWbSKwLoIy-O4elfcFqSK___JyLq1effbNpX9tWACvOdL/s1600/20141113_124823.jpg" height="116" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
The only question of the day was which direction was I going to go.. Nineteen Mile Brook Trail and up the Carter-Moriah Trail until I reached North Carter & Imp Trail or the reverse and brave the descent to the Hut with whatever might be there. On a whim I thought back to one of my childhood movies and declared "Strike that, reverse it!" Parked my car at where I would end up and got the road walk out of the way first heading up through Camp Dodge and the short "cutoff" to the Imp Trail.<br />
<br />
Normally I don't see the actual trails in this area having been mostly covered in snow, I can honestly say I think I like it better that way. For some reason I was feeling sluggish after a mile, wondering if maybe I hadn't gotten enough sleep, the long 3+ hour drive to get here but in any case the only direction I was heading was up. It was pretty cold when I left the car but it was either starting to warm up a bit or I was finally in rhythm, rolling back sleeves and pant legs into shorts (a common occurrence this time of year), believe me it is no fashion statement! 3.2 miles in the Imp Trail meets up with the North Carter Trail for the next 1.2 miles but before continuing what better place to stop for a moment to catch my breath and a small snack, the McDonald's Sausage Burrito had worn off a mile so beforehand. <br />
<br />
So far the trails had been snow free with traces starting to appear here and there but no need for traction. Elevation gains about 1200 feet over this stretch and it felt like it with my heart pumping overtime and breath seemingly snatched before I could inhale. Short breaks every 75-100 feet whether I needed it or not, I find it much easier to recover when not fully exhausted. Before long the trail junction for the Carter-Moriah Trail the skies were starting to open up a bit however still mostly clouded over so far. I knew the summit was getting close where the trail resembles a path with a few roots mixed in, here it is and there it went as I passed by on my way to South Carter approximately 1.3 miles away. <br />
<br />
Small openings to look back at where I had been and where I was heading, I thought about taking the camera out for a few pictures but with the temps appeared to be dropped, wind picked up I was bundled back up, thankfully I've been here before :) Along the way I'd been treated to what sounded like military maneuvers in the clouds assisting in taking my mind off the walk to South Carter. Not much time was spent here either wanting to keep myself moving hoping that I'd make up a bit of time on the downhill between here and Zeta pass. Upon arrival I was greeted by a familiar sight, a log bench that was certain to assist in catching my breath for the next several minutes knowing that it was a decent climb to Mt. Hight at 4,675 feet. <br />
<br />
I was right unfortunately and this section kicked my ass! Trail conditions ended up a little slippery for my liking and being a Thursday and seen no one I decided this was a good spot to take the Microspikes out for awhile. A view from here would have been nice and would have eaten lunch here however it appears that would not be the case today so continuing on to Carter Dome it was. Along the way I was reminded by a junction sign that I still wanted to take the Black Angel Trail at some point in the future. Just below the Dome summit is a trampled off-shoot opening to a spectacular view towards the Northern Presidential Range, clouds passing in the entire direction just made the trip that much better.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JxbyFMDbmXY/VGYTS90MZyI/AAAAAAAAVgw/ERYAAi9N8fg/s1600/20141113_111303.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JxbyFMDbmXY/VGYTS90MZyI/AAAAAAAAVgw/ERYAAi9N8fg/s1600/20141113_111303.jpg" height="94" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOUJ0xOmabfMBE1rdfiEAKM0-vDY3PLjcTjmhDbxS9EKtFszq4Hprb3uxgcQhbFJ7wkKNOdFjOMCT04J_r4Dj6d2Dg_UagMpU3C0buZFtZbbhht5Br69hYNxxKNqfOwpVZBgbYJvULW_Al/s1600/20141113_112015.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOUJ0xOmabfMBE1rdfiEAKM0-vDY3PLjcTjmhDbxS9EKtFszq4Hprb3uxgcQhbFJ7wkKNOdFjOMCT04J_r4Dj6d2Dg_UagMpU3C0buZFtZbbhht5Br69hYNxxKNqfOwpVZBgbYJvULW_Al/s1600/20141113_112015.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGQyYvcNLpSk7z5RhDUrSNKhFV8pU6njxNW8tGlvp5LZTG5VTfF8xt-6j5jLf8TWEfeJCQT-QNX-29HyslNAE5dUWhZmbW1-taPm8qxyAAiojXBedEJD9jr2u9HSVrBrm_Hu1W4akHIMya/s1600/20141113_111410.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGQyYvcNLpSk7z5RhDUrSNKhFV8pU6njxNW8tGlvp5LZTG5VTfF8xt-6j5jLf8TWEfeJCQT-QNX-29HyslNAE5dUWhZmbW1-taPm8qxyAAiojXBedEJD9jr2u9HSVrBrm_Hu1W4akHIMya/s1600/20141113_111410.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Energized I found the open/wooded top of Carter Dome for a picture or two while the camera was out and continue on down to the Hut. I figured since I had gawked at the scenery that I already had my break and was looking forward to what the descent from 4,832 feet to 3288 feet over a 1.2 mile stretch. It wasn't far from the summit that I would see the first and only hikers of the day, Bob and Dusty and their friend Jessica. A couple of minutes to chat and separate directions we went, they were doing the same trip in the traditional loop and appeared to be having a fantastic day. They let me know that I wouldn't be needing traction after about 300 feet or so with the trails dried out all the way down to the Hut and they were right.<br />
<br />
Bypassing the View outlook on the way there is an opening down towards the Hut area and it's ponds appearing to be half frozen over. It doesn't take long to get down from here where I had the Hut to myself for a warmer place to sit to eat lunch, change layers then down the Nineteen Mile Brook trail to my awaiting car. Plenty of rocks to hop on without the leave covering I'd been getting used to on recent trips such as Ice Gulch and Whiteface/Passaconaway. Nineteen Mile Brook was moving without hesitation and dropping the area a couple of degrees when you get closer to it. A welcome spot is always the old damn area with it's wall still standing and shack off to the side reminding me that I didn't have long to go from there. I did see something different shortly after whether it be that I had never paid attention before or because there was normally 3+ feet of snow prior, in any event there was a Land Survey Marker that I have seen other places but a small cairn of sorts with red along most of the them with a survey marker in the middle dated 1993.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg37rkz6t-hISOX1qtkZ-DPdCwVxLwVZlDnZvnKV57lLAlmTNu7A7okwiSD0y-TcKo1qtk08O042V9avtbc30LbCT2FN4b8gQxYVIM7qehy1HOIP7JdcnJMKeNCXJcVR0Nhi3v0Tj_2HyqO/s1600/20141113_083203.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg37rkz6t-hISOX1qtkZ-DPdCwVxLwVZlDnZvnKV57lLAlmTNu7A7okwiSD0y-TcKo1qtk08O042V9avtbc30LbCT2FN4b8gQxYVIM7qehy1HOIP7JdcnJMKeNCXJcVR0Nhi3v0Tj_2HyqO/s1600/20141113_083203.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WVbKEQ3iWhI/VGYSxE8PqvI/AAAAAAAAVgI/kCFvop8epYw/s1600/20141113_082843.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WVbKEQ3iWhI/VGYSxE8PqvI/AAAAAAAAVgI/kCFvop8epYw/s1600/20141113_082843.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCKceCDqE9kd74OuLgyBLshd0UuMDuOk3zaa-3XZckXIykkqEXYnTlPp12IGL_zWHDqneXxYjpHy83OqmCNHM7ahfBLjwEu_gm7Z1ZkjdCkz6nMUIv2838s2FNT5wFIQ2S6DvwsON7KNwC/s1600/20141113_082909.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCKceCDqE9kd74OuLgyBLshd0UuMDuOk3zaa-3XZckXIykkqEXYnTlPp12IGL_zWHDqneXxYjpHy83OqmCNHM7ahfBLjwEu_gm7Z1ZkjdCkz6nMUIv2838s2FNT5wFIQ2S6DvwsON7KNwC/s1600/20141113_082909.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Back to the car ending a long day in the coldest day I'd been out in for awhile though accomplished to add 3 more peaks and 13+ miles to my annual totals (36 total and over 180 miles). Knocking these off marks 31 of the 48 since last August, not the numbers I'd gotten used to but with recovery, new ownership for my employment and lots of projects, motorcycle riding and other interests I'll take it.<br />
<br />
Thanks for reading<br />
<br />Scotthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13436440799835611081noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3091682651320741192.post-79261954400166684222014-11-02T11:53:00.000-05:002014-11-03T11:57:23.433-05:00Mt. Whiteface and Passaconaway<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9dlKnJbXCEs/VFeg7PkhGbI/AAAAAAAAVNw/KyRU-b4mCto/s1600/20141101_133026-HALLOWEEN.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9dlKnJbXCEs/VFeg7PkhGbI/AAAAAAAAVNw/KyRU-b4mCto/s1600/20141101_133026-HALLOWEEN.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCezKTfKzEmSAwNGFbvTnA-k_0iS0hPrd4bYreie8AQ2qMJFe5bhinDB4VcmN5SdyOZ3DoMDlVV1GWroMLiDnbHozdYHA2A20veYs4NkXjmWM0DE_AoJKIdMx7AlT2zkW2BlfQBVtE6i2j/s1600/20141101_132657.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCezKTfKzEmSAwNGFbvTnA-k_0iS0hPrd4bYreie8AQ2qMJFe5bhinDB4VcmN5SdyOZ3DoMDlVV1GWroMLiDnbHozdYHA2A20veYs4NkXjmWM0DE_AoJKIdMx7AlT2zkW2BlfQBVtE6i2j/s1600/20141101_132657.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
I debated on 2 different hikes, WTF (yes this is really what I think of them) or Whiteface & Passaconaway since I need both for not only November but also post Bio-Met. W & P were a closer drive and figured it would be great to add a red line along the way by taking the Tom Wiggins Trail. Temps were in the mid-30's when arriving at the Ferncroft lot shortly before 8a, gear change into boots and a last check to make sure I had appropriate winter gear and off I go.<br />
<br />
It's always a pleasant road walk to one of the most welcoming areas greeted by a wooden gate welcoming hikers with a beautiful view beyond of an old farmhouse and barn. Dicey Mills Trail was leave covered but pretty dry considering the amount of rain that had fallen over the week making good time to the junction of the Tom Wiggins Trail 1.6 miles away. I've always wanted to take this but just never seemed to be the right time, well hello time! It starts out with a water crossing that I could imagine would be damning to cross in the spring with winter's melt but today wasn't bad by going a few feet to the right and hopping easily. After this however it does start to ascend and is pretty relentless without switchbacks I might add, tiring and exhausted was how I would feel by the time I reached the Blueberry Ledges Trail. There are some nice step work along the way, large boulders in some spots and an overgrown section of branches towards the end of the trail.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-x2MBruxSDGQ4azLKQcFg15cQlmtw0AN3Hqj5YNRGWQcsBucfsH1TDZvPk0DFPEdXXLEHqbk4vytWRP1UhTAEojDySh9H1poOsCHkasRJWMgTLpMJ30OA9H1p_S_s9yJU-NeQTvPtZt2W/s1600/20141101_084450.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-x2MBruxSDGQ4azLKQcFg15cQlmtw0AN3Hqj5YNRGWQcsBucfsH1TDZvPk0DFPEdXXLEHqbk4vytWRP1UhTAEojDySh9H1poOsCHkasRJWMgTLpMJ30OA9H1p_S_s9yJU-NeQTvPtZt2W/s1600/20141101_084450.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-o8Hwsrxi9IM/VFeqgwdIuQI/AAAAAAAAVOU/3ysELA1Mz0k/s1600/20141101_090753.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-o8Hwsrxi9IM/VFeqgwdIuQI/AAAAAAAAVOU/3ysELA1Mz0k/s1600/20141101_090753.jpg" height="57" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgruhM7P-aOKXXeS6PUMj6WpG_YfhLj2FuYu9R6AyeO00Xz2QQEkPUNnNu88MUG0iQbqcNN0bAat3NmBU1efjp8PV_XoL1dj7nnv-Lw2YwFBPGeHpMH-Y3VpUxa4tEf4fZONcfQTsJk7KcA/s1600/20141101_091010.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgruhM7P-aOKXXeS6PUMj6WpG_YfhLj2FuYu9R6AyeO00Xz2QQEkPUNnNu88MUG0iQbqcNN0bAat3NmBU1efjp8PV_XoL1dj7nnv-Lw2YwFBPGeHpMH-Y3VpUxa4tEf4fZONcfQTsJk7KcA/s1600/20141101_091010.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-n33oielEIUk/VFeqkDmZycI/AAAAAAAAVOc/pPnqG2-vPkM/s1600/20141101_093227.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-n33oielEIUk/VFeqkDmZycI/AAAAAAAAVOc/pPnqG2-vPkM/s1600/20141101_093227.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
<br />
A short break to catch my breath and onwards for the last .6 to the summit, of course this also means that the fun was about to start too over the ledges. Caution had to be taken here due to some ice in spots but otherwise it was smooth and quick especially with the cloud cover and snow spitting for the past half hour or so. The outlook towards Squam Lake was not to be had today, thankfully I've been able to view it many times before. I wandered a bit off the right of the Rollins Trail where there are numerous campsite options then on my way to the wooded summit where I would find the 'Stick' in a tree with most of it's letter's worn off and a cairn that seems to grow by a stone or two each time I visit. Seems like a good place to grab a seat and replenish with a smoked turkey wrap, cheese & pepperoni while staying out of the winds that had been swirling most of the morning.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeWcsDsowun1W-8GDqxmJpdKJT3ALrKZyDF2QvJlKR4OxIu6NS5pn5sq-NzdKhIDzhcBxobYcvxkvAA50RDqWkxH7T1MHpBm0OWkMdQ2yRRrsV-WL76q62cgPWUKOwFIsRrHtsewu9hSGD/s1600/20141101_102811.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeWcsDsowun1W-8GDqxmJpdKJT3ALrKZyDF2QvJlKR4OxIu6NS5pn5sq-NzdKhIDzhcBxobYcvxkvAA50RDqWkxH7T1MHpBm0OWkMdQ2yRRrsV-WL76q62cgPWUKOwFIsRrHtsewu9hSGD/s1600/20141101_102811.jpg" height="58" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-N2mf4UTQvpM/VFesuDKaCjI/AAAAAAAAVPA/X00RIfUPI30/s1600/20141101_102918.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-N2mf4UTQvpM/VFesuDKaCjI/AAAAAAAAVPA/X00RIfUPI30/s1600/20141101_102918.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUN4yBam5ZD7U1nCiSBLy47xKqR7bmQORUrz8jXk1pqvWzzMa0eq2kS4xNt8BZiI2xub6ineBjT6LlYuJa_740pHooJk6z3QqksObakJR3yd8CBhUVzgjkGLBPTkore8kDZ60CodYmnqcV/s1600/20141101_104501.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUN4yBam5ZD7U1nCiSBLy47xKqR7bmQORUrz8jXk1pqvWzzMa0eq2kS4xNt8BZiI2xub6ineBjT6LlYuJa_740pHooJk6z3QqksObakJR3yd8CBhUVzgjkGLBPTkore8kDZ60CodYmnqcV/s1600/20141101_104501.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
The Rollins Trail always seems to be a mind numbing walk connecting these 2 4,000 foot summits but since I hadn't been here since Feb 2013 the wind damage in some areas kept my mind occupied. Muddy trails maybe a half mile or so before the Dicey Mills Trail but thankfully cold enough that I was able to stay on the top side of it. I felt pretty good reaching the junction, good balance of gear that I'd been adjusting all morning and nutrition so motoring onwards up towards the 2nd summit of the day. Passing the old Camp Rich area then to the fork where I continued to the left, a path I'd taken 5 times before. Snow was continuing to fall but it was changing a bit to a wet mixture meaning that upon my descent it would probably turn to rain by 3000 feet, something to ponder before reaching the summit. It was just how I'd remembered it going to both sides of the trail to make sure I touched them both grabbing a drink while contemplating which way I was going to head back to the car. My original plan was to take the Walden Trail over the Old Mast Rd down giving a 2nd red line for the day.... not knowing the trail involved and whether the wet leaves would put me in a situation that I may not have been prepared for physically I opted to head back the same way.<br />
<br />
Back at the Rollins/Dicey Mills Junction I saw my first hiker of the day, a gentleman who had started his journey to the summit of each 4000-footer this past December and today was almost his halfway point. He headed upwards while I readied myself for a quick but careful descent through the wet leaf covered trail, correctly predicting at 2800+/- feet the snow had turned to a light rain for the rest of the trip.<br />
<br />
I'm glad that I decided to head out early for day in the Whites, 2 more summits for various lists and a red line.Scotthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13436440799835611081noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3091682651320741192.post-17092966943934906192014-10-13T21:00:00.000-04:002014-10-14T12:19:17.855-04:00Peaked Hill Pond<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PhAMdKrYAzY/VD0r1a6sReI/AAAAAAAAUqE/4Tzd5KqsYeg/s1600/20141013_161226.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PhAMdKrYAzY/VD0r1a6sReI/AAAAAAAAUqE/4Tzd5KqsYeg/s1600/20141013_161226.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
After a morning in RMC territory and on our way back through civilization on I-93S GumbyHiker and I decided that we weren't quite ready to end the day stopping at Peaked Hill Pond in Thornton NH (Exit 29). <br />
<br />
Quite a few cars in the parking area with 4 people just getting back to them about 3:30p as boots were put back on and packs slung for the next 1.7 miles. What we didn't know was that the trail was actually an old road and very easy to get up to speed after the road washout to begin with. Gradual inclines were greatly appreciated since my legs were feeling it a bit from the extra strain descending Cooks Path earlier. Very little signage along the way but it was not needed other than the fork at the end leading to an open area with 2 fire pits and of course the normal debris that hadn't quite burned up yet, with easier access tends to bring in different crowds. <br />
<br />
This a beautiful area, relaxing with great views of Peaked Hill especially with fall foliage. 2 fisherman in a canoe can attest to that. <br />
<br />
Another red line with 3.4 miles added to the yearly total.Scotthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13436440799835611081noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3091682651320741192.post-45524953704488029052014-10-13T20:30:00.000-04:002014-10-14T12:10:39.209-04:00Columbus Day on Ice Gulch Path<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QU_vZred-SY/VD0rVlS3IWI/AAAAAAAAUo0/C-flKNe90RM/s1600/IMG_9643.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QU_vZred-SY/VD0rVlS3IWI/AAAAAAAAUo0/C-flKNe90RM/s1600/IMG_9643.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qaFLtANVlqo/VD0rky3DDQI/AAAAAAAAUpY/IHg-byIPj3M/s1600/IMG_9553.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qaFLtANVlqo/VD0rky3DDQI/AAAAAAAAUpY/IHg-byIPj3M/s1600/IMG_9553.jpg" height="239" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Today's trip was to explore an area that I'd not been in before and of course to add another trail on the <a href="http://www.trishalexsage.com/p/the-terrifying-twenty-five.html" target="_blank">Terrifying Twenty-Five</a> list, Ice Gulch Path. I was joined by my brother, GumbyHiker, who had this in his sights as well arriving at the trailhead off of Randolph Hill Rd at about 8a, parking across the street as requested by the sign. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Beautiful barn off the right as we walk beside it disappearing into woods for the next would be 5 hours and 6.6 miles of beautiful scenery, a waterfall, rock climbing, cave exploring and walking through what felt like being in a bowl with 50 +/- foot ravine walls. The trail was easy to follow with blazes a plenty along the way making what felt like pretty good time at a relaxed pace reaching the Marked Birch tree ( I have no idea why it is called that but will have to find out) we had a choice of continuing on directly to Ice Gulch or a detour down to Peboamauk Falls which would be quite steep but quick descent over leave covered rocks then after the falls the once again steep ascent to meet back up with the trail. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7jDetDlciKY/VD0tMhh23GI/AAAAAAAAUvM/a2UKXRZkpA0/s1600/20141013_092610.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7jDetDlciKY/VD0tMhh23GI/AAAAAAAAUvM/a2UKXRZkpA0/s1600/20141013_092610.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEievPXoE-pYvkwqWpiq2iqLY77uzJl5UnyY0247FhAl5x-MQA-rEoYvMQ1rXGI0ouU-KqonxhMenXpRsnaTKxyo7xLZjqmDfoETRjd03dSC0MWYr2HbunI8dTEf5IGiR9dOnOy6x1WGuTHG/s1600/20141013_090837.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEievPXoE-pYvkwqWpiq2iqLY77uzJl5UnyY0247FhAl5x-MQA-rEoYvMQ1rXGI0ouU-KqonxhMenXpRsnaTKxyo7xLZjqmDfoETRjd03dSC0MWYr2HbunI8dTEf5IGiR9dOnOy6x1WGuTHG/s1600/20141013_090837.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HKa4vo24BL8/VD0tUe-VtpI/AAAAAAAAUv4/ZX9n7mUv-W0/s1600/20141013_090053.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HKa4vo24BL8/VD0tUe-VtpI/AAAAAAAAUv4/ZX9n7mUv-W0/s1600/20141013_090053.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Shortly after this is when the real fun starts, into the talus fields where we would take a snack break, dawn the shades (it got quite bright out once we left the shaded area) and me I was wishing greatly that the button hadn't released from my convertible pants earlier and switched to a much warmer pair of EMS ENDO pants though they were rolled up passed the knees which I have to tell you is NOT a fashion statement! Shortly after our break the temps dropped while climbing up and over rocks, sometimes clowning around and exploring through caves or areas we could slide through (I thought I could fit anyways). Various types of lichen taking over the left side, thoughts of the Greenleaf trail and its blanket in a few areas were compared. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1quuMsH2ScZyNsg7yxke2W1asw14gTstkZjNICysrm0kVQY9yYdtU4llQtLpZcTjMJCLPRbarxouDA1ciG9Kkz6GXG29wEvLRIAiZI4Qfwm9GJcWyTOfxtILcLW3SOKXDcvhWtNseQVcH/s1600/20141013_093503-EFFECTS.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1quuMsH2ScZyNsg7yxke2W1asw14gTstkZjNICysrm0kVQY9yYdtU4llQtLpZcTjMJCLPRbarxouDA1ciG9Kkz6GXG29wEvLRIAiZI4Qfwm9GJcWyTOfxtILcLW3SOKXDcvhWtNseQVcH/s1600/20141013_093503-EFFECTS.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmYz2gzpCWviWSex1_AdIBoffXbHSaEjRtEmxBLst1rydk_3_4se9dhql4VCVpRpN0QmUOWb4rqIlXwhB5wmBCHh6mWW4ZotiR-Oy2Or64aRSKksJBVMSx_eiOG4IigfraeweRXsfMR5Yx/s1600/20141013_101836.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmYz2gzpCWviWSex1_AdIBoffXbHSaEjRtEmxBLst1rydk_3_4se9dhql4VCVpRpN0QmUOWb4rqIlXwhB5wmBCHh6mWW4ZotiR-Oy2Or64aRSKksJBVMSx_eiOG4IigfraeweRXsfMR5Yx/s1600/20141013_101836.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs_efuqHddzpwUnf5KobPGEHlMLTlDG907CP3e7IRDJsN_-_rZNfM0jH1ay2qhmi6ZsgtwdYbCNlE7zg-LoDXLyWoMrlZ3z49EgW5pzYo13qqTwONbCeMLYV997w_8ED0d93MnpVpj-Joq/s1600/IMG_3497.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs_efuqHddzpwUnf5KobPGEHlMLTlDG907CP3e7IRDJsN_-_rZNfM0jH1ay2qhmi6ZsgtwdYbCNlE7zg-LoDXLyWoMrlZ3z49EgW5pzYo13qqTwONbCeMLYV997w_8ED0d93MnpVpj-Joq/s1600/IMG_3497.jpg" height="239" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I could see why the guide book states that you can not adhere to the normal hiking times formula for this area. It takes time to navigate safely through and to be honest I would not be rushing through this morning's trek, it was beautiful and way too much fun! Ahead as you survey the treeline it looked like it was ending and thankfully I was wrong, a bowl type of area with large rock walls on both sides peering through the trees was simply amazing, photos of this do not give any justice at all but I've added them. To get the real feeling you'll have to venture out for yourselves.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy_NN6cIAo02cO7B41s4AR7ht8zvXiLmRUjfpvX168haDm83mTMhH3G1Jm-qxDX0mnLpLfCguhEBEOaI0SpQewKcHVg9wfiMz_FqyNrdccNWZ3SEipFc0BQt4HUCuo4bvowMNk_6cqt7dW/s1600/20141013_111000.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy_NN6cIAo02cO7B41s4AR7ht8zvXiLmRUjfpvX168haDm83mTMhH3G1Jm-qxDX0mnLpLfCguhEBEOaI0SpQewKcHVg9wfiMz_FqyNrdccNWZ3SEipFc0BQt4HUCuo4bvowMNk_6cqt7dW/s1600/20141013_111000.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0Vg8lutHoSQ/VD0sGUWdRnI/AAAAAAAAUrM/MYIrbQbDJDE/s1600/20141013_105029.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0Vg8lutHoSQ/VD0sGUWdRnI/AAAAAAAAUrM/MYIrbQbDJDE/s1600/20141013_105029.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7Lmf4IBDyJlhYVX3sD6VCExAO6ZX3qXNeYEw0a_G2d32dwNYJmZ1bQhixSO85C7oYcLHW7_PZtlJ_BGW0BmY-lSmjiGtoNbYGtgrmMCH93iScrX4G77ah9awhbcmcBjKezBzyiMR58UGA/s1600/20141013_103710.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7Lmf4IBDyJlhYVX3sD6VCExAO6ZX3qXNeYEw0a_G2d32dwNYJmZ1bQhixSO85C7oYcLHW7_PZtlJ_BGW0BmY-lSmjiGtoNbYGtgrmMCH93iScrX4G77ah9awhbcmcBjKezBzyiMR58UGA/s1600/20141013_103710.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The fun ceased when we reached the junction of Cook Path but really couldn't stop smiling the rest of the way down over the next 2.5 miles. From here it was a leave covered trail hiding the rocks below, occasional ankle rolls, newly made bog bridges and occasional logging road crossings. Boothman Springs was a pleasant surprise with a small camping area, large fire pit (complete with grill) and a moss covered wood trough allowing water down the stream. Mental note that this could be a great place to just get away for an evening in the future. After this the Cutoff trail lead us directly to the back of someone's property and to Randolph Hill Rd maybe 1/4 mile from where we had started.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
As always a day on the trails with GumbyHiker was incredibly fun, thank you for a great day in the Whites!</div>
<br />
Scotthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13436440799835611081noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3091682651320741192.post-244004896733361542014-09-20T22:00:00.000-04:002014-09-22T12:11:58.622-04:00Georgiana and Harvard Falls<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5RGN3SGepLc/VCBCyd7IGfI/AAAAAAAAUVc/Wql5hMg1rks/s1600/20140920_143725.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5RGN3SGepLc/VCBCyd7IGfI/AAAAAAAAUVc/Wql5hMg1rks/s1600/20140920_143725.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_hWWpdoiPA2I8WSSM32NUxXLQwJEoPh2_GYuM3XNlVf3aKu4eiYdU1C0B0wgacL3C_VCvAcFt3q3UJoIhNrpEq09HvAiuNbuD6avPG5WGkxFGPonQeHphxGvdmOkfo_ZxMZaWD3gz4aEI/s1600/20140920_145247.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_hWWpdoiPA2I8WSSM32NUxXLQwJEoPh2_GYuM3XNlVf3aKu4eiYdU1C0B0wgacL3C_VCvAcFt3q3UJoIhNrpEq09HvAiuNbuD6avPG5WGkxFGPonQeHphxGvdmOkfo_ZxMZaWD3gz4aEI/s1600/20140920_145247.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
After hiking Mt. Carrigain this morning and wanted to make the trip a little longer I remembered a friend of mine hiking the Georgiana Falls trail often and wanted to explore a bit before heading home. <br />
<br />
Taking the Flume Visitors Center Exit I drove towards Woodstock, to my surprise there were cars parked everywhere for numerous events including the Highland Games. I wasn't sure where I was headed to reach the trail / parking area and with the extra traffic I actually ended up driving right by the road. Switched into the trail sneakers to reduce the weight on my legs and threw a hoodie on figuring it was still brisk out and didn't want to reach into my back for a T3 layer that would make me roast. <br />
<br />
Walked under an overpass and onto a wide path until the trail heads left towards the river and narrows down to a path. Lots of leaves and with the dampness took my time and enjoyed the cool down walk into the woods for the next hour or so. Reaching the lower falls took no time at all with a low amount of water flowing but imagined what it would be like in the spring. Heading onwards the upper falls then to Harvard Falls/Cascades the views were great including a spectacular view towards the Franconia Ridge, one of my favorite hiking ridges.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv-8hJnDB9eiE9KFjHC9pjm5Tf5NGyPOki0mCrEZiM3LDBw2rO4dtxpTmV4KCj1PIwygwcbWvy-CyiavqRdPf-pagdpjFZQKDt3CeXxcpjUteBqCkX6ShCXTAZN8Uye-HP_pV-emmGBlSb/s1600/20140920_152346.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv-8hJnDB9eiE9KFjHC9pjm5Tf5NGyPOki0mCrEZiM3LDBw2rO4dtxpTmV4KCj1PIwygwcbWvy-CyiavqRdPf-pagdpjFZQKDt3CeXxcpjUteBqCkX6ShCXTAZN8Uye-HP_pV-emmGBlSb/s1600/20140920_152346.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CLorLOC7rPw/VCBC7eP57BI/AAAAAAAAUVw/T6SupIEZbYE/s1600/20140920_153157.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CLorLOC7rPw/VCBC7eP57BI/AAAAAAAAUVw/T6SupIEZbYE/s1600/20140920_153157.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Sitting for a few minutes to rest and take in the first views of the day my body was definitely telling me that it was done for the day and take care heading back to the car. It didn't take long but this is definitely an area I'll be returning to in the spring. A link below to find this hidden gem for those interested in visiting.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.nhvacationhome.net/images/Georgiana_Palls.pdf" target="_blank">Trail Map</a>Scotthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13436440799835611081noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3091682651320741192.post-54726601507192156832014-09-20T21:00:00.000-04:002014-09-22T10:46:13.658-04:00Mt. Carrigain<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xMhCOoBG-DQ/VCAkakLXaKI/AAAAAAAAUS0/mMYsM51PA9E/s1600/20140920_104513.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xMhCOoBG-DQ/VCAkakLXaKI/AAAAAAAAUS0/mMYsM51PA9E/s1600/20140920_104513.jpg" height="110" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Lately I've had the best intentions when leaving on early Saturday mornings to head towards the further away peaks like Carrigain, Cabot, Moriah, Carters and Wildcats but something takes over with the length of the drive and select a closer hike. I know eventually this will leave me with nothing close and have to make that drive, today was different. It had been quite awhile since I'd visited Mt. Carrigain, January 17, 2013 to be exact, 20 months but seems like it has been forever.<br />
<br />
Arriving at Sawyer Pond parking lot there were few cars in the lot, maybe 4 or 5, while at first I put my trail sneakers on then as I pondered a few moments at my choice and swapped them to Asolo Boots. I didn't want to be in a position in wet weather that second guessing my footwear on slippery rocks and roots, possibly resulting with an injury. 7:50a I locked the car and headed towards the beginning of the re-routed Signal Ridge Trail. I had been on this section a few times before but something felt different today, a sluggish feeling had overcome that was unexpected. Normally I don't say anything about work however the last couple of weeks have been full of extreme highs and lows with this past week hitting such an aggravation level that I was certain aggression would be taken out on trail. Relatively flat trails with some wet areas on either side were comforting and kept my eyes open throughout in hopes of catching wildlife of some sort, still though the "off" or "where's that fire I had all week" persisted. <br />
<br />
The river crossing came and went as did the junction to remain on Signal Ridge or veer right onto Carrigain Notch Trail towards Shoal Pond, I stayed the course towards what I knew would be an obscured fire tower view. Rounding the first corner of the incline I knew from here it was put up or shut up, to me this meant either carry the baggage the entire way letting it eat away at me all day OR let it go, it is not here with you and there is nothing you can do about it from here. I believe this had to be my turning point increasing the pace picking them and putting them down one after another stopping for a few breaks including with an elder gentleman that explained that his legs didn't quite work the same way they used to. I chatted for a couple of minutes with him of his journeys then on my way feeling a bit rested and clear head. Switchback after switchback passed, no views of the Mt. Anderson or Lowell off to the right just up through the foggy damp trail (thanking myself for selecting my boots) and even built a small cairn when there was an over abundance of rocks.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSfMDLbHgas6EAoR0G76XyBfk4ZQDRZQmiM9RE3pmGUJElgsv6258tgPGIWK8cLCWcZf55OUgc7obesL0KSM81triNRtKl-TgzUx4IXfPRtlF__pNqGg7u2x6jvdIUbxbqLwQxIJzJtbiW/s1600/20140920_095925.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSfMDLbHgas6EAoR0G76XyBfk4ZQDRZQmiM9RE3pmGUJElgsv6258tgPGIWK8cLCWcZf55OUgc7obesL0KSM81triNRtKl-TgzUx4IXfPRtlF__pNqGg7u2x6jvdIUbxbqLwQxIJzJtbiW/s1600/20140920_095925.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
Just below Signal Ridge, yes you can tell you're getting close by the distance between switchbacks, a trio that had spent the evening near the summit were descending and in great spirits. As I stepped out onto Signal Ridge there was absolutely nothing to see or pause for, normally a definite spot to stop and enjoy the beauty around but not today. Pushing on past the old well noticing that the top hatch was missing I stopped for a moment to investigate finding that it was not missing it was at the bottom of the well. Having a rope with me to possibly fish it back up to it's rightful place I found I did not have a hook of sorts to complete the task, something to remember for my next trip up if it is still this way. The final ascent to the fire tower, water blown around off the branches with the increasing winds but to no avail this wouldn't make me stop for rain gear at this point. Past the unofficial camping area I noticed that the ancient metal bucket was no longer on it's branch which brought an emotion of sadness knowing who found and put that artifact there. Fire Tower protecting the lonely USGS marker, dashing underneath putting a full hand down at 10:42am! <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-X56NnwDPhKo/VCAqtLKpfxI/AAAAAAAAUT4/HOeMvh1Elw4/s1600/20140920_104209.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-X56NnwDPhKo/VCAqtLKpfxI/AAAAAAAAUT4/HOeMvh1Elw4/s1600/20140920_104209.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-Xn1KukwfCRBthnnqAunzeOtRRTsvKzN1JHLc47RlYLMX_XPr0U0-qLw5QDxfXU6cs0l6yREDchJraH94y_ImS6GjHIVCGBh0jE5ZPrdA22rWnLsinD1FUu3TSPCaYo-8JKVLWTJ017XY/s1600/20140920_104234.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-Xn1KukwfCRBthnnqAunzeOtRRTsvKzN1JHLc47RlYLMX_XPr0U0-qLw5QDxfXU6cs0l6yREDchJraH94y_ImS6GjHIVCGBh0jE5ZPrdA22rWnLsinD1FUu3TSPCaYo-8JKVLWTJ017XY/s1600/20140920_104234.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
I didn't stay at the top of the Fire Tower for long with the winds, clouds and basically nothing to look at which normally I'd find myself lounging for a good half hour or more but not today. Coming back down the steps of the tower care was to be taken especially after the grate at the top of the stairs was loose, getting back down to the camp sites for my first snack of the day. It is here where I gloated quietly of the time it had taken to reach the summit, not so much for the mileage alone but the elevation gain involved, 2 hours 52 minutes! A protein bar and drink while the next couple of hikers arrived with a happy pup, I warned of the top grate and then onto a careful descent using poles for the first time on the day. <br />
<br />
Many hikers on their way up while I head back to parking lot, stopping often to let others not break their momentum on an incline. A few stop to chat a minute or so with a group of young hikers asking how far to the summit where I mentioned it was approximately a mile and informed them that they should be there within 45 min to an hour. One young woman responded that we should be able to do a mile in 30 minutes, looked at my watch where the altimeter reading reading was 3745ft but they knew better than I. I smiled mentioning that I was sure they knew better and at their ages should have no problem attaining the goal... funny ending note was one of the group asked my age then didn't believe I was over 20 years her senior :) That is a common occurrence these days when it comes to age and to me it really is a number just like the amount of peaks that are climbed and miles hiked. <br />
<br />
Reaching the junction again I knew that my time on trail would soon come to a close but still maintained a good pace stopping a few times along the way to talk with fellow hikers. A group of 3 that were heading into the Desolation/Shoal Pond area for a night of camping asking about campsites. This brought back memories to a past Memorial Day Weekend backpacking trip with Gumby Hiker as I told them about the site we had stayed at but hadn't been out there since Hurricane Irene and couldn't guarantee that they still existed. Viewing windshields and exterior parts of vehicles through the trees was a bittersweet feeling but reaching my car at 1:14p giving my total on the day to 5 hours and 24 minutes.<br />
<br />
Reflecting upon the last handful of hikes a trend seems to be that I've gotten stronger, faster than I believe I've ever been. It has been just shy of 13 months of working through knee replacement, though there is some internal discomfort the following day or two it is nothing compared to what I once endured. The next couple of weekends are full with other activities but I'm looking forward to the next trip whether it be above 4,000 feet or not.<br />
<br />
Thanks for reading<br />
<br />
<br />Scotthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13436440799835611081noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3091682651320741192.post-77208346936566171992014-09-13T18:30:00.000-04:002014-09-15T11:13:17.136-04:00North and Middle Tripyramids<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-E4mPRouhp2M/VBb0CiKcgLI/AAAAAAAAUHU/916mOPv2huI/s1600/20140913_131008.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-E4mPRouhp2M/VBb0CiKcgLI/AAAAAAAAUHU/916mOPv2huI/s1600/20140913_131008.jpg" height="120" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
A crisp fall morning indeed as I opened the door at Sabbaday Falls off the Kangamangus Highway at 7:35am, for the first time of the year I was happy that I had threw the legs to my pants in the duffel bag. This however was also the day that even though there was a long sleeve layer in my pack I was about to put it on with no additional warmer layer for later in the day, rookie mistake at best. Thankfully I don't get cold often and knew once I started moving everything would warm up and if necessary the rain gear was in the pack (mental note to self - add warm layer for the next hike).<br />
<br />
First time on this trail and the falls were spectacular having them all to myself however I would have to take in the views on the descent because being late to the trail head meant that ground had to be covered quickly to catch up with the group I'd be hiking with today. Terrain was accommodating with my goal as well as the music mix I had playing in 1 ear while taking in some of the damage and debris that has been left along the river. There are a couple of river crossings that I did need to halt for a moment to make sure I verified which way the trail went but otherwise it is very well marked with yellow blazes. To my surprise I did find a campfire pit that I swore was in the middle of the trail and had been used recently and after scanning the area I find a tent off to the left side. <br />
<br />
A short while after I saw a few hikers taking a break, not believing that I had just caught up with GumbyHiker, Melissa, Kristy and Bill within 2.5 miles! After catching up for a few minutes off we went towards the Junction where the real decision starts... right or left :) Though the incline was a little steep it didn't seem to affect anyone with good foot holds, pretty dry rocks and things to hold on to. I did have some fun paying attention to the elevation gains on my Sunnto Core watch as we climbed, pretty accurate today even with the barometer readings (I find that if the barometric pressure rises the altimeter is skewed). The junction appears in no time and I believe packs were off in a flash most to grab a warm layer with the wind picking up in the raw weather. <br />
<br />
Off to North Tripyramid we went 0.5 miles away, 3 trail running to the summit while Bill and I brought up the slower side of the group (I don't/can't run these days) reaching the summit not long after at 10:10a. We had the summit to ourselves for a few minutes when a couple of hikers were ascending the peak for the first time as we were on our way back to the junction for a quick snack break leaving our packs once again for the 0.3 mile jaunt to Middle Tripyramid arriving at 10:40a. Views were semi open as we played the "which peak is that?" game towards Mt. Chocorua, Passaconaway and Whiteface. <i><u><b>This was also Kristy's 43rd 4,000 footer, Congrats to Kristy! </b></u></i><br />
<br />
A quick retreat to our awaiting packs and back down the way we came seemed to take no time at all to descend the steeper sections placing feet carefully as to not slip. Looking for a herd path towards the Fool Killer off the left but nothing looked to obvious, more research indeed before heading out that direction. We did see a USFS Ranger along the way and I'll be damn both Gumby and I recognized her from a trip 2 years ago on the Kate Sleeper trail as we chatted a few minutes and off we go once again. Smooth sailing as the terrain has a gentle downward slope again watching the damage from Hurricane Irene, wider river beds with erosion eating away at the embankments. River/Stream crossings were easily rock hopped until the 2nd to last one when a member of the group lost their footing and into the drink for a brisk moment or two, thankfully all was laughed off and more importantly no injuries. The last crossing another member of the group's feet found their way in as well, we assume to make sure that there wasn't only one person on the day with wet feet :).<br />
<br />
Great day to be in the Whites and the cooler temperatures were welcome after a pretty warm summer on the trails. For me it was my first visit back since January 2013 and 6th visit overall to the Tripyramid peaks. Big thanks to all for inviting me to join in on your day's hike and look forward to October 25th or 26th for another day on the trails. <br />
<br />
<br />Scotthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13436440799835611081noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3091682651320741192.post-52059907170986066432014-08-31T00:00:00.000-04:002014-09-02T15:33:36.170-04:00Owl's Head<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6WIOYV2wTig/VAYPM_DjrWI/AAAAAAAARDQ/A0-DgzR-Y9g/s1600/20140830_103925.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6WIOYV2wTig/VAYPM_DjrWI/AAAAAAAARDQ/A0-DgzR-Y9g/s1600/20140830_103925.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Lots of bouncing around for ideas before deciding upon Owl's Head, mainly because it was a closer drive than the Carter's or Zealand and I'd rather use that time for being on trail. It didn't hurt that Owl's Head, where it's not at the top of my desirable locations to visit, was still needed for many lists most importantly Post Bio-Met (knee replacement). Lincoln Woods parking lot was pretty full when I arrived at 7:45am but was able to easily find a spot in the outer corners with some shade, changed footwear and secured belongings on my way past the Ranger's station at 8a sharp.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3cIK8dF0u-iNATmtUVOVV67rjQxZWyz8LdzoRME3kUJqY77RTWP3cmHIJEhz-IQKr2cawXoUmqCHHKleaYOnrwHnJY3kCidF0ICO12iIl9u-nN0P_KYvhqkLfKNKrJo-TrQxl4Z6_iYjJ/s1600/20140830_074853.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3cIK8dF0u-iNATmtUVOVV67rjQxZWyz8LdzoRME3kUJqY77RTWP3cmHIJEhz-IQKr2cawXoUmqCHHKleaYOnrwHnJY3kCidF0ICO12iIl9u-nN0P_KYvhqkLfKNKrJo-TrQxl4Z6_iYjJ/s1600/20140830_074853.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wThBGbP4-_4/VAYPBiCqlPI/AAAAAAAARCw/J9d7Trtjw_E/s1600/20140830_080800.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wThBGbP4-_4/VAYPBiCqlPI/AAAAAAAARCw/J9d7Trtjw_E/s1600/20140830_080800.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
It appeared that Lincoln Woods would be all mine with this start time and it was that way for awhile until I was passed by a trail runner just after the Osseo Trail Junction. Pace didn't seem to be difficult to maintain reaching the Wilderness Boundary at 8:39a, this seemed a bit fast for my normal but I was feeling really good and went with it as I rounded my way left to the Franconia Brook Trail. Here a small incline to begin then levels out again minus railroad ties through a decent corridor passing by swampy areas quietly for the possibility of wildlife sightings other than a few frogs. It was here that I passed a few campers on their way out from 13 Falls before I reached Lincoln Brook Junction at 9:09a but couldn't resist continuing on instead of taking a break, I felt great and didn't want to break stride. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-keRC3bCLGZk/VAYPHQHqWlI/AAAAAAAARDA/XHxvmxcDka8/s1600/20140830_094323.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-keRC3bCLGZk/VAYPHQHqWlI/AAAAAAAARDA/XHxvmxcDka8/s1600/20140830_094323.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9tKaeC7xyPqeIovpHW8WMmhh0UQFgEpgQCByyFdKtmhbA2dnApjGgriqjdGylV79TZBxDtqUgWuQqEMRYWoWMgYb9URXE_Qr647QsIcKbrw-VAsRlJd_6R_7oc1a5tyYu-tjCLf71FSiq/s1600/20140830_094339.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9tKaeC7xyPqeIovpHW8WMmhh0UQFgEpgQCByyFdKtmhbA2dnApjGgriqjdGylV79TZBxDtqUgWuQqEMRYWoWMgYb9URXE_Qr647QsIcKbrw-VAsRlJd_6R_7oc1a5tyYu-tjCLf71FSiq/s1600/20140830_094339.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
River crossing was kind of interesting, I'd heard about it but had always taken the Black Pond Bushwhack, easily crossed but the other side I was a little confused and took a look around. There were pink ribbons in the tree branches before I crossed so I headed down stream a little but didn't look right, turned around and found a narrow section of trail going up and around a rock to the left side of it then widening bringing a sigh of relief. Onwards I go not running into anyone until reaching the beginning of the Slide at 10:21am where I notice many familiar faces! Hiker Ed, Charlie and Nancy, Wolfgang, Helen and Paul getting their rest before tackling the next 1.1 miles of what I remember now as torture similar to ascending S. Twin from the Galehead Hut. I hadn't gone up this direction since July 2010 opting normally for winter travel when the Brutus is a highway, easy to follow. After a bit of rest and chatting with the group finding that between the 7 of us there were 4 new knees within the last 2 years and here we were back out doing what we find second nature. <br />
<br />
The ascent was brutal to me, my momentum was long gone with constant stops every 100 to 150 feet whether I needed it or not. I find it is easier to recover quickly this way instead of teetering on the brink of exhaustion, of course the skies were beautifully blue with clouds swirling in/out on/out of Franconia Ridge including the Lincoln Slide. Eventually passing by the Brutus Rock I noticed the evidence of a well traveled trail wondering if it went the entire distance to Lincoln Brook and that I'd be venturing that way instead of down the slide. The old summit area was a welcoming sight as I quickly scurried to the summit cairn further on, I looked for the 'stick' located somewhere nearby in the trees but none to be found at 11:34am. The quick math in my head told me that I had just gone slightly over 9.1 miles in 3 hours and 34 minutes... a 2.55MPH AVG for the morning including almost 1500 feet of elevation between the bottom of the slide and the summit! I was pretty impressed with myself I must admit :)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJKRCb6Q0G4OZPtrIZn4boBZW3o1XJ2X_SPwcvXYKjDk_E1Vi_OkXbBU5ufMOe6BUcnRsf1MAa-KZ2t-bTaStiv-LSofA3K7fGKGf743ckSOL2NcmSDXFHQktt3P3Xkb1_ove6IywZwRiB/s1600/20140830_103933.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJKRCb6Q0G4OZPtrIZn4boBZW3o1XJ2X_SPwcvXYKjDk_E1Vi_OkXbBU5ufMOe6BUcnRsf1MAa-KZ2t-bTaStiv-LSofA3K7fGKGf743ckSOL2NcmSDXFHQktt3P3Xkb1_ove6IywZwRiB/s1600/20140830_103933.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0czf8SJY84ZbgkMrtogONN2p_ZrWMpEIW0EMiPStj0nydgD5vjg83D997OuaTdA9HW6wFDDNLgfVQj7DihWiIQPQdeqvEwGqJ87T1klRPkcnHRMKaJVC-A0iTBKNqy8XwOexx4dz56daJ/s1600/20140830_114503.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0czf8SJY84ZbgkMrtogONN2p_ZrWMpEIW0EMiPStj0nydgD5vjg83D997OuaTdA9HW6wFDDNLgfVQj7DihWiIQPQdeqvEwGqJ87T1klRPkcnHRMKaJVC-A0iTBKNqy8XwOexx4dz56daJ/s1600/20140830_114503.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6S4eoebOADo/VAYPQOLfldI/AAAAAAAARDg/nH5SUsqQMO8/s1600/20140830_114556.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6S4eoebOADo/VAYPQOLfldI/AAAAAAAARDg/nH5SUsqQMO8/s1600/20140830_114556.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
I spent quite a bit of time at the summit with familiar faces at the summit not just from the group of Grid Finishers from the bottom of the slide but also Tim Lucia and his friend Scott among many others. We had 11 at the summit at one time and it could have been more with arrivals and departures during that time, it was nice to meet everyone and of course Tim who I've run into a few times this year (BTW Tim your pup's trick was a first for me).<br />
<br />
As the group got their gear together I decided that break neck speed was not what I was looking for on the way out and asked if they minded a tag-along for the rest of the day. Great conversations as we descended a well beaten herd path, easy to follow the entire way back to just before the river where after crossing was a good spot as any to grab a drink and rest the legs before continuing on. I had mentioned that I had never taken the Fisherman's Bushwhack before to Franconia Falls earlier at the summit and wouldn't you know if after our next break at the last river crossing this is the way we were headed. <br />
<br />
This is pretty well grown over and a little difficult to follow, losing our way on numerous occasions but not by far. That is one of the great things about being in a group with such experience and having been in these areas over the years on prior hikes, making it easier to identify familiar places. Along the river beds large trees lodged as kindling that have been hurled down the river presumably from Hurricane Irene, this is difficult to say firsthand but the appearance is hard to dispute. Popping out just above Franconia Falls to a sign facing the way we had just traveled brought a chuckle.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-r230dmKWWCw/VAYQC_fizkI/AAAAAAAARDw/nonXDJqaTqg/s1600/20140830_164505.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-r230dmKWWCw/VAYQC_fizkI/AAAAAAAARDw/nonXDJqaTqg/s1600/20140830_164505.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
From here it was a short walk back to the Wilderness Boundary, quick break at the wall then back towards the parking lot calling it a day. By now my feet were extremely sore but the rest felt like it had a couple more miles left, thankfully the day was over, feeling accomplished for my sustained fast pace to the summit and hiking back with such great people. Thank you Ed for the post hike beverage, it made the day perfect!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLL-B5hqAAPbjXK2u9jMxw6CfAoOplO1jXUPQq8aghhZJtsgiH-zZBKVX5SEK6u62X_OqNVuFSZ_GmVRiG_z9fchWYXGiE6lReOAMxZBC1h2spnraV68cZy_4WYHPOTOQCV2LZqFKd7koR/s1600/20140830_182335.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLL-B5hqAAPbjXK2u9jMxw6CfAoOplO1jXUPQq8aghhZJtsgiH-zZBKVX5SEK6u62X_OqNVuFSZ_GmVRiG_z9fchWYXGiE6lReOAMxZBC1h2spnraV68cZy_4WYHPOTOQCV2LZqFKd7koR/s1600/20140830_182335.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
Next Hike... Flags on the 48 September 13, 2014. Destination is still up in the air but I'd like to make it memorable one. Suggestions?<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Scotthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13436440799835611081noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3091682651320741192.post-70663118168742893282014-08-18T12:29:00.000-04:002014-08-29T13:30:20.837-04:00East Pond LoopOriginal plans for Sunday was to head over to Mt. Chocorua, a peak neither Gumby Hiker nor I have yet to set foot on and collect a few red lines. Unfortunately with the weather looking like lots of clouds and rain we decided upon the East Pond Loop off of Tripoli Rd instead.<br />
<br />
After maneuvering through Tripoli Rd with it's red painted rocks that lay above the rest of the dirt road and numbers of campsite to the East Pond Trailhead, imagine our surprise that we had the entire lot to ourselves. Footwear switch and lighten the load from a few items in the pack since we were not going that far walking through a corridor to the trail junction, deciding clockwise towards Little East Pond first.<br />
<br />
As we hiked along we were pretty impressed how well the trail had been maintained even with the rain that had fallen recently. Noticing the amount of down trees (of which we had now idea what would be coming later on) and where it looked like access roads grown over it was a pleasant walk in the woods towards our first destination of the day arriving pretty quickly.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Tt0EIU6srWY/VAB_TcvYIdI/AAAAAAAAQ34/SWCRNIZcHrg/s1600/20140817_093343.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Tt0EIU6srWY/VAB_TcvYIdI/AAAAAAAAQ34/SWCRNIZcHrg/s1600/20140817_093343.jpg" height="95" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-15pzGGWvAUY/VAB_V1pjskI/AAAAAAAAQ4A/PLlPEWotgdQ/s1600/20140817_093700.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-15pzGGWvAUY/VAB_V1pjskI/AAAAAAAAQ4A/PLlPEWotgdQ/s1600/20140817_093700.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
The next mile and half to East Pond gave the appearance that it is prone to high winds with trees and branches down everywhere on both sides of the trail. Even more interesting was that <br />all of this kindling was not on the trail with very few of the larger trees cut for easy access. We quieted our conversation in many spots along the way being prime moose grazing quarters but none were to be seen today. A light drizzle of rain falling through the tree cover was hardly noticed until we came out to East Pond itself but didn't stop us from exploring what looks like a pretty nice campsite. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy7ayQIlZt51RF05eqmHOA-lmffuWR29oi_jydyK5MVb3JtluovQ5AARbCIR5tuOyV8e89e8t6HMb_xRDnj5G-VbGFlM9aYQNhODQqx6mw1XrY3QtI7RfnJgMiFyJoDWmKk0F0UQo7IjWW/s1600/20140817_101242.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy7ayQIlZt51RF05eqmHOA-lmffuWR29oi_jydyK5MVb3JtluovQ5AARbCIR5tuOyV8e89e8t6HMb_xRDnj5G-VbGFlM9aYQNhODQqx6mw1XrY3QtI7RfnJgMiFyJoDWmKk0F0UQo7IjWW/s1600/20140817_101242.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiV36hp3YVGDs6aQFjMkZX2RQd7vlF1IbiykDmkEh70Bz8YxOXorfHyo1_GYdmI64CU80QwWC3iWJIyCV-FKl5FAu-og9VeoGBy1lJyuo4VwG1hcYOaufMbOqyvQQvLgtTnnofvJIxLDAyN/s1600/20140817_101938.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiV36hp3YVGDs6aQFjMkZX2RQd7vlF1IbiykDmkEh70Bz8YxOXorfHyo1_GYdmI64CU80QwWC3iWJIyCV-FKl5FAu-og9VeoGBy1lJyuo4VwG1hcYOaufMbOqyvQQvLgtTnnofvJIxLDAyN/s1600/20140817_101938.jpg" height="99" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
After looking across the pond we decided to head towards the height of land which was back under cover as little inlets to the pond were explored. A fork in the trail and we decided to head towards the right, an old herd path it appears that was starting to become overgrown but continuing on we found our way to a small beach area near an old beaver lodge. Numerous campsites have been used over the years in this area and a couple of makeshift fire pits, someone even left their tin can behind that had been used as target practice. This could be a great quick getaway for a fall weekend.<br />
<br />
The hike out was only a mile and it was pretty easy going though the rain was getting a little more aggressive each step of the way. Elevation difference is 800 feet between the pond and trailhead, something to take note of how much you really want to carry if a camping weekend wanted many extras.<br />
<br />
Great hike in a new area, a couple of red lines and of course Gumby Hiker!<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Scotthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13436440799835611081noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3091682651320741192.post-45216632750051391112014-08-17T22:06:00.000-04:002014-08-29T17:06:34.191-04:00Cannon MountainAfter a quick morning on the Hancocks I knew that tackling Cannon Mountain as the 2nd hike of the day was going to be tough. Finding parking at Cannon itself seemed almost as difficult as it would appear.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Changing into clean hiking attire especially the socks I found my way over to the Kinsman Ridge trail which of course just starts going up without hesitation. I'd like to say that I remember this trail from prior trips however this is the first time I've seen it without snow and admittedly I prefer it that way. Honestly I don't remember it being this steep in the back of my mind but then again I'm not sure I was thinking of anything other than why am I doing this this afternoon?</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
In any event upwards I continued with my feet slipping over the eroded terrain I finally got to an area that was familiar before breaking out to the herd of tourists making the long grueling trek from the Gondola to the stair climber from hell and views that many will never remember or comprehend what it takes to climb a 4K. I didn't bother to join the throngs of visitors on this day, rather sit for a moment while silently collecting my 3rd summit of the day and realize how tired I really was and contemplating the descent back to my car.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Grabbed my pack, walking before I had everything secured when a young child asked what the hose was coming over the shoulder strap. A brief explanation had the child talking more about what the gear was and why I carried it until noticing that hiking tattoo on my lower calf. It was a refreshing conversation and hope that the parental units will accommodate the request in the near future, this brought a smile while heading back down, taking my mind off of the next 2+ miles.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Thankfully it was uneventful but quick getting back to the car passing a few hikers on their way up including a trail runner, Josh, that was tackling Cannon, the Cannon Balls and Kinsman Ridge. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Not a great entry but nonetheless a great day on the 4000 foot peaks in the White Mountains - a truly blessed individual to be able to climb.</div>
Scotthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13436440799835611081noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3091682651320741192.post-11592668728450324222014-08-17T19:21:00.000-04:002014-08-18T14:24:18.506-04:00North and South Hancock<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHvDGcqYvZfUi0wzPNuGLtlsCPhhjixJWjLK7Wk8Po1vuvfY-8UJLBov2YZvPBjGXm-Ob31avKnq02FcO15ePdMHFmnXwOUXZCDtIlY029Cr0lBjchvSIQYv7n7Onanil_0JnBUUc6tHHL/s1600/20140816_110737.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHvDGcqYvZfUi0wzPNuGLtlsCPhhjixJWjLK7Wk8Po1vuvfY-8UJLBov2YZvPBjGXm-Ob31avKnq02FcO15ePdMHFmnXwOUXZCDtIlY029Cr0lBjchvSIQYv7n7Onanil_0JnBUUc6tHHL/s1600/20140816_110737.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Arriving at the Hancock Parking area I took a few minutes to get my gear ready, change footwear and stretch in hopes that I'd catch a glimpse of the ever elusive Gumby somewhere on trail. 8:08am and off I go down the Hancock Notch Trail to my surprise finding many new water bars including what looked like a putting green (sand) in the middle of the trail. The trail was in very good shape, wet in the normal places with some hopping from side to side to avoid the muck and trying not to watch a LaSportiva shoe disappear with my foot still attached.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZcnwEwSZpfl7lPqtcQBjznUDkTQGX0s4WVz7g917w__g_kpvDgDj_aJcFxG2zPMdDfAam8Mk4svJXpvKJOpyG-Tdu4SWIBD3dSj7mGJxxhOsljLC_MS34qhTA435-IIUipWNUH9d9T2EC/s1600/20140816_082351.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZcnwEwSZpfl7lPqtcQBjznUDkTQGX0s4WVz7g917w__g_kpvDgDj_aJcFxG2zPMdDfAam8Mk4svJXpvKJOpyG-Tdu4SWIBD3dSj7mGJxxhOsljLC_MS34qhTA435-IIUipWNUH9d9T2EC/s1600/20140816_082351.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
The water crossings were easily crossable with minimal collateral damage, feet still dry and moving forward. Before I really knew it I was taking a slight left towards (instead of taking the path towards Sawyer Pond) to the Loop looking at my watch and noticing that the time had only been just under 45 minutes for the first 1.8 miles! The next 0.7 went just as quickly and at about 9:10a here was Gumby coming towards me moving pretty quickly himself which is no surprise, the surprise part was that he had started at 7a and was on his way OUT! After a surprise encounter and a couple of minutes are shooting the @$#%^ we went our ways knowing that we'd see each other later on for dinner and a hike on Sunday. <br />
<br />
This gave me even more motivation, could this be a breakout day by recovering a bit of my own strength and speed? Pressing on to the loop the decision had already made to take the North peak first and not have to worry about coming down that when my legs were tired, wet rocks/roots to slip on. This was the first slowing of the day but did my best to not be to much of a swing in momentum. Taking frequent 20-30 second breaks I was able to control my breathing for easier recovery times instead of from exhaustion brought me to about 150-200 feet from breaking out to North Hancock. This is where I caught up to 3 hikers (Steve, Samantha and I can't remember the other name) and walked up with them the rest of the way including a 15 minute break at the outlook. Shortly after there were quite a few hikers arriving and with limited space I grabbed the pack as everyone was talking about food and beverages, nothing as good as a Woodstock Inn 4000-footer IPA I mentioned as I was informed that the 3 I had just met would be there this evening. Told them if I was in the area I'd look for them, off I go to South Hancock. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi32zTP41xUw1o-CYrQ0pspVhfh29qKhj4JRn5pwzIrD4sKrZq_Chg5SkrzuV0-tZJ-2hIzqOVv4AghMMjgeR9JZcAIDfHHJQoUu0gce_KySOdT8-gVXVHJFSMRDLSqSC1qEoa95i907U-l/s1600/20140816_092548.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi32zTP41xUw1o-CYrQ0pspVhfh29qKhj4JRn5pwzIrD4sKrZq_Chg5SkrzuV0-tZJ-2hIzqOVv4AghMMjgeR9JZcAIDfHHJQoUu0gce_KySOdT8-gVXVHJFSMRDLSqSC1qEoa95i907U-l/s1600/20140816_092548.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1FUhv_X2WwFjUBj9NUhLcfcD9F3-mg-RrwleUiCZebgAEdahcMyQ4aXhCTtoGWR_bLLnP8Y_CqIL8VURCJSPwe5xrdsV_vjT9AI-e7umkN1putIg7QPJoZvN2003BprAwf_OaELb8w-Yl/s1600/20140816_102624.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1FUhv_X2WwFjUBj9NUhLcfcD9F3-mg-RrwleUiCZebgAEdahcMyQ4aXhCTtoGWR_bLLnP8Y_CqIL8VURCJSPwe5xrdsV_vjT9AI-e7umkN1putIg7QPJoZvN2003BprAwf_OaELb8w-Yl/s1600/20140816_102624.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
After leaving the Outlook I would see no one along the way until I reached South Hancock which seemed like time stood still. Strength and motivation was still very high as I maneuvered through the new bog bridges, avoiding the mud and wet areas speeds this up immensely (Thank You AMC!) while standing on South Hancock at a few minutes after 11a, less than 3 hours left the parking area. There was a father and son talking of their journey and completing their 6th 4000 footer in a 2 week period while waiting for their mother to join them before heading off to their 7th on the North summit. As more ascended to the South summit wishing all a great day my descent found my legs not aching at all even with the stride I had all day but was awaiting what the next 0.5 mile would bring. It was slick and a bit tricky, thankfully my poles were assisting with keeping balance and allowing for long safe stretches while still taking as much time as needed for the best possible path.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnXOnLX2zByvOYNkkH3G6iGsEzBGg0OAEU7qe9Vuohimjx-AjlM8KFfjXCKLNDRXAe24EoBSuzcincDH5jcqhVDMrjmVLSLrZyM6k94PIlMwB9ObDiN46M5LCjbcd6YLN-fIhTzqAjRY8w/s1600/20140816_105046.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnXOnLX2zByvOYNkkH3G6iGsEzBGg0OAEU7qe9Vuohimjx-AjlM8KFfjXCKLNDRXAe24EoBSuzcincDH5jcqhVDMrjmVLSLrZyM6k94PIlMwB9ObDiN46M5LCjbcd6YLN-fIhTzqAjRY8w/s1600/20140816_105046.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Once at the loop trail junction again I was able to speed back up a bit passing hikers on their way, some with full backpacks for camping. I contemplated with the idea instead of going somewhere else to hike afterwards that maybe I'd like to take Cedar Brook trail towards Lincoln Woods since I hadn't been out that direction since I was a Boy Scout but the allure of adding another 4K peak to my month of August was going to win out. No time at all I was closing in on arriving back at the Kangamangus Highway when my first fall in months happened when my left foot slid out from under me and my poles not firmly on the ground my hands broke my fall with enough force that it actually made my upper arms hurt for the rest of the day and skinning my knee - not the replaced one thankfully. Picked myself up cursing a bit for being careless and thinking ahead to the next hike before I finished the one I was on! <br />
<br />
At the car I checked the time to find that even with the stops and breaks it took 4 hours and 21 minutes to complete the 9.8 mile hike! 2.25MPH averaged is incredibly faster than any time I can remember, let alone I still felt really strong and though I knew it was probably not in my best interest was decidedly on my way to Cannon Mt to fill in the August Grid.<br />
<br />
Since Bio-Met Knee Replacement there have been 26 total peaks (22 towards the new round of 48) climbed and 130.9 miles hiked in less than a year. Will this afternoon bring me another? Stay tuned for the next blog entry.<br />
<br />
Note *** Later in the afternoon I did in fact stop at Woodstock Inn and did get to talk with the 3 hikers I had met earlier in the day. Bad part is you got your table before we could exchange contact information for future hikes. If anyone knows Steve or Samantha from MA please refer them to this report, Thank You!<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Scotthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13436440799835611081noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3091682651320741192.post-61384348481055536952014-08-04T20:00:00.000-04:002014-08-05T12:10:02.704-04:00North and South Kinsman<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-caWJrnWbwI4/U-D5yGQmwbI/AAAAAAAAPbo/6WuSGfKfN3k/s1600/20140804_115659.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-caWJrnWbwI4/U-D5yGQmwbI/AAAAAAAAPbo/6WuSGfKfN3k/s1600/20140804_115659.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LcAD8j5FWBY/U-D5yX-RGYI/AAAAAAAAPbk/QlQiO0V94is/s1600/20140804_125409.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LcAD8j5FWBY/U-D5yX-RGYI/AAAAAAAAPbk/QlQiO0V94is/s1600/20140804_125409.jpg" height="112" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Two months since my last hike, that can't be correct could it? Sadly to say it had been, work had taken over the last handful of weekends with a project that would not come to pass at the last moments. With a long weekend at hand I chose Monday to head out but to where? With the many sheets to go by including the Grid and what do I have for my next round of 48 I chose North and South Kinsman, most importantly because they have not been visited on my return tour after knee replacement.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-R_9ZeSi3xJI/U-D6mB3aXOI/AAAAAAAAPcE/ttCGu8LvMxw/s1600/20140804_081626.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-R_9ZeSi3xJI/U-D6mB3aXOI/AAAAAAAAPcE/ttCGu8LvMxw/s1600/20140804_081626.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
Rain followed me the entire way from Keene to Easton NH and was wondering did I make yet another poor decision for hiking? Starting at the trail head of Kinsman Trail off of Route 116 rain jacket and pack cover on to keep wet gear and body to a minimum but as we all know you're either going to get wet from rain or sweating inside of the jacket. Halfway to Bald Peak the rain had subsided, what an opportunity to put the jacket on the outside of my back to air dry for awhile in case it was needed throughout the day. Shortly after starting out I came across this old shack, appears to possibly be used as a sugar shack holding area? Most of the first 2 miles is pretty easy, getting into a rythym, not pushing my breathing too much due to not being out for the last 2 months. Less than an hour later I found myself at the junciton to Bald Peak Spur. This was well worth the 0.2 even if the cloud cover was dense, it was also a nice spot to take a break.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5yl2UYmyUuE/U-D5mBiXEeI/AAAAAAAAPbc/nxz6VZMJeLE/s1600/20140804_090354.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5yl2UYmyUuE/U-D5mBiXEeI/AAAAAAAAPbc/nxz6VZMJeLE/s1600/20140804_090354.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-l6zukr12pSo/U-D5gbOPwII/AAAAAAAAPbM/TVUGr9Vu5fc/s1600/20140804_085305.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-l6zukr12pSo/U-D5gbOPwII/AAAAAAAAPbM/TVUGr9Vu5fc/s1600/20140804_085305.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-b-36eQmuDZ8/U-D5kDl6rWI/AAAAAAAAPbU/KhL7geVgiDE/s1600/20140804_090418.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-b-36eQmuDZ8/U-D5kDl6rWI/AAAAAAAAPbU/KhL7geVgiDE/s1600/20140804_090418.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Back on my way up the next 1.6 miles was full of rocks, roots, moss and plain wet the entire way. My mind started not only wondering why I had chose the Kinsmans yet again (yes I know the answer) but what would it be like on the descent? Forgetting my poles in the car I figured it just might take me a few extra minutes to get down when the time came but I'd worry about then. It didn't seem to take long before the junction arrived taking the first snack break and overlooking the clouds covering where I knew Cannon was sitting, camera shy possibly? <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-35HEEowYwCc/U-D6Nga5u0I/AAAAAAAAPb0/DeqcaPxWNPw/s1600/20140804_110359.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-35HEEowYwCc/U-D6Nga5u0I/AAAAAAAAPb0/DeqcaPxWNPw/s1600/20140804_110359.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FTqEDGwvx4Q/U-D6OGqPOOI/AAAAAAAAPb4/2ZX0ZUv3smw/s1600/20140804_110406.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FTqEDGwvx4Q/U-D6OGqPOOI/AAAAAAAAPb4/2ZX0ZUv3smw/s1600/20140804_110406.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
As I had my jerky, cheese and dried cherries the first fellow hiker of the day was descending from the summits at about 10:30a, figuring to get there earlier than I he either had to be REALLY fast or stayed at the Kinsman Shelter or Lonesome Lake Hut... I was correct on LAC. After that it seemed like the floodgates had opened up with numerous hikers groups of anywhere of 2 to 10 people on their way to the summits, and to think I thought for a Monday I'd see not a soul! I let everyone pass then walked behind the group of 10, I was in no hurry and it was nice to have the company. One woman took the time to show me a few white flowers on the side of the trail which if memory serves correctly are called 'bunchberry', known for growing in wet mossy areas surrounded by ferns. I asked if she thought they might be growing on the Greenleaf Trail towards Greenleaf Hut, her response with smile was "There's a great way to find out" :) While the group went down to the overlook I figured I'd take the chance to make up a little time towards the south summit but quickly caught up to the a dad and his son, Colin who were making their way to peak #24. They had moved to CA a few years back and on their annual return carving a few days to hike throughout the Whites and towards completing their quest of 48. We ended up hiking together and having lunch at the summit, talking of trips taken, trails and a few options for adventures the next couple of days. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjIATXRg6ChtuQ0UDfDtr__iMCTMJ6LN2C7CGMBmSwlzv-MMc8XwduMzhdD96gKmdlDbgyJw7zTs_vKVgS8EeKZDBFNr_wVKYkNOwdWl4yGh0gVE2HXn3udegx8tPSyu1cckIYUPqbXv02/s1600/20140804_125437.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjIATXRg6ChtuQ0UDfDtr__iMCTMJ6LN2C7CGMBmSwlzv-MMc8XwduMzhdD96gKmdlDbgyJw7zTs_vKVgS8EeKZDBFNr_wVKYkNOwdWl4yGh0gVE2HXn3udegx8tPSyu1cckIYUPqbXv02/s1600/20140804_125437.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhkFgODl-OD6-EPpF1i-EeAMSvg2pZXT6aq_i88gq1IWgE0Dai1GE0dOlIkUlCKmN-hdjYbhYAKUyLftGaEO0IY35RsUlaljI6mavaqjZ5ajaG5YuUvJktvvWMdYaAaE8vS9DUf9YoVpWe/s1600/20140804_131019.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhkFgODl-OD6-EPpF1i-EeAMSvg2pZXT6aq_i88gq1IWgE0Dai1GE0dOlIkUlCKmN-hdjYbhYAKUyLftGaEO0IY35RsUlaljI6mavaqjZ5ajaG5YuUvJktvvWMdYaAaE8vS9DUf9YoVpWe/s1600/20140804_131019.jpg" height="109" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
After a lengthy stay we headed out and back to the overlook at North Kinsman, I would find myself again just sititng back and enjoying the best view I've had from these peaks.... ever. After another 25 minutes or so seeing the skies turning a little darker than previous I decided this was my sign (as Bill Engvall would say) to get my things together and start heading back. Leaving here at 1:20p, back to the junction at 1:32p I was no remembering that the wetness of terrain might be an issue, take my time and get down in one piece. I'm not sure what happened, feet weren't going to fail me and found myself at Bald Peak junction at about 1:57pm then next thing I knew I was walking into the parking lot at 2:52pm! <br />
<br />
Two more peaks checked off for 5th round, August Grid and Post Bio-Met (knee replacement) which is the most amazing to me (21 of the 48 and 24 total since with a few repeats).<br />
<br />
What's next? Tune in to find out.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://plus.google.com/photos?hl=en_US" target="_blank">Click here for pictures</a>Scotthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13436440799835611081noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3091682651320741192.post-77526509012354945912014-06-08T21:32:00.000-04:002014-06-09T09:33:23.329-04:00Sunset on Tecumseh<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia2aSH3BUlrXXTHAHd2Os_uAYkwYrJq1qQZf92n1YXDFhe47nFC8_O0QKg1Ms2dmkU06KQ__1sSRrKWNf3Sje0FfsJ4qV9QiNohfgsP1jwdjIICKAKjUGL2Cmm_mqcshxMNqkoLWcq34C0/s1600/20140607_201411.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia2aSH3BUlrXXTHAHd2Os_uAYkwYrJq1qQZf92n1YXDFhe47nFC8_O0QKg1Ms2dmkU06KQ__1sSRrKWNf3Sje0FfsJ4qV9QiNohfgsP1jwdjIICKAKjUGL2Cmm_mqcshxMNqkoLWcq34C0/s1600/20140607_201411.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Following a long day in the Presidential Range a week prior I wanted to attempt to keep my feet moving for consecutive weekends, deciding for one of the smaller 4000 footers in the White Mountains, Mt. Tecumseh. Though this is most elevation challenged throughout the 48 official 4000-footers it should not be taken too lightly.<br />
<br />
I was originally planning on taking the route from the Tripoli Rd side as I have never been up that side as of yet but with the other activities during the day I took what was left and headed for the Waterville Valley side for a hopeful sunset leaving the parking lot at 6:10p. A gentle slope along the brook keeps you company as well as where I believe is the site of where the tree was obliterated by a lightning strike within the last year or so (splinters and chunks of tree strewn around the area). After awhile you find yourself going down hill, why is this after reaching about 2,400 feet is that you have to give 100 feet back? Shortly after the stream crossing I found an 8 ounce Bud Light can off to the side, putting in the middle of the trail to pickup on my back down. I'm not opposed to bringing a beer up to enjoy but at least have the courtesy to bring it back with you and most importantly make it a GOOD beer :)<br />
<br />
After the view sign by the slopes is when the elevation makes you start to work for it! Lots of rocks to go up and over and seems like you're not getting anywhere but finally the fork in the road arrives and either way you choose the summit awaits you shortly after. I chose the left side to go up knowing that there was a flatter area to walk through before the final push the small cairn on at the summit. I reached just in time for the sun to be setting off through the woods at about 8p and views off to the north, well worth the evening jaunt.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo-wcQBxLudILW8JwaTHawSX0p0Fp6PwjpwOWt6ZMTbeUwV6AGv7ok0gU-goS0JwikpgcL1UnAMsX2Hlv7D6DoHuEEkT73cJbrJ_u_CLApf-ukt8XyI80juV-bZjZ7D0N5BRjq9vQlG1Ff/s1600/20140607_200811.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo-wcQBxLudILW8JwaTHawSX0p0Fp6PwjpwOWt6ZMTbeUwV6AGv7ok0gU-goS0JwikpgcL1UnAMsX2Hlv7D6DoHuEEkT73cJbrJ_u_CLApf-ukt8XyI80juV-bZjZ7D0N5BRjq9vQlG1Ff/s1600/20140607_200811.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
8:20p and it was time to get on my way back down, see how far I could get without using the headlamp. The descent always goes much quicker and this time was no exception as long as chose my footing wisely making it back to the parking lot at just shy 9:01p using the headlamp just through the densely wooded coverage.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Scotthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13436440799835611081noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3091682651320741192.post-67456289481247624222014-06-02T06:00:00.000-04:002014-06-02T17:00:34.979-04:00Madison and Pierce with Everything in between!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjXSYPaPIYwBNgehT7aBDx2Apduq1RubryO7RTXwC9eHY3qtCo3-JpTs-rnb11j52I9jr5XkatxE7JWdYS_l-M2fPhrCuPm-pv7QnsAJyfzDaLDQFHLqpkkomrJgI-9Ty3YnMx4cCb9EmV/s1600/20140601_085037.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjXSYPaPIYwBNgehT7aBDx2Apduq1RubryO7RTXwC9eHY3qtCo3-JpTs-rnb11j52I9jr5XkatxE7JWdYS_l-M2fPhrCuPm-pv7QnsAJyfzDaLDQFHLqpkkomrJgI-9Ty3YnMx4cCb9EmV/s1600/20140601_085037.jpg" height="110" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-C8Qsso26ZK4/U4yIItU67NI/AAAAAAAAO2E/JvUVsKCBwQ4/s1600/20140601_130021.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-C8Qsso26ZK4/U4yIItU67NI/AAAAAAAAO2E/JvUVsKCBwQ4/s1600/20140601_130021.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:WordDocument>
<w:View>Normal</w:View>
<w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom>
<w:TrackMoves/>
<w:TrackFormatting/>
<w:PunctuationKerning/>
<w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/>
<w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>
<w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent>
<w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>
<w:DoNotPromoteQF/>
<w:LidThemeOther>EN-US</w:LidThemeOther>
<w:LidThemeAsian>X-NONE</w:LidThemeAsian>
<w:LidThemeComplexScript>X-NONE</w:LidThemeComplexScript>
<w:Compatibility>
<w:BreakWrappedTables/>
<w:SnapToGridInCell/>
<w:WrapTextWithPunct/>
<w:UseAsianBreakRules/>
<w:DontGrowAutofit/>
<w:SplitPgBreakAndParaMark/>
<w:DontVertAlignCellWithSp/>
<w:DontBreakConstrainedForcedTables/>
<w:DontVertAlignInTxbx/>
<w:Word11KerningPairs/>
<w:CachedColBalance/>
</w:Compatibility>
<w:BrowserLevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel>
<m:mathPr>
<m:mathFont m:val="Cambria Math"/>
<m:brkBin m:val="before"/>
<m:brkBinSub m:val="--"/>
<m:smallFrac m:val="off"/>
<m:dispDef/>
<m:lMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:rMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:defJc m:val="centerGroup"/>
<m:wrapIndent m:val="1440"/>
<m:intLim m:val="subSup"/>
<m:naryLim m:val="undOvr"/>
</m:mathPr></w:WordDocument>
</xml><![endif]-->
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span>I'm
not sure what I was thinking when I was planning out the next couple of hikes I
wanted to do, I knew that the grid month of June was sitting at a measly
10.<span> </span>Talking about these ideas I was
informed that if I needed a car spot then I had one as long as schedules
aligned so an attempt for a Presidential traverse was in the works and I
couldn't have picked a better day.</span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: small;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-size: small;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span>After
car camping Saturday evening in Gorham and the alarm set for 2:45a (yes the
snooze button was hit twice) I found my way to Appalachia parking lot at 3:30a
and on my way at 3:45a up the Valley Way to start my adventure under
headlamp.<span> </span>It certainly looks different
in pitch black, thankfully I changed the batteries and carry an extra set for
the Petzl MYO RXP just in case (as well as an extra flashlight) and lit up the
trail with the medium setting.<span> </span>It's also
funny how noises during the day is common place but when you can't see anything
off to the sides it can get a little unsettling.<span> </span>It didn't seem like it was taking too long to
get the Madison Springs Hut, get myself a drink and small snack before
summiting Mt. Madison then back down to collect my belongings and noticed that
someone was walking around inside so I went in to refill fluids, add a layer on
off to Mt. Adams which always takes a lot out of me.</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjdB_pFNSlwtyK7tyjmQro0ffXBw2CLy90Lf460L_yMtLba254AHvn-wlQiaBrVeAtioOL-ExqB16TzSRDmKYC8PXKtMYhyuRc4qtiMl0BFTg6DAhG_Qik1ktjsN271HYtED9sLLpzAjhM/s1600/20140601_075901.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjdB_pFNSlwtyK7tyjmQro0ffXBw2CLy90Lf460L_yMtLba254AHvn-wlQiaBrVeAtioOL-ExqB16TzSRDmKYC8PXKtMYhyuRc4qtiMl0BFTg6DAhG_Qik1ktjsN271HYtED9sLLpzAjhM/s1600/20140601_075901.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-size: small;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span>As
usual the climb to Mt. Adams was a tough one, taking extra time knowing that if
I was spent by the time I reached the summit the day would end sooner than
later.<span> </span>About 30 feet from the peak the
left thigh muscle cramped up enough that I couldn't bend or push off it, relying
on my right leg and replaced knee joint to take the load.<span> </span>About 10-15 minutes overlooking the beautiful
morning where I would see the first people of the day, 2 hikers from Androscoggin
Rescue that had camped on the summit and a woman hiking solo as well who had
come up over Howker Ridge attempting the same as myself.<span> </span>Gentle massage and fluids I was up and ready
to continue towards Mt. Jefferson, thankfully the cramp had subsided and made
the rock hopping down to Thunderstorm Junction much easier.<span> </span>Shortly after, maybe just shy of halfway to
the Edmands Col I was greeted by a familiar face, <a href="http://dmoutdoors.blogspot.com/">Dan</a>, who was on his return traverse
from the day prior.<span> </span>After a brief
conversation we were on our separate ways, the sun really starting to beat down
as I reached the Col then the ascent to Jefferson.<span> </span>As I reached the remaining snow field, I
seriously contemplated taking my boots off and walking across but figured if I
tried to put my boots back on my feet would revolt :(<span> </span>I was overtaken by a trail runner that I
would never see again on this day but I was able to pass a couple of hikers
reaching the summit of Mt. Jefferson at 9:55a.<span>
</span>I wasn't sure if I was making decent time, I'd been on trail for over 6
hours but I had attained the 3rd peak but knew that going over Clay to get to Washington
was going to take quite awhile being just under 3 miles away and I was starting
to get tired. Along the way it's always nice to see one of my favorite areas the Sphinx Col, a smile of course and thoughts of all the times I've passed through here.</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXiSgkdOSITrRb1Crpg8708hcnAdPR9Eu0HHHCP_2xf5qlqvAd8U4TtirfjcYDzFPn5ajK7YksYWhE2taa6c_MR7roQZD0zcs93w2KEZhfhcvZbutHBvxSOb9zIXTHcTZoEgmDgroneDlm/s1600/20140601_105107.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXiSgkdOSITrRb1Crpg8708hcnAdPR9Eu0HHHCP_2xf5qlqvAd8U4TtirfjcYDzFPn5ajK7YksYWhE2taa6c_MR7roQZD0zcs93w2KEZhfhcvZbutHBvxSOb9zIXTHcTZoEgmDgroneDlm/s1600/20140601_105107.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-size: small;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span>I
was correct in my assumptions needing extra breaks over Mt. Clay and the
incline to Mt. Washington though watching many skiers and snowboarders at the
cusp of the Great Gulf, and people call hikers crazy?<span> </span>Sun in full blaze mode I reached the summit
of Mt. Washington at just before 1p to the throngs of tourists at the summit
clamoring to have their picture taken.<span> </span>I
was going to bypass the line and just tap the summit and cairn behind but
thankfully a fellow hiker (who's name I didn't catch) said I'll take your
picture if you take mine and I think the 2nd biggest smile of the day was when
he took out a Caddyshack groundhog puppet and placed it on the summit sign.<span> </span>What I intended on being a quick rest, refuel
fluids and a bite to eat ended up being almost half an hour, definitely putting
me even further behind.<span> </span>Starting the
decline to the Lakes of the Clouds Hut was a little slow while my body got back
into motion but found a decent pace and not waste energy attempting to make up
lost ground since there was still a long way to go.<span> </span>Still lots of hikers ascending and in great
spirits and having a blast under this gorgeous day that was upon us.<span> </span>When reaching the Lakes it was a bit cooler
but unfortunately I didn't have time to stop and dip my very sore feet
continuing on and past the Hut which wasn't open anyways and I was still full
on fluids.<span> </span>Mt. Monroe has always been
one of my favorites and to had it all to myself with clear views in all
directions at 2:45p.<span> </span></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RDL8JXXMjOs/U4zlB_S8q4I/AAAAAAAAO2g/DQHBf5mRHrU/s1600/20140601_144838.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RDL8JXXMjOs/U4zlB_S8q4I/AAAAAAAAO2g/DQHBf5mRHrU/s1600/20140601_144838.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-size: small;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span>Again
knowing that time was not on my favor and that I was not going to make a
deadline to be on Mt. Pierce I did my best to continue on the next 2 miles to
Mt. Eisenhower but it is difficult to not gaze at this stunning and underappreciated
area.<span> </span>I vowed to remember this and make
a point to return another time when time was not pressing but I'm wondering
what it looks like covered in snow and ice :)<span>
</span>Mt. Franklin was a quick side trip but since I was there and I'd heard
that many traverses include this as well I had to visit on my way to Ike. <span> </span>Edmands Path off to my right I headed straight
towards one of the larger cairns on a summit I've seen (which also brought back
memories of the cairn just at the bottom of Mt. Jefferson, anyone else remember
that?)<span> </span>Had to put a picture below for
those who may not have seen it.</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2FRrjHiA4vnAF7weCRWREKv2tCBJK1bleqtidoysKZhRgg0ZI4ayd5U_1RoMGgCIfsjLIRdTa2p1vHO1p7NCRfRVzrUmf0Zy3L1i0HGLFbDF9_WUFqGv0rUnTdKyIwY7A2PB2zzS-nTwq/s1600/P3200799.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2FRrjHiA4vnAF7weCRWREKv2tCBJK1bleqtidoysKZhRgg0ZI4ayd5U_1RoMGgCIfsjLIRdTa2p1vHO1p7NCRfRVzrUmf0Zy3L1i0HGLFbDF9_WUFqGv0rUnTdKyIwY7A2PB2zzS-nTwq/s1600/P3200799.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-size: small;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span>On
the incline I'd been passed by a couple also working towards a traverse and
they had started 45 minutes before me earlier in the day but took Howker Ridge
so that gave me a little breathing room.<span>
</span>I found this out after arriving at Ike and brief conversation as they
were heading on their way, congratulations to them on their first
traverse!<span> </span>This was the home stretch
where Jen had been waiting for me on Mt. Pierce for what now was at least an
hour, 1.3 miles and I'm completely honest that my physical strength was
gone.<span> </span>It felt like I was shuffling my
feet instead of picking them up and putting them down, trudging through water
and mud not caring if my boots or legs were filthy I just wanted this to be over.<span> </span>The views were still amazing but I don't think
I was in a frame of mind to enjoy them any longer only reach the last summit
even though I knew there was still slightly over 3 miles to descend.<span> </span>As I reached the junction sign I see a handful
of packs strewn around it recognizing one from earlier at the Lakes, adding
mine to it up I went.<span> </span>As I got close a
woman exclaimed "It's him, he's here" identifying me by the large
scar on my right knee from a surgery knee replacement just 9 months prior.<span> </span>I smiled and talked for a minute or so as the
rest of her party caught up and I slowly stepped forward to touch the cairn and
pin on the end of my peaks for the day briefly after 6p.<span> </span>I apologized for being late and was told it
was nothing, I enjoyed the beautiful views of the Southern Presidential Range
including Mt. Washington off in the distance.<span>
</span>As I was relaxing Jen and I talked about the journey I had just taken
and admitted that it could be a slow descent and when we got up to leave and
who arrives?<span> </span>Another familiar group
completing their own traverse is Jeff, Karine, Heather and Kali who I haven't
seen in almost a year, congratulations to you all on your traverse it was great
to see you.</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-size: small;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span>As
promised the descent was brutal on my legs and had nothing left to give over
the wet rocks but what choice did I have than to continue at this point?<span> </span>That 1.2 mile section of trail to the Mizpah
Cut-off seemed to last forever not that the remaining 1.9 was any better.<span> </span>By the time we reached Gibbs Falls I knew it
was just about over after 15 hours, feelings of accomplishment were finally
starting to settle in reaching the Highland Center parking lot.<span> </span>Thank you Jen for meeting me on Mt. Pierce
and bringing me back to my car making the entire day a possibility and success.</span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: small;">
</span><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span>Today
was probably the most difficult hike I've been on in my 4 1/2 years of hiking
physically and mentally.<span> </span>It's great to
look at the numbers of peaks during this time (261 4K's), <span> </span>1580 miles (approximately 3,160,000 steps) or
becoming <a href="http://48in1winter.com/scottlawrie2012-2013.shtml">#70</a> on
the 48-in-1 Winter season of 2012-13 but the 2 items that are glaring to me is
the fact that the majority of this has been done after a lumbar fusion in July
2010 and knee replacement in August 2013.<span> </span></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span><span> </span>This hike will be remembered for many reasons, I have lots to be
thankful for and look forward to the future.</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span><a href="https://plus.google.com/photos?hl=en_US" target="_blank">Click here for Pictures</a></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span><br /></span></span></div>
<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:LatentStyles DefLockedState="false" DefUnhideWhenUsed="true"
DefSemiHidden="true" DefQFormat="false" DefPriority="99"
LatentStyleCount="267">
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="0" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Normal"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="heading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="35" QFormat="true" Name="caption"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="10" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" Name="Default Paragraph Font"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="11" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtitle"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="22" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Strong"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="20" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="59" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Table Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Placeholder Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="No Spacing"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Revision"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="34" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="List Paragraph"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="29" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="30" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="19" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="21" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="31" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="32" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="33" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Book Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="37" Name="Bibliography"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" QFormat="true" Name="TOC Heading"/>
</w:LatentStyles>
</xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 10]>
<style>
/* Style Definitions */
table.MsoNormalTable
{mso-style-name:"Table Normal";
mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0;
mso-tstyle-colband-size:0;
mso-style-noshow:yes;
mso-style-priority:99;
mso-style-qformat:yes;
mso-style-parent:"";
mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;
mso-para-margin-top:0in;
mso-para-margin-right:0in;
mso-para-margin-bottom:10.0pt;
mso-para-margin-left:0in;
line-height:115%;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:11.0pt;
font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif";
mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-fareast;
mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;}
</style>
<![endif]-->Scotthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13436440799835611081noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3091682651320741192.post-36086823781336306552014-05-03T20:30:00.000-04:002014-05-05T11:30:34.556-04:00North and South Hancock<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj85r_fBMQYdjlefctXQC1us4R5wdgnIszRp9uyr64dsq2bPjmiCpeI9vYU2sQVO1qIlaqZRsS5Vyy-hRWIrnM8UTAQVFpcC__PN8nJk2r72Lgp1DATp7VYmC2AFmh3gAF1NILUNFOD3qRl/s1600/20140503_103934.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj85r_fBMQYdjlefctXQC1us4R5wdgnIszRp9uyr64dsq2bPjmiCpeI9vYU2sQVO1qIlaqZRsS5Vyy-hRWIrnM8UTAQVFpcC__PN8nJk2r72Lgp1DATp7VYmC2AFmh3gAF1NILUNFOD3qRl/s1600/20140503_103934.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SXqbzxnSoAw/U2ekkI_u4II/AAAAAAAAOk0/9TzSf0hE8Tc/s1600/20140503_103948.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SXqbzxnSoAw/U2ekkI_u4II/AAAAAAAAOk0/9TzSf0hE8Tc/s1600/20140503_103948.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
I've been trying to become more consistent with trips to the Whites while balancing other projects, interests and most importantly overall health. At the beginning of the week I had an entirely different idea but decided to change my plans due to the incoming rain arriving in the afternoon, Hancock summits it was to be after talking with a group that was planning on being in the same area.<br />
<br />
Arrived at the Hancock parking lot at 7:30a I was surprised to see half a dozen cars in the lot before me, guess I wasn't the only one with the same idea. Strapped the snowshoes on my pack (no I really didn't want the extra weight) but as the day passed I was glad to have them especially ascending to the South summit for the 0.5 miles of what feels like straight up, thank you lift gates! Wet trail with minor avoidable mud to start with moose prints to follow wondering if maybe he was still around but no luck. Water crossings were easily crossed though the water is covering a few of the easier rock hops with no ice to slip off, that really would have not been a good start to the day. Still plenty of snow to walk on, post holing and/or sliding off the rail didn't give me a great feeling to give full strides a try opting for a shorter gait to catch myself in the event of needing to catch my fall.<br />
<br />
At the Hancock loop the snowshoes were put on, no free ride today my friends! Plenty of snow and ice on the way up, to my surprise didn't take as long as I had expected though 25 minutes is no land speed record. A short break at the summit, slowly eating some trail mix awaiting a hungry Gray Jay or two to join me which never arrived. Back on my feet for the next 1.4 miles over to the North peak, still plenty of snow and was happy to have the snowshoes on to assist keeping me afloat. Encountered a couple of solo hikers on the clockwise route during this time all appearing in great spirits, enjoying the various conditions of a spring thaw. Myself, I was enjoying the walk in the counter clockwise direction for the first time since I was a teenager with our Boy Scout Troop in the pouring rain.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8b8WdyrZzoc/U2ekvWqtNqI/AAAAAAAAOlY/p2oOS2O4Rxk/s1600/20140503_112938.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8b8WdyrZzoc/U2ekvWqtNqI/AAAAAAAAOlY/p2oOS2O4Rxk/s1600/20140503_112938.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
North Hancock and all to myself at the outlook at 11:30a, sun shining through the white puffy clouds! Took my boots off to dry/breathe, shirt off to dry in the warmer air, lay back and enjoy the beautiful morning views of the Osceolas and Tripyramids. A few other hikers found their way to the outlook and we had some pretty good conversations while I relaxed awaiting the arrival of a group I was hoping to meet but as 12:45p arrived and clouds changing to gray I decided I had better get a move on considering the descent of the North Peak would be a challenge for my right knee. Snowshoes back on I was glad I did, it was steep and slippery grabbing every tree, branch or anything else to stay upright. I caught up to someone heading down with no traction at all, she was moving cautiously but doing very well. I offered up the pair of microspikes that I was not using and at first they were declined but after a short while she asked for them, after that I had a hard time keeping up! At the junction she took them off, gave them back and gone in a flash! It was nice to meet you Laura, keep on hiking!<br />
<br />
<br />
From the junction I left the snowshoes on until the wide water crossing, rinsed them off and re-attached to my pack. Rock hopped across and continued on, each crossing getting a little easier and snow melting impeding long strides but making decent time. Not decent enough though getting caught in the rain for the last 10-15 minutes, scrambling to get my rain coat out but then again that's why you carry the gear right? Not many free rides for gear and equipment today!<br />
<br />
Great way to spend the morning collecting 2 more peaks towards various lists and personal goals. <br />
<br />
<a href="https://plus.google.com/photos/108647201959149980866/albums/6009938757178784673?hl=en_US" target="_blank">Click here for a few photos</a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Scotthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13436440799835611081noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3091682651320741192.post-32492073829123699102014-04-18T19:30:00.000-04:002014-04-21T10:42:27.843-04:00Good Friday on Mt. HaleWith the day off and making no excuses that I had other things to do as I have been lately I was determined to spend a good portion of the day on trail. A couple of things I consider these days is what am I physically able to do, what haven't I visited for awhile and of course what have I yet to climb since my knee replacement this past August.... Mt. Hale up the Fire Warden's Trail it is.<br />
<br />
A later start to the morning knowing that Hale shouldn't take too long, leaving Keene at 6:45a arriving and ready to hit the trail at 9:30a bare boots down the herd path passing by the kiosk at the North Twin Trail straight to the Fire Warden's Trail. It was a little icy along the N. Twin trail but nothing that wasn't passable with care and proper footing, my knee was feeling well and strong so far but the test would come soon enough once the inclines begin. Shortly after taking the quick hard left up the FWT there was still not much snow but I knew there it was close by from the quick report I saw the day before in the FB Hiking the 4000 Footer (TY Bob and Geri). About 500 feet onto the trail I had enough with the layers I was wearing, stripping off 2 and placing them in a splintered tree trunk to pick up on my way back down. I also decided that I didn't need the windbreaker either so that went into the pile, hopeful that it didn't look like a hiker's gear free flea market if someone came up behind me :)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fbqSdH7phH0/U1Uko54S2pI/AAAAAAAAOfI/f9iRF5BXvwQ/s1600/20140418_111833.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fbqSdH7phH0/U1Uko54S2pI/AAAAAAAAOfI/f9iRF5BXvwQ/s1600/20140418_111833.jpg" height="90" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-C9cj2ZQ-M0A/U1UksAT42LI/AAAAAAAAOfQ/-Up-a-GDsrs/s1600/20140418_111605.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-C9cj2ZQ-M0A/U1UksAT42LI/AAAAAAAAOfQ/-Up-a-GDsrs/s1600/20140418_111605.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
It's always beautiful going through the birch glades and today was no exception, taking my time and enjoying everything possible until it sounded as if another sonic boom was occurring only to find it was a Spruce Grouse taking flight! Nothing like dead silence to remind you how forceful these birds sound when taking off (or even worse when protecting their young as they dive bomb you as has happened years past which Gumby Hiker and I can attest).<br />
<br />
<br />
Before long the opening towards the Presidential Range with a slightly obscured view of Mt. Washington, temps still warm and at this point the snowshoes were put on. Not sure if it was because I knew the short section in front of me would be better with the lift gates or I was just tired of carrying them, either way they were getting put to use. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lkOSwYds_jo/U1UlP5UHl-I/AAAAAAAAOfg/V9H8dQ6zJQ8/s1600/20140418_122700.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lkOSwYds_jo/U1UlP5UHl-I/AAAAAAAAOfg/V9H8dQ6zJQ8/s1600/20140418_122700.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
It didn't take long form here to reach the summit but as I got about 50 feet out I could hear voices and to my surprise just as I came around the corner to the clearing was another hiker appearing to be looking for the sound of snowshoes coming from nowhere. Enjoying the summit was 5 hikers who had stayed the prior night at Zealand Hut and were on there way out via the Lend-A-Hand Trail to Mt. Hale than down the Hale Brook Trail and Zealand Road to their cars (followed by a stop at Moat Mountain Smokehouse for an Iron Mike). I stayed at the summit for 45 minutes to an hour relaxing and enjoying the beautiful day before descending and back out to the car.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMQr3obRz3QBntDiYmBkyM0MHYfOqidD2yOqqVEqFvAiviQ26VK77ZCVmg__H3psF7tUygFCxUr7aAswFgDROGf7Dqtaviv1b_9GOoF2cm8bK3YcHtX4nj-LHYWDzrb52QzU4pkmGC_RGS/s1600/20140418_125333.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMQr3obRz3QBntDiYmBkyM0MHYfOqidD2yOqqVEqFvAiviQ26VK77ZCVmg__H3psF7tUygFCxUr7aAswFgDROGf7Dqtaviv1b_9GOoF2cm8bK3YcHtX4nj-LHYWDzrb52QzU4pkmGC_RGS/s1600/20140418_125333.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQQIKGUkUOT8tYzr8_3bPdy_w6RmseHjeyKncxABnjCdAg5ejqVNpRDpCQkTbeSRwE_zc5oyueQ_qJy_DdTo-LV3HW8DRSZzGNHLyxhLsj4Zog9aKyWJj1iKi3Rb4dwRvY7PWz_XCIYGEf/s1600/20140418_132137.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQQIKGUkUOT8tYzr8_3bPdy_w6RmseHjeyKncxABnjCdAg5ejqVNpRDpCQkTbeSRwE_zc5oyueQ_qJy_DdTo-LV3HW8DRSZzGNHLyxhLsj4Zog9aKyWJj1iKi3Rb4dwRvY7PWz_XCIYGEf/s1600/20140418_132137.jpg" height="95" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
After a few minutes of getting the bones and joints moving the descent was pretty quickly and without a hitch, reacquiring the few articles I left behind for awhile I was back on the N. Twin Trail stopping only for a minute or two to rinse off the snowshoes and attach to the pack for the rest of the day.<br />
<br />
Great day to be out in the Whites and a couple of items marked off lists such as Hale for April and a 4th round of 48, 4K-A-Day and most importantly the 11th 4,000 footer since my right knee was replaced. I've been slow to get back to FT or even PT hiking using excuses and other interests however I'm hoping that this is the positive step I need in the Northern direction.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Scotthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13436440799835611081noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3091682651320741192.post-32020876157807176112014-03-11T21:00:00.000-04:002014-03-14T09:08:02.782-04:00Mt. Eisenhower, Pierce and Jackson<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgN1ExGdOFzfLdBAJXBevSFDlyA0GxwD1atzA48e2YPDzbyVw46vpbc311rKeM0qZyLb36SyUKaNkrHW9fy9WBTYaR8nvb182egxpN1KqcrFxzhKdZyiA5T7dSCXfSrZblQ9NUpqPfT4ted/s1600/20140307_104650.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgN1ExGdOFzfLdBAJXBevSFDlyA0GxwD1atzA48e2YPDzbyVw46vpbc311rKeM0qZyLb36SyUKaNkrHW9fy9WBTYaR8nvb182egxpN1KqcrFxzhKdZyiA5T7dSCXfSrZblQ9NUpqPfT4ted/s1600/20140307_104650.jpg" height="114" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Work has been a little busy since this hike last Friday so a few pictures will have to be enough until I can edit this. It was beautiful blue sky day, temps and wind were more than manageable and saw well over 20 fellow hikers as the morning went along including Tim L and Paul with his 2 Golden's. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6MRJ3S12EK8/UyL5sqFRH4I/AAAAAAAANIc/JDPxO8paWuU/s1600/20140307_090223.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6MRJ3S12EK8/UyL5sqFRH4I/AAAAAAAANIc/JDPxO8paWuU/s1600/20140307_090223.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcbN-oza1a-j9sg15VzTgSAjp4Yo6zTJCOt9MJQV4rRqtXf9RT2sQxfbP0sVz5w6_xoL8ZmpaNzy9p05tf1SD9kVMB-T96pgnW2Zup0OoAPiYjqHRmgNHOFJpKyeDBt6VxGX2QB8rGa8kf/s1600/20140307_104344.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcbN-oza1a-j9sg15VzTgSAjp4Yo6zTJCOt9MJQV4rRqtXf9RT2sQxfbP0sVz5w6_xoL8ZmpaNzy9p05tf1SD9kVMB-T96pgnW2Zup0OoAPiYjqHRmgNHOFJpKyeDBt6VxGX2QB8rGa8kf/s1600/20140307_104344.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoXn2yIer32plj8doY0tJBhF2mI0ElTcn2Ebr34A_Dq58ZzZu_Uuds1jdFU_4Ny43tW9pVE-ruHrZW3lSWmpwLpJLE7qej7BuP1YRBgYeQDZiLMTskP2_cpT3zvOZYvbuXnAsUfpUnOMEL/s1600/P3070156.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoXn2yIer32plj8doY0tJBhF2mI0ElTcn2Ebr34A_Dq58ZzZu_Uuds1jdFU_4Ny43tW9pVE-ruHrZW3lSWmpwLpJLE7qej7BuP1YRBgYeQDZiLMTskP2_cpT3zvOZYvbuXnAsUfpUnOMEL/s1600/P3070156.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gH78CZgIJyg/UyL5s7IGthI/AAAAAAAANIg/AdKMNKFJMtU/s1600/20140307_094827.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gH78CZgIJyg/UyL5s7IGthI/AAAAAAAANIg/AdKMNKFJMtU/s1600/20140307_094827.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tFbRVYyLmKo/UyL5skIwZjI/AAAAAAAANIk/S7kn3ZbVqPs/s1600/20140307_102909.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tFbRVYyLmKo/UyL5skIwZjI/AAAAAAAANIk/S7kn3ZbVqPs/s1600/20140307_102909.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhS5ZqemGeFPvhpVqCs_7eBX8UWPHaNET3l_Te10q2z1v86U31-SKFe1jmRgV19KSYfoX0yg3fFUj86y27g0BEtahlg5OPjniHfm2unUpN_Az_QJuNKvhMi_1quoeO2iG-kjKrjKqG3Uap/s1600/20140307_103857.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhS5ZqemGeFPvhpVqCs_7eBX8UWPHaNET3l_Te10q2z1v86U31-SKFe1jmRgV19KSYfoX0yg3fFUj86y27g0BEtahlg5OPjniHfm2unUpN_Az_QJuNKvhMi_1quoeO2iG-kjKrjKqG3Uap/s1600/20140307_103857.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGsRLBy2-S8eaF-t1DYx71gffmjs3tbbsF8oj57W2V0McEYEvKkRXTbzXFF7wLJ8Q2oKxeq3kyCz9wosWyTYWphUuQcSofFqTLU_gmLR2uemiosB42titegL5pTNCNAcI1eR0bQoMFU1a4/s1600/20140307_104113.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGsRLBy2-S8eaF-t1DYx71gffmjs3tbbsF8oj57W2V0McEYEvKkRXTbzXFF7wLJ8Q2oKxeq3kyCz9wosWyTYWphUuQcSofFqTLU_gmLR2uemiosB42titegL5pTNCNAcI1eR0bQoMFU1a4/s1600/20140307_104113.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjcgQ7RWK4lcuTaGJwBCr7vZsMJ44oXLZXgRZrFClQZrnIdmcQ98QPI8k5HFlAtjOm3LqrYc0x_zRbsDGWuLBQqMsn1nb5avP0Ov79Xl4qVN4SSk2ifrFBLSW10C_HJJLW4By2bw50guqE/s1600/20140307_110611.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjcgQ7RWK4lcuTaGJwBCr7vZsMJ44oXLZXgRZrFClQZrnIdmcQ98QPI8k5HFlAtjOm3LqrYc0x_zRbsDGWuLBQqMsn1nb5avP0Ov79Xl4qVN4SSk2ifrFBLSW10C_HJJLW4By2bw50guqE/s1600/20140307_110611.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ec-awNMB61w/UyL5zUd--iI/AAAAAAAANJE/EipiejihvWw/s1600/20140307_104650.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-C2ERz85TUuQ/UyL6CuKrKEI/AAAAAAAANJk/ZSYwYt5zOWI/s1600/P3070162.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-C2ERz85TUuQ/UyL6CuKrKEI/AAAAAAAANJk/ZSYwYt5zOWI/s1600/P3070162.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yEX0CzxFuX4/UyL6IHUmETI/AAAAAAAANJs/78VcPqw2HBk/s1600/P3070166.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yEX0CzxFuX4/UyL6IHUmETI/AAAAAAAANJs/78VcPqw2HBk/s1600/P3070166.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-z4vbzUB0LB0/UyL6SKh97VI/AAAAAAAANKA/p90I03rixNk/s1600/P3070167.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-z4vbzUB0LB0/UyL6SKh97VI/AAAAAAAANKA/p90I03rixNk/s1600/P3070167.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-toE0cJO7sJg/UyL6ScZKwXI/AAAAAAAANJ8/dS-obLs5o2I/s1600/P3070177.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-toE0cJO7sJg/UyL6ScZKwXI/AAAAAAAANJ8/dS-obLs5o2I/s1600/P3070177.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aESDq885Jsg/UyL6QtWF0dI/AAAAAAAANJ0/KWyJjkWAF8A/s1600/P3070170.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aESDq885Jsg/UyL6QtWF0dI/AAAAAAAANJ0/KWyJjkWAF8A/s1600/P3070170.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />Scotthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13436440799835611081noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3091682651320741192.post-61022090169864752702014-01-30T02:23:00.000-05:002014-01-30T09:30:25.319-05:00Windy Winter Waumbek....in the dark!<br />
I've been watching the days go by for the month of January wanting to get one last hike in but with the way work has been with long days and weekend commitments otherwise there was one option left. Might as well burn the midnight oil instead!<br />
<br />
Left work at 3:30p, headed home to change, heat up soup for the thermos and grab my gear and I was on my way by 4p for Jefferson NH some 3 hours away. I couldn't drive up to the trail head parking and trust my I was getting a little pissed that it could have been all for nothing and remembered the small lot down by the country store checking in with them first to make sure I was in the right spot and okay to park there (never needed the winter lot before). Jackpot! On went the microspikes and other items of warmth and of course headlamp #1 for the first leg of the trip or as far as the batteries would last. In my back I had my Petzl MYO RXP with fresh batteries and a spare set ready to go as well as yet another set of batteries for the smaller Black Diamond that was in use now. Took a quick photo at the Starr King trail to share with friends to let them know I was on trail at about 6:50p.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK177erULAbDC0j0NFHS7Ztffoq7i5kcSoHnj1adaFpap6CiQUB_N3aNgTk76Naocyq9DLjF_Ajg9i3oMM7MKctKd6L1g4zW67Rt62BCuCl0z2VCbYyDxMHYuv8wWVHoAE7mRFppH8WJSm/s1600/20140129_190313.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK177erULAbDC0j0NFHS7Ztffoq7i5kcSoHnj1adaFpap6CiQUB_N3aNgTk76Naocyq9DLjF_Ajg9i3oMM7MKctKd6L1g4zW67Rt62BCuCl0z2VCbYyDxMHYuv8wWVHoAE7mRFppH8WJSm/s1600/20140129_190313.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
Trail Conditions were excellent and easy to follow, looked like someone had gone through earlier in the day with a pup but with the winds picking up everything was getting drifted. Ice was at a minimum other nearby the water crossings all frozen over and easily crossed taking no time at all to get to the corner where the terrain changes. Breaks were at a minimum with zero or minus temps with wind slicing through the trees on occasion but moving the tops of the trees above easily. Thinking of nothing along the way but let's get to Starr King and evaluate from there how cold it is, how do you feel, snow drifts and so on. It always feels like forever going around to the other side of Mt. Starr King before arriving I hit blue ice and lots of it maybe 3/10 of a mile and couldn't believe one of my Micros wasn't gripping in finding the closest tree to knock the accumulated snow/ice off and continue on. Still wasn't working so well and knowing I was just below the Starr King Chimney a further evaluation would be made to find out what was going on. Yup just as I had thought one micro was on inside out which was only going to bite into the sole of my boot! Switched that around and cleared out the debris building in the other, grabbed a few chunks of cheese & pepperoni and the wind meter but by this time my hands were freezing almost instantly, with a reading ranging between -15 & -20 I could see why! Switch headlamps, put my windbreaker and Gortex gloves on and time to get moving for 1 mile away awaits the summit of Mt. Waumbek.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wPFJHupMgEA/UupaM-WfPEI/AAAAAAAANFA/TfPFYVGjAeY/s1600/20140129_210347.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wPFJHupMgEA/UupaM-WfPEI/AAAAAAAANFA/TfPFYVGjAeY/s1600/20140129_210347.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
Starr King Summit really is in there<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-p2h-F1eeJfU/UupaP47pRiI/AAAAAAAANFU/cKN1VUGC8xw/s1600/20140129_210631.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-p2h-F1eeJfU/UupaP47pRiI/AAAAAAAANFU/cKN1VUGC8xw/s1600/20140129_210631.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
It really was cold, no good pictures tonight.<br />
<br />
The walk between the chimney and Waumbek is one of my favorites reminding me of walking through one of the local parks in Keene, the snow making it beautiful as always. Halfway however I wanted to conserve a small amount of weight by leaving my pack to hang in a tree, grabbing the backup set of batteries for the headlamp in search of the summit pile of rocks. Arriving pretty quickly and my hands still not quite warming up I decided to forego a picture rather tap it, turn and start to get into a slow jog back to my pack and then see if I could keep that same pace up for a majority of the way to the chimney. <br />
<br />
Back at the chimney and seeing the time which wasn't as late as originally thought, had a few bites of an Alpine Dark Chocolate w/Hazelnuts bar and tried a sip of my soup that was still scalding hot then it was time to get myself down 2.6 miles as quickly as possible. This didn't seem to be too much of a problem with a good quick pace and even jogging some of the way, those that know me are well aware of the fact that I don't jog/run well but there is a small video at the end if anyone wants to see. Amazing how much of the lights you can see of the towns below in the evening through the trees, even marveled at the starts while I was in the clearing of Starr King Orion's Belt seemingly close enough to almost reach out and grab a hold of.<br />
<br />
Approaching the old well to my left I was relieved knowing the short distance left before changing out of these cold, frozen clothing into an awaiting pair of jeans, hoodie and fresh socks! Time was just shy of 10:30p Mt. Waumbek was in the books for the 5th time overall, 2nd time since knee replacement and best off all my goal for the month of January was to complete a 30th peak for my grid which I'm happy to say was accomplished!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-S7yz1ybDqIY/UupaORyzA2I/AAAAAAAANFw/UeZvZQED7aA/s1600/20140129_214018.mp4" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-S7yz1ybDqIY/UupaORyzA2I/AAAAAAAANFw/UeZvZQED7aA/s1600/20140129_214018.mp4" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Scotthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13436440799835611081noreply@blogger.com1Starr King Road, Jefferson, NH 03583, USA44.4180299 -71.46847400000001544.4166124 -71.470995500000015 44.4194474 -71.465952500000014tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3091682651320741192.post-71650994778409715622014-01-19T12:32:00.000-05:002014-01-19T12:32:01.285-05:00Classic Franconia Ridge Loop<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bsn-T1tqRmg/UttE1FHKAfI/AAAAAAAAM3M/jEmfjs-m1Lw/s1600/20140118_120659.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bsn-T1tqRmg/UttE1FHKAfI/AAAAAAAAM3M/jEmfjs-m1Lw/s1600/20140118_120659.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
It felt like forever and a day that I'd been above treeline, the last being Moosilaukee back in early <a href="http://nhithikers.blogspot.com/2013/11/the-trail-to-recovery-and-summit-of.html" target="_blank">November 2013</a>. The original plan was to grab Mt. Liberty and Mt. Flume but I couldn't get the Ridge out of my head as I continued north up I-93, sent out a few messages informing of the change in plans and I was set for my favorite peaks and hopeful views that come with it.<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
First car in the Falling Waters parking lot at 6:20am, I find in my recovery that I need to start early and allow as much daylight as possible, headlamp in the morning always seems better than a headlamp at night. Microspikes right from the start and wouldn't you know it they would stay on all day, heading up the Falling Waters trail for the first time (I'd been down it once before) treated to numerous waterfalls unfrozen and rushing at will. As the sun came up I could see blue skies from above increasing to show itself through the snow/ice covered branches, I'm sure my smile was increasing too! I had remembered the larger falls from the last time I came through, temps drop at least 15 degrees through here, today was no different but thankfully I was moving a pretty good pace stopping briefly for a couple of pictures.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Coowm89y2X0/Uts_Z87Yw6I/AAAAAAAAMuI/Bn1ZqDzaeKs/s1600/20140118_071201.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Coowm89y2X0/Uts_Z87Yw6I/AAAAAAAAMuI/Bn1ZqDzaeKs/s1600/20140118_071201.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-R4LiUq7lJxY/UttAACNHCuI/AAAAAAAAMvA/WPnIJFh-oZM/s1600/20140118_071535.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-R4LiUq7lJxY/UttAACNHCuI/AAAAAAAAMvA/WPnIJFh-oZM/s1600/20140118_071535.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div>
I felt I was making pretty good time, used the ice axe a bit as a single pole and also to gain a little extra traction in some areas. Just below the Shining Rock junction my left calf felt like it had cramped up, sheer pain when attempting to straighten it out. Taking a couple of minutes to stretch, evaluate if I could continue on or turn around making the decision to get to Little Haystack and see how it felt since I was so close to popping out above treeline. The views were incredible 360 degrees with blue skies, some cloud cover but you could see forever with little wind at the time.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyf4THObei0bXMOmA6-iaIiQoY_dHlG_9TtHxpR1uFebkkQhy5IDFeQmnkKq_DKNbImjNt1gsHV6MtzQwhxYe1tzv8v84tSjvA-ZPiB8OMYgFWfxTeqdenn9wdyTLleYL5S4gLBu0TVCri/s1600/20140118_090935.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyf4THObei0bXMOmA6-iaIiQoY_dHlG_9TtHxpR1uFebkkQhy5IDFeQmnkKq_DKNbImjNt1gsHV6MtzQwhxYe1tzv8v84tSjvA-ZPiB8OMYgFWfxTeqdenn9wdyTLleYL5S4gLBu0TVCri/s1600/20140118_090935.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgicGQg4DWgpP6YcKfLI4VrarW2w_O2wjKbIuVcxZdI9p4Ib9scaWi1x8vbdzdMb-Aq_wb2BhOb9PSoa2x8cqYHt-lIWJ3z2wcEUJlLm4YZlW55lmCVnhBTgAD9oP1HJnn1eLQn1R3DZiWk/s1600/20140118_091725.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgicGQg4DWgpP6YcKfLI4VrarW2w_O2wjKbIuVcxZdI9p4Ib9scaWi1x8vbdzdMb-Aq_wb2BhOb9PSoa2x8cqYHt-lIWJ3z2wcEUJlLm4YZlW55lmCVnhBTgAD9oP1HJnn1eLQn1R3DZiWk/s1600/20140118_091725.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ck20p0e5Dxo/UttAvVKIJnI/AAAAAAAAMwY/ZuN_GOPSEvk/s1600/20140118_091807.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ck20p0e5Dxo/UttAvVKIJnI/AAAAAAAAMwY/ZuN_GOPSEvk/s1600/20140118_091807.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AFBWh4WxW_c/UttA3g2OSGI/AAAAAAAAMwo/ivy0bVxqNkw/s1600/20140118_091957.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AFBWh4WxW_c/UttA3g2OSGI/AAAAAAAAMwo/ivy0bVxqNkw/s1600/20140118_091957.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
After admiring for 15 minutes I decided my calf would allow me to continue if I was cautious along the way. Winds were picking up so I switched hats to my North Face Windwall and Outdoor Research windbreaker to stay warm. The Gargoyles were beautiful covered in ice glistening with the sun beating down, I remember making my way out to that once before years back, what fun. Now I agree a friend or mine who has mentioned he'd done the same thing wondering "What was I thinking?" The next ascent to Mt. Lincoln brought me a couple of breaks along the way for various reasons such as gawking at views, resting my legs and just catching my breath. About half way up I noticed other hikers for the first time on the day, making me want to get to the summit a little quicker to have it all to myself knowing that once I got to Lafayette I was certain I'd start running into others. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Snap a couple of photos from Lincoln then on my way to Lafayette where I would run into Pepper and Me (John) and also 2 that were heading all the way out over North Twin (checking NETC I see they accomplished their goal). As we all went our ways continuing my turtle pace taking in my surroundings and views afforded to me on this great day I was also wondering how the descent was going to feel. The last incline took me a couple of extra minutes trudging through the wind drifted snow even in the footprints of the hikers that had passed me were filling in. Once I got over that last hump I found the summit to myself! I took a few pictures then sat down to eat a quick Ham & Cheese wrap huddled out of the wind but still overlooking Cannon Mt. About 10 minutes passed a hiker (Steve) arrived and we chatted for a bit in disbelief of the views and conditions on the day when a snow storm was moving in later in the day.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRpJS61WjekC9DrI2anMrIba0PLDcbVFMkGARfTqiAPNEudYpmZWRWWiaf-cpIlXdceh2RJoHNCJjwrs5xUh9OdyLcAFpJ0gGjwxuwSr4Vwz0s78TaYe_45ScEvCPkOY8iHJJLFwSERPlb/s1600/20140118_105051.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRpJS61WjekC9DrI2anMrIba0PLDcbVFMkGARfTqiAPNEudYpmZWRWWiaf-cpIlXdceh2RJoHNCJjwrs5xUh9OdyLcAFpJ0gGjwxuwSr4Vwz0s78TaYe_45ScEvCPkOY8iHJJLFwSERPlb/s1600/20140118_105051.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fR_vjcCY7HM/UttDpVAdENI/AAAAAAAAM2M/qqSUWT0t_nE/s1600/20140118_111218.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fR_vjcCY7HM/UttDpVAdENI/AAAAAAAAM2M/qqSUWT0t_nE/s1600/20140118_111218.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Grabbing my pack and readying for the next 1.1 miles to Greenleaf Hut which in non-snow time can be difficult in either direction but today it felt like a smooth highway, well packed and not slippery at all making it a pretty quick walk. This is when we'd start seeing other hikers, must have been close to 2 dozen in various group sizes going for both Lafayette itself or continuing to Lincoln and down Falling Waters. Reaching the Hut and looking back up to where we had just come down from the summits were in and out of the small clouds but blue skies remain and warmer temps. Took off a couple of layers and a couple more pictures, good conversation with a group of kids that had made the journey down from Sherbrooke QC for their first 4K. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Old Bridle Path I'd never gone down, have to say the Agonies were much easier this direction :) Surprisingly there was not a lot of ice to be found which I expected to be everywhere, quick trip down through the steeps and outlooks were still giving incredible scenery making have to stop for more pictures along the way.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGVmLpm7ayk4zbQMgtDYrhiRjq4Oqt4T-xQpc5kL2f4l65E_jaCjslO-FXyQ5B6snSS5gNEeyLtZcG5F_LNCpIf6_TIgxhHyJr1bUNmsnIbocAi1-zJnEFlknx2rY3JpL0RjFdNwHBX_iz/s1600/20140118_123618.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGVmLpm7ayk4zbQMgtDYrhiRjq4Oqt4T-xQpc5kL2f4l65E_jaCjslO-FXyQ5B6snSS5gNEeyLtZcG5F_LNCpIf6_TIgxhHyJr1bUNmsnIbocAi1-zJnEFlknx2rY3JpL0RjFdNwHBX_iz/s1600/20140118_123618.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DDQYnpf2l5E/UttGl6XuqII/AAAAAAAAM4c/ObXNO2PH65Q/s1600/20140118_123633.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DDQYnpf2l5E/UttGl6XuqII/AAAAAAAAM4c/ObXNO2PH65Q/s1600/20140118_123633.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Shortly after the majority of the steep sections were done, I decided I needed to take a longer break and not wanting to hold Steve back I thanked him for allowing me to tag along for awhile. Wasn't long until I was back on my way and back to the parking lot. Wasting no time changing out of my boots and into dry clothing packing gear into the car and retracing the day in my head. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Still not where I was prior to surgery but I'm feeling more confident on the trails and higher peaks of NH. Knocking off 2 more peaks for January's Grid (10th time on Lafayette and 9th time on Lincoln), first hike of 2014 and amazing views that can only be seen from Franconia Ridge.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Click here for <a href="https://plus.google.com/photos/108647201959149980866/albums/5970434709208241265?hl=en_US" target="_blank">Pictures</a></div>
Scotthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13436440799835611081noreply@blogger.com0