Skyline Loop via Trailside Museum (w/ Sonya) (Blue Hills Reservation)

Skyline Loop via Trailside Museum (w/ Sonya) (Blue Hills Reservation)

Hike Type: o-o Loop

Distance: 4.62 miles

Elevation: 1,191 feet

Time: 1 hour, 37 minutes
Hiking Challenges: Great Blue Hill Summits

The Hike 

First hike in a minute! I hadn't been hiking much partially because this just happens in the fall with my schedule, but also because any time that I would hike during the week I've been going on dates - which I guess is a net positive, but I'm tired! This day was also Rosh Hashanah - I was supposed to hike Mt. Monadnock with a coworker, but she bailed (I wasn't surprised). Plus, it was raining up in New Hampshire. I ended up sleeping in and going for the Skyline lap. Sarah also texted me about doing a single day Pemi Loop? Is she crazy? (yes, she is, and now I can't stop thinking about it). It was a breezy 65 degrees! I had to pee at the parking lot already but there was a big group forming, so I blasted off. 

The smell of the woods brought me back to life right away - I missed it. I climbed up Eliot Path and crossed the road - I noticed some new graffiti in the little hollow before the road. It felt like a summer morning as I continued up to the summit of Great Blue Hills. There were trucks at the gravel path getting ready to do something with one of the communication towers. I continued up and over Wolcott Hill, where there was a wonderful breeze in Downtown Crossing. More wonderful breezes were to be felt on Hancock, and then I saw three horses at the stables on Hillside Street! They were in seperate enclosures as folks worked on the stables.

I was again humbled by Houghton, but also less humbled than usual. It was a little buggy between the two streams, and I passed the large group of parking lot people at the sharp turn just before the headwall push. I was fighting for air, but not totally gassed at that last climb, and had to lengthen my hike slightly due to the gravel path being closed for the communication tower work. I hit the top and descended via the ski trails - I am so excited for ski season.

Step-by-Step

- Start hike from Trailside Museum parking on Eliot Path (red dots).

- At terminus, turn right onto Eliot Circle. 

- At next jct., turn left onto Summit Road.

- At next jct., turn right onto spur trail to Summit.

- Hike around observatory building clockwise.

- Follow gravel path to Skyline Trail.

- At terminus, turn left onto Skyline Trail.

- Descend summit towards Skyline Trail South.

- Turn left onto Skyline Trail, and then right onto Skyline Trail North.

- At Hillside St., turn right onto Hillside St.

- After stables, turn right onto Skyline Trail South.

- Follow Skyline Trail South to Eliot Circle.

- At Eliot Circle, turn left.

- At gravel path (same as before), turn right to summit Great Blue Hill.

- From summit, descend to ski area.

- Follow Patriots and Sonya down.

- Near bottom turn on Sonya, turn right back onto Eliot Path.

- Retrace steps to parking lot.

Blue Hills Reservation Map

Photo Album

Burns Hill Loop (2x) (Westford Conservation Trust)

Burns Hill Loop (2x) (Westford Conservation Trust)

Hike Type: Lollipop Loop

Distance: 2.64 miles

Elevation: 381 feet

Time: 55 minutes
Hiking Challenges: N/A

The Hike 

Now for something completely different! I enjoyed the Grassy Pond loop from last week, but it was time to try a new trail in Westford. This one I tried last week, but didn't see a parking lot. A friend said to just park on the residential road, so I did! Burns Hill Conservation Area within the Westford Conservation Trust. I went in with my normal clothes on since it was a neighborhood and I didn't feel comfortable changing. The entry path was a little overgrown, but it had a sign and a hard-to-read kiosk. Thankfully, it was super nice out!

The trail crossed a stone wall and continued on, with a few old woods roads around. The trail then crossed a pleasant power cut with a large swampy area on the left (which I would latern learn is the "Heron Roostery," and on the right were rolling hills. After the power cut, the loop officially began.

I turned left and followed the semi-regular but faded yellow blazes, which meandered through the woods. The trail eventually dipped to a rocky low point where there were a good amount of gnats buzzing about, and the trail here was a little tricky to follow. There were some narrow boardwalks and then a ferny area with yellowing birches - probably still due to the drought. The trail crossed another stone wall and then zig zagged up Burns Hill, which had a bench at the "summit" (pretty inconsequential). The loop turns left here, but more trails are on the right.

The trail followed the spine of the ridge back down and then turned sharply with the sound of I-495 present for company. I meandered some more, passing another seasonably wet spot (dry on this day), and noticed a sign for the "Heron Rookery" down a side trail - I had to take it! It led me to a viewpoint of the swampy area that I saw from the power cut - no herons to be seen, though. Lots of beaver evidence!

Back on the loop, I took a second lap since I had plenty of time. I got a little sweatier than expected, but I was just happy to be out and about. My brain was mostly off for lap two, and soon enough I was back at the car! I didn't see a single other human - I will definitely be back!

Step-by-Step

- Start hike at Burns Hill trailhead.

- Cross power cut, turn right at loop split.

- Follow loop two times with optional visit to Heron Roostery.

- When complete, return via power cut.

Burns Hill Map

Photo Album

Skyline Loop via Trailside Museum (w/ Sonya) (Blue Hills Reservation)

Skyline Loop via Trailside Museum (w/ Sonya) (Blue Hills Reservation)

Hike Type: o-o Loop

Distance: 4.45 miles

Elevation: 1,198 feet

Time: 1 hour, 31 minutes
Hiking Challenges: 52 Hike Challenge 2025; Great Blue Hill Summits

The Hike 

First after school hike of the year! I had a wonderfully easy drive, but I did smash my hand on my car door (to be clear, ON my car door, not in my car door), and it hurt... wildly bad? Hmm. It was a super nice day out - overcast at 72 degrees. The air felt dry in the parking lot, but got super humid halfway up - I'm guessing from the recent rain and the flatter area just holds water better. There were some early fall colors on the Eliot Path, but I'm pretty sure they were still just from the drought. I passed one guy who was moving slowly and he said "you'r elike a jet and I'm a single prop," which was very funny. I was also VERY sweaty. 

There were locked porta potties up top, which excited then disappointed me - I've always throught the top just needs porta potties and a water fountain! They're redoing the spur path to Skyline, so it is now closed. I had to descend via the gravel path closer to where the Skyline dips to MA-138. Along Eliot Circle, I noticed some sticks in the ground that read "edge trail" - which I assume meant that the sticks were marking where the eventual edge of the trail would be once work is done. 

On my way down Skyline North, the pines were smelling wonderfully. An older gentleman passed me while running in a polo and jeans as I noticed the blue blazes had been recently touched-up. I took a quick potty break on Hemenway and soon enough I was on Hillside Street - with my whole "trying to date again" thing going on, I have a LOT to think about!

I had my most successful Houghton Hill climb in a while (still flirted with death, but I was feeling stronger than usual). I think I felt so good because I hadn't hiked in a little bit and the horrible warm humidity of summer had finally subsided. Further down the trail, the streams were basically dry and there were a comical amount of mushrooms in that seasonally wet spot between the two streams. 

I also felt pretty strong going up the headwall back to Great Blue Hill, and I enjoyed the smell of wet dirt on my final push - it smelled like fall. I hit the summit and descended via Sonya, which had shockingly clear views from Wachusett, along the entire Wapack Range, and of course, Mt. Monadnock. 

Step-by-Step

- Start hike from Trailside Museum parking on Eliot Path (red dots).

- At terminus, turn right onto Eliot Circle. 

- At next jct., turn left onto Summit Road.

- At next jct., turn right onto spur trail to Summit.

- Hike around observatory building clockwise.

- Follow gravel path to Skyline Trail.

- At terminus, turn left onto Skyline Trail.

- Descend summit towards Skyline Trail South.

- Turn left onto Skyline Trail, and then right onto Skyline Trail North.

- At Hillside St., turn right onto Hillside St.

- After stables, turn right onto Skyline Trail South.

- Follow Skyline Trail South to Eliot Circle.

- At Eliot Circle, turn left.

- At gravel path (same as before), turn right to summit Great Blue Hill.

- From summit, descend to ski area.

- Follow Patriots and Sonya down.

- Near bottom turn on Sonya, turn right back onto Eliot Path.

- Retrace steps to parking lot.

Blue Hills Reservation Map

Photo Album

St. Moritz, Ski Jump, Indian Camp, Sawcut Notch (Blue Hills Reservation)

St. Moritz, Ski Jump, Indian Camp, Sawcut Notch (Blue Hills Reservation)

Hike Type: Tracing Loop

Distance: 5.54 miles

Elevation: 384 feet

Time: 1 hour, 41 minutes
Hiking Challenges: 52 Hike Challenge 2025; Trail Trace the Blue Hills

The Hike 

'Twas the morning after a late-night wedding, I was a bit hungover, and due to attempting to find love in this world, I was also feeling a bit anxious - definitely time for a hike! This would be my first tracing hike in a WHILE. I decided to tackle some of the Quincy sections of the Blue Hills - with the main goal finishing up the St. Moritz Ponds area and getting over to the power/gas plant (whichever it is). It was a WARM 78 degrees and I was met at the trailhead with a MASSIVE (30+ people) foraging group.

I started by hiking around the Shea Rink and past the abandoned ball fields. The St. Moritz Ponds were mostly lily pads and it smelled very much like "lake." I had to swim upstream against the foragers, which was frustrating. When I crossed the bridge on Minichiello Path I noticed the water level was about two feet below the wood, which is in stark contrast to when it was flooded last spring (or two springs ago? time is weird!). 

I hiked the network of trails between the Murphy Path and Pipe Line, got SWEATING from the humidity, and eventually began to follow the green blazes across Wampatuck Road and then Indian Camp Path. There was an occasional breeze that would slightly bring me back to life, but I was not feeling my best! Once on the far side of the Quincy area, I found a least a bajillion mushrooms - the foragers were missing out!

I wiggled my way over to the power/gas plant - the usually horribly wet spot was bone dry! There were folks working at the plant, which was awkward, but we paid no mind to each other as I hiked on by. I passed by some enthusiastic golfers, who scared the life out of me, passed a few people in Sawcut Notch, and got my one and only bug bite near the Old Furnace Brook Path. 

Once back in the St. Moritz area, naturally I found myself trapped behind the foragers again. I took the Firepit Path back to aovid them, and still ended up getting stuck behind them at the very end - boo!

My hike ended, I went home and showered, but I was still feeling extremely anxious about the dating game and love life and probably being 30 years old, so I had what I call "my great crashout" - I walked to Target, bought a journal and many pens, and continued to walk to the Arboretum and wrote for HOURS. It unfortunately felt very good and helped me 1) clear my head, 2) start to sort out my feelings, and 3) kind of look for insights and connections to other times I've felt this way. It's annoying when self-care works!

Step-by-Step

- Part at Shea Memorial Rink.

- Walk to other side of Rink and start hike on path.

- At jct., continue onto Winter Carnival Path.

- At terminus, continue onto Minichiello Path.

- At Pipe Line, continue onto Ski Jump Path.

- At terminus, turn right onto Murphy Path.

- At terminus, turn right onto Pipe Line.

- After 4205, turn right onto Obbatinewat Path.

- At terminus, turn right onto Murphy Path.

- At jct., turn right onto Ski Jump Path.

- At 4205, turn right onto Pipe Line.

- At 4202, turn right onto Murphy Path.

- At jct., turn right onto Obbatinewat Path.

- At terminus, turn right onto Pipe Line.

- Cross Wampatuck Road, continue on Pipe Line.

- At 4135, turn right onto Indian Camp Path.

- At 4091, turn left onto Crags Foot Path.

- At 4066, turn right onto Pipe Line.

- At terminus, turn left onto Sawcut Notch Path.

- Cross Wampatuck Road, continue onto Skyline Trail.

- At jct. after 4220, turn right onto Firepit Path.

- At terminus, turn left onto Minichiello Path.

- Follow green blazes back to car.

Blue Hills Reservation Map

Photo Album

Grassy Pond Lifecourse & Trail (Westford Conservation Trust)

Grassy Pond Lifecourse & Trail (Westford Conservation Trust)

Hike Type: Figure 8 Loop with Spurs

Distance: 1.57 miles

Elevation: 36 feet

Time: 33 minutes
Hiking Challenges: 52 Hike Challenge 2025

The Hike

Time for something completely different! I simply needed SOMETHING to do between the end of my school day and marching band, so I drove out to Westford in search for that something... I tried a few parks/trailheads I saw on Google and AllTrails, and after some strikeouts (either due to no parking lots or grown-in trails), I landed at Grassy Pond. I couldn't find much information about it online, and the trailhead kiosk didn't have much either, so it was time to wander!

It looked like there was a main trail around the pond and two bonus loops with a few extra spurs to roads. I decided to hike around the pond in the clockwise direction - which had wonderfully soft pine-needle footing. Most of this loop is also a "lifecourse" trail with different exercise stations scattered about. At the far end of the pond, I took the bonus loop, which kind of turned it into a figure-8. There were a couple spur paths to roads that I also took, just to keep moving. 

I passed an old white pine tree (labeled as such) and saw one person with his dogs - I was grateful to only see one person on my little excusion. I eventually did find an online map which showed fewer spur paths than were actually on the trail. I passed a really neat mushroom, continued past the parking lot, and then hit the lifecourse loop before returning to my car. It wasn't a very active hike, but it was nice to move my body! I would come back!

Step-by-Step

- Start hike from parking lot around Grassy Pond traveling clockwise.

- Trail joins the Lifecourse Trail, continue straight.

- At second jct., turn left to do upper loop.

- Hike spurs to roads.

- On original loop trail, continue traveling clockwise around pond.

- At the parking area, continue to travel clockwise, repeating some trail.

- When Lifecourse Trail joins, turn sharply left.

- Follow Lifecourse Trail back to car.

Map of Grassy Pond

Photo Album

North, Middle, & South Tripyramid via Livermore South (White Mountain National Forest)

North, Middle, & South Tripyramid via Livermore South (White Mountain National Forest)

Hike Type: Lollipop Loop

Distance: 11.16 miles

Elevation: 2,956 feet

Time: 4 hours, 57 minutes (4 hours, 32 minutes moving)
Hiking Challenges: New Hampshire 4000-Footers, 52 Hike Challenge 2025; Terrifying 25

The Hike

Final hike of my summer and Labor Day weekend! Emma was in full recovery mode and I had to make my way back to Boston, so I decided as a part of my "Farewell Tour" to hike the Tripyramids again, but this time via the slides! I had said I didn't want to tackle the slides by myself, but I was feeling pretty confident in my strength and... confidence. I was out the door at 3:20am from Emma's apartment in northern Vermont and started my journey down "south." I passed a fun amount of animals on my drive - three red foxes, a raccoon, a skunk, and possibly a fisher (it was dark and noodle-like). I stopped at the rest area just before crossing into New Hampshire to pee and someone... left a gift... NEXT to the toilet seat. Bummer! I continued on through Franconia Notch and then christened the Dunkin Donuts in Lincoln (of course I got breakfast there, too), and made it to the Livermore South Trailhead just before 6:00am. I initially panicked because I didn't realize it was a day-use fee area, but thankfully they had installed a solar credit card payment kiosk thing. There was one other car and two large privys. It was a chilly 45 degrees out with some yellowing birches (likely because of the draught, not fall), and it was soon time to start my adventure!

[6:09am - Livermore Trail]

Similar to Owl's Head, this hike would be a lot of flat hiking followed by a comical ascent up a slide. The Livermore Trail is a wide, open road with lots of signage for hiking and cross-country skiing/mountain biking. I was chilly!

[6:13am - Livermore Trail/Leaves Forest Protection Area]

[6:16am - Livermore Trail/Greely Ponds Trail jct.]

The trail left the Forest Protection Area of the parking lot and passed an open area with many criss-crossing trails for Waterville Valley - Livermore Trail was the main one. The trail crossed a bridge, passed the Greely Ponds Trail junction, and continued it's gentle meander through the woods - I was almost hoping for some elevation gain to warm myself up! I crossed another bridge over what I believe was the Mad River, and then passed a series of trails I didn't even know existed!

[6:20am - Livermore Trail/Boulder Path jct.]

[6:23am - Livermore Trail/Big Pines Path jct.]

[6:28am - Livermore Trail/Kettle's Path jct.]

First, I passed the Boulder Path, and then after a short ascent, the Big Pines Path. I put a mental pin into the Big Pines Path, which appeared to be a short trail that led to some big pines along the river - if I had energy after my hike I wanted to take a side trip. I enjoyed the reddening (is that a word?) of the giant hobblebush leaves as the Livermore Trail passed the Kettles Path, which was just about 1.0 mile into the hike. The squirrels were extra crazy this morning - basically assaulting me with acorns and other tree nuts. 

[6:45am - Livermore Trail/Norway Rapids Trail jct.]

The road turned, gained some elevation past a clearing on the right, and passed the Norway Rapids Trail (possibly in this order, possibly in a different order, who's to say!). Somewhere in that sequence of events I also finally took off my fleece and had a quick potty break. There was another bridge crossing and I found myself feeling grateful for the wide road because there were no spider webs, but also lamenting the wide road because it was pretty boring. I did pass some nice tree-bound mossy boulders, at least!

[6:52am - Livermore Trail/XC Ski & Mtn. Bike Trails jct.]

I passed a junction with some XC Ski & Mountain Biking Trails. This is where I was starting to feel like I was making progress - only 1.4 miles to the north end of the Mt. Tripyramid Trail! The reputation aside, I was very glad to be getting the longer, boring stretch over with first. The trail followed a nice stream now, with some cascades and a waterhing hole on the left. The road was beginning to narrow (from basically two-lanes to a single lane with grass now), and there were incredibly restricted tree views - the kind that let's you know that there are, in fact, mountains around, but nothing more than that. The road continued to climb pretty easily until the south junction of the Mt. Tripyramid Trail.

[7:00am - Livermore Trail/Mt. Tripyramid Trail (south) jct.]

From the junction, the sign read 2.2 miles to the summit of North Tripyramid, which was crazy considering I'd barely gained any elevation. The whole loop back to this point would be a nice 5.9 miles. I could see the Sandwich Range Wilderness sign down the south trail, just past a water crossing, but I was continuing on Livermore Trail to the north junction for the fun to really begin!

The road felt less-traveled after this point (but still very much a well-traveled road) and I could just begin to make out the peaks through the trees. There was a little washout and then a meadowy clearing on the left - I'm guessing an old logging camp? The road began to climb more moderately, which truly was welcomed as it meant I would have to climb that much less on the slide (which was already going to be PLENTY of climbing). Soon enough, it was time!

[7:20am - Mt. Tripyramid Trail (north)]

I did a quick break at the north Mt. Tripyramid Trail junction. It looked like Livermore Road used to continue straight, but the Livermore Trail turned left for Scaur Ridge. The Mt. Tripyramid Trail turned right. I swapped out my Nalgenes, took a couple hits of pistachios, and I was off!

[7:25am - Mt. Tripyramid Trail/Sandwich Range Wilderness]

The Mt. Tripyramid Trail dipped slightly to cross a brook and then entered the Sandwich Range Wilderness. It was nice to be on a footpath trail now versus an old, gravel road - even if it meant I was now eating spiderwebs. The trail climbed at easy to moderate grades while paralleling the brook and swimming through patches of hobblebush with just one confusing section. I was feeling concerned that I still hadn't climbed much... I then passed a dry drainage that I thought could actually be the base of the slide, but just a little bit further down the trail is where I turned right and was CLEARLY at the base of the slide... here we go!

[7:40am - Mt. Tripyramid Trail/Base of Slide]

I was nervous but mostly excited to tackle this climb. It IMMEDIATELY became steep, but fun! I caught up to one strange person who just kind of looked at me, and that was it for people for a while! The more I climbed/scrambled, the more views behind began to appear, and they were truly wonderful. The "trail" was delightfully dry, and sometimes there was a gravelly trail to the left of the slide proper - not sure which is "official."

The views continued to increase, first towards Osceola, which was just beautiufl to see. My notes read: "this shit is crazy" - I had a few spots where I felt nervous, but I would just turn off the fight or flight and be intentional about my hand and foot placements. 

Views over towards Mt. Tecumseh and Waterville Valley began to appear as my adrenaline was pumping. I was really having fun! I just wish there were ANY blazes or cairns, but I guess that's part of the beauty of being in a wilderness area. I could also now see Moosilauke behind Osceola. It was really cool to see the entire Osceola complex in it's entirety. 

I passed a super faded blaze and then hit a woodsy stretch - I made the decision here to save my summit beverage until I was back on Livermore Trail becuase this was wild, and even though I knew the south slide would be easier, I didn't want to tempt fate. Once back on the slabs, the view was yet again even more incredible. The Kinsmans and Franconias were now added to the vista, along with part of Mt. Carrigain. It was also such a perfectly beautiful day, too. I was simply in awe. It was also fun to be hiking these mountains in a DRASTICALLY different fashion than the last time (when I did Pine Bend-Sabbaday). 

Higher up again, I could now see the Presidential Range with crystal clear skies - just amazing! I did begin to have a bit less fun near the top, as the "trail" conditions pivoted from slabs to a loose, gravelley mess. Thankfully, it wasn't as steep (still very steep) and any slips were stopped by a solid rock. I wouldn't want to be below anybody, though.

[8:22am - Mt. Tripyramid Trial/Top of Slide]

The Mt. Tripyramid Trail continued to a cairn at the tree line - I did it! This was a really nice moment for me, as this was a trail I was scared to do for a long time. It was seriously fun and only a little terrifying - I would absolutely come back on a day as nice as this one! From here, the trail turned left into the woods and continued to steeply climb. 

[8:28am - Mt. Tripyramid Trail/Pine Bend Brook jct.]

This stretch was more reminiscent of the Pine Bend Brook Trail's final push, which made complete sense. I FINALLY found the sun just before the junction with Pine Bend Brook Trail, and boy did the sun feel amazing. There were a few flies buzzing about, but they were leaving me alone. I hit the junction, turned right, and was soon at the top of North Tripyramid!

[8:32am - Mt. Tripyramid Trail/North Tripyramid Summit]

I stopped at the top for a water break and to wring out my shirt, which was well inundated with sweat. The viewpoint was basically grown-in, but I could make out Mt. Passaconaway and other smaller peaks, kind of. I wasn't hungry for my breakfast sandwich yet, so I continued on. 

The Mt. Tripyramid and Pine Bend Brook Trails were coinciding now and descended steeply. I was medium chilly now, but I was okay as long as I kept my pace up. The woods on this ridge were absolutely beautiful, even through a few well-maintained blowdown patches. There were now a criminal amount of flies, but thankfully they continued to leave me alone. 

[8:42am - Mt. Tripyramid Trail/Sabbaday Brook Trail jct.]

I was soon at the junction with the Sabbaday Brook Trail, which also served as the terminus of the Pine Bend Brook Trail. I continued on the Mt. Tripyramid Trail up to the middle peak, which had my legs burning (in fairness, I was also moving quickly). 

[8:52am - Mt. Tripyramid Trail/Middle Tripyramid Summit]

I made it to the top of Middle Tripyramid, was talking to myself, and naturally spooked a guy who was lounging in his hammock... whoops! I didn't stick around for long on the middle peak, partially because there was a person, partially because the views felt even more grown-in than the last time I was up here, and partially because I had summit fever for the south peak!

There was an initial scramble on the descent and then the trail mellowed out in more beautiful woods. The trail meandered along the ridge and contined to descent with tree views ahead to the south peak. The col between the middle and south peaks was a little grown-in, but the footbed was easy to follow. There was a wildly strong scent of urine as I left the col - a bear? moose? human? unsure - and then the climb went right from moderate to steep. 

[9:06am - Mt. Tripyramid Trail/South Tripyramid Summit]

I passed a really excellent "peek-a-view" back to Middle Tripyramid on the climb, followed by some more tree views to both North and Middle. The climb up to the south peak was the easiest of the three (naturally), and the summit was just a wooded ridge - super pretty though! The summit was either along the ridge or where the trail turns at the end of the ridge - there were little cairns in both places and a little peek-a-view to Mt. Whiteface and the Sleepers.

After turning right, the trail officially begins to descend. There was a little peek-a-view to Mt. Whiteface and the Sleepers. The initial descent wasn't too bad but it quickly became more steep and eroded. Soon, the trees open up to the top of the south slide and there's a great views of Sandwich Mountain and Jennings Peak ahead, and a bit further down I caught a glimpse on the right over to Waterville Valley ski area. 

[9:18am - Mt. Tripyramid Trail/Kate Sleeper Trail jct.]

Behind were the Belknaps and Lake Winnipesauke, and I could also make out Welch-Dickey. Just a beautiful, unique view! The Kate Sleeper Trail turns left partway down the upper slide, and then the rest of the slide was... unpleasant. Super rocky and gravelley. I looked at rock the wrong way and it fell at least 50 feet! This upper stretch soon dips back into the woods, but the fun is not over yet! It slightly opens up again before diagonally crossing a confusing slab with smaller views, and then it opens up to another great view of Sandwich Mountain with brutal footing. The trail passed a decently large boulder that looked ready to roll at the next big rain, too. 

The trail narrowed and then opened yet again, offering the best view of the Mt. Tecumseh complex. It looked like at some point someone may have tried to lay down rock steps, but it was pretty eroded away at this point. The trail eventually descended back into the woods, maintaining the steep pitch, but with more sufferable footing, which led to a walking break, which was actually the end of the slide! Horray!

It was a DREAM to be back hiking on stable dirt again! Even the rockier areas felt amazing - such a treat! I collected many spiderwebs in this stretch, but it was worth it to be moving quickly again. Eventually, the trail neared a brook and crossed a lovely stream with many cascades down below on the left. The last bit of trail did feel a bit never-ending, but again, it was so much nicer on the legs. The trail continued to cross a few streams/drainages and undulated about, my achilles were mad but my extensors were good, and eventually, I saw the sign! 

[10:15am - Mt. Tripyramid Trail/Departs Sandwich Range Wilderness]

[10:16am - Livermore Trail]

I left the Sandwich Range Wilderness, crossed a brook, and continued onto the Livermore Trail, enjoying a sandwich and a Sun Cruiser - I was feeling good and accomplished! I began to pass many, many people once on the Livermore Trail. I was thrilled to be civilized hiking, as it was a nice way to pass time on this less-exciting bit of trail. I passed at least 20 people, one of which was loudly listening to conservative talk-radio, which was... interesting. 

[10:26am - Livermore Trail/XC Ski & Mtn. Bike Trails jct.]

[10:33am - Livermore Trail/Norway Rapids Trail jct.]

[10:48am - Livermore Trail/Kettle's Path jct.]

[10:53am - Livermore Trail/Big Pines Path jct.]

[10:55am - Livermore Trail/Boulder Path jct.]

[10:58am - Livermore Trail/Greely Ponds Trail jct.]

I passed the long series of side paths over the course of a half hour. I opted to skip all the side paths as my legs were tired and I was starting to get the Sunday Scaries (even though it was a Monday). I was delighted at how un-busy it was for Labor Day, even if I was more or less swimming upstream. There was a 0.1% uphill grade at one point which felt like gravity doubled, but besides that, the reutrn was quick and easy. There were many birds flying around after the Greely Ponds Junction.

[11:01am - Livermore Trail/Departs Forest Protection Area]

[11:06am - End of Hike]

Soon enough, I was deparing the Forest Protection Area and back at the parking lot, which was only half full now! I had an expectedly painful drive home, but the weekend was more than worth it!

Step-by-Step

- Start hike on Livermore Trail from south parking lot.

- At jct., turn right onto Mt. Tripyramid Trail (northern end).

- Climb the North Slide, summit North, Middle, and South Tripyramids, and descend South Tripyramid.

- At terminus, turn left onto Livermore Trail.

- Return to car.

Photo Album

Camel's Hump via Monroe & Alpine Trails (Camel's Hump State Park)

Camel's Hump via Monroe & Alpine Trails (Camel's Hump State Park)

Hike Type: Lollipop Loop

Distance: 7.40 miles

Elevation: 2,657 feet

Time: 5 hours, 32 minutes (4 hours, 17 minutes moving)
Hiking Challenges: Vermont 4000-Footers, Long Trail Side-to-Side, Operation Alaska Benchmark Challenge

The Hike

Happy Labor Day Weekend! Emma and I planned to hike Camel's Hump yesterday, but Vermont decided to rain instead! We spent yesterday in Burlington and pushed Camel's Hump to this last day of August. We had a wedding way over in Newport, VT later that day, so we decided to get up nice and early to leave time for a nap later on. The alarms went off at 3:45am and we made it to the trailhead just before 5:00am. There were two other cars and it was a wonderful 50 degrees out. We could hear an owl and I christened the porta potty! Poor Emma had a wild gas/poop cramp that simply would not pass, hopefully some hiking would help loosen things up!

[5:07am - Start of Hike]

We started our hike by walking to the upper parking lot (closer to the trail - we didn't know it existed!) with our headlamps on. 

[5:10am - Monroe Trail]

Once in the woods, we soon signed the trail register and began our hike on the Monroe Trail. The beginning of the hike was super chill with the faintest light through the trees. The trail easily climbed until the 0.5 mile mark, when it began to moderate, but never to a ridiculous grade. The climbs were alternated with walking breaks, which was lovely. We hiked over three bridges and Emma's gas bubble would NOT budge. We did worry it could have been appendicitis, but thankfully she had a bar of service and her bubble was on the wrong side of her abdomen. 

[5:56am - Monroe Trail/Dean Trail jct.]

More light was beginning to shine through the trees as we arrived at the junction with the Dean Trail - the proposed end of our lollipop loop. A few minutes later at about 6:00am on the dot, the birds started to wake up, and our headlamps came off a few minutes after that (a few more minutes later, Emma finally farted! I already had a point in fart baseball, but I was happy for her). 

We continued to hike and approached a daunting headwall, thankfull the trail never really tackled it too aggressively. There was a slight breeze through the trees, which was just lovely. There were golden, foggy clouds overhead as we began to climb, passing one wet scramble. We were moving slow because of Emma's gas bubble that unfortunately was still hurting her. There were a few views through the trees, which helped energize us!

The trail crossed, followed, and crossed a mossy stream in a really beautiful area before making a sharp turn and climbing more aggressively on some wet slabs (we think this brought us to the top of the headwall we saw before). The trail turned again and soon brought us to a large junction with the Alpine Trail!

[6:59am - Monroe/Alpine Trail jct.]

We did a sit, bathroom, and snack break at this junction. Emma was not feeling great, so we made the decision to alter our route. We originally planned to follow the Alpine Trail northbound to the Long Trail southbound, eventually returning on the Dean Trail. Now, we would turn onto the Alpine Trail southbound and do a much smaller loop over the summit, returning on the Monroe Trail. We enjoyed our leftover pizza as we joked about how crazy it would be if she actually had a burst appendix (spoiler alert, she did not). 

[7:12am - Alpine Trail (south)]

The Alpine Trail was much narrower than the Monroe Trail, but it was a welcome change. I thought it was going to climb pretty aggressively, but it was incredibly manageable. We even saw some ghost pipes! We were only a little disappointed to skip the other half of the Alpine Trail, as there were supposed to be views and a plane crash but...

[7:33am - Alpine Trail/Plane wreckage]

As it turned out, the plane crash was actually on this bit of the Alpine Trail! It was clear as day - just off-trail as the Alpine Trail made a sharp right turn and began to climb. It looked like all that was left of the wreckage was a wing, and it was impressive! The collest plane wreck I've ever seen still remains to be the one near Mt. Success, but this was cool! A herd path continued uphill to rejoin the Monroe Trail (not more plane parts).

The Alpine Trail got a little more rugged the further up we went and we caught a pretty neat view of the hump of Camel's Hump poking over the trees (and through the summit fog, which was will pretty prevalent). We hiked underneath a cool overhanging rock/cliff, and to our surprise and delight, were soon on the Long Trail for our final push!

[7:48am - Long Trail (north)]

Things got fun once on the Long Trail! The trail's character immeditely changed as it simultaneously entered into the Alpine Zone. Footing was very rocky and damp due to the summit fog, but overall grip was solid. We could only kind of see a semblance of the view down below - we were otherwise pretty socked-in. 

Sure, we were bummed to not have any views, but it was cool to see the rugged rock formations through the fog. It was decently windly, but nothing too problematic, and there was one slab that was a little more slippery than the rest. The Long Trail briefly dipped back into the woods before the final push, which was fully above the trees with rocks and string marking the trail. 

At this point, I took off past Emma due to my usual case of summit fever (I could also argue I wanted to get nice photos of her summiting!). There were a few more soft glances at the possibility of a view, but we were pretty much solidly in the clouds, which was FINE. The sun WAS shining, which felt wonderful. Soon enough, we found the two USGS discs up top, and began our celebration!

[8:05am - Camel's Hump Summit]

Of course, climbing any mountain is worth celebrating, but I was especially excited to had climbed this once becuase it completed my Vermont 4000-Footers! We celebrated by hiking up with mini bottles of prosecco and plastic champagne flutes, which was just fun. There was one other couple at the summit - they either illegally camped at the summit or hiked up for sunrise with their tent for shelter. Only issue with them was that they started playing music on their bluetooth speaker after 20ish minutes, which was annoying. 

We had some more snacks and contemplated what on Earth was wrong with Emma's abdomen - could still be gas... maybe!

[8:52am - Long Trail (north)]

Around 8:45am, more and more people started arriving rather rapidly, so we decided to pack it up. The initail descent on the Long Trail was really pretty - even in the fog. We slowly descended into the trees, before descending more steeply to the Monroe Trail. It was my turn for a weird tummy, but I was thinking I'd survive (Emma was feeling a little better descending, but still not great). 

[9:03am - Monroe Trail]

[9:22am - Monroe Trail/Alpine Trail jct.]

[10:08am - Monroe Trail/Dean Trail jct.]

Our descent involved a lot of blabbering at each other and speculating what was wrong with her abdomen (it went through phases of pain). Emma took a solid fall on one of the slabs after the junction with the Alpine Trail, and we passed at least 50 people heading up to the summit on our descent (we couldn't fathom how they'd all fit at the top!). We had to PEE in our last mile, but didn't want to have to get off-trail to pee, so we both suffered, possibly a little too long.

[10:41am - End of Hike]

We started to get excited as the trail leveled out, and then we began to cross the bridges, and then we were back! I sent Emma to the bathroom while I signed us out, and then it was my turn. We had a quick change at the car in the FULL parking lot, and made our way back to her place for a shower, change, and then off to the wedding!

...which we never made it to. Emma was feeling BAD after her nap, so I politely encouraged her to go to the doctor. We spent a little over an hour there, and turns out she had a kidney infection caused by a prior UTI! And she climbed Camel's Hump! She's such a trooper. Instead of  going to the wedding, we got dinner, got Legos, and went home (which I was NOT mad about!)

Step-by-Step

- Start hike on Monroe Trail.

- At jct., turn left onto Alpine Trail (south).

- At terminus, turn right onto Long Trail (north).

- Summit Camel's Hump.

- Continue on Long Trail (north).

- At jct., turn right onto Monroe Trail.

- Follow Monroe Trail back to car.

Map of Camel's Hump State Park

Photo Album

Mt. Monadnock via Harling, Red Spot, & Old Ski (Monadnock State Park)

Mt. Monadnock via Harling, Red Spot, & Old Ski (Monadnock State Park)

Hike Type: O-O Loop

Distance: 6.70 miles

Elevation: 1,847 feet

Time: 3 hours, 57 minutes (3 hours, 15 minutes moving)
Hiking Challenges: Monadnock Redliner (2x)

The Hike

"Oh, Monadnock again?" YES. My friend, Sydney, and I had been planning to hike Mt. Moosilauke together on this date, but the weather said "hmm better not!" - so we pivoted back to my favorite mountain! Happy Labor Day Weekend! Naturally, I proposed we take some trails that I still needed for my second redline. We only wanted to pay for one car, so we dropped Sydney's car at the Gap Mountain south parking lot and carpooled over to Park Headquarters for our adventure! I didn't take any notes on this hike as I wanted to focus on time with my friend, so I'm sure I'll forget some things, but that's okay!

[6:25am - Start of Hike]

Our hike started by walking down Poole Road towards the Hinkley Trail. It was a cloudy and misty morning, so we didn't expect much in terms of views, but we were both happy to be out. Poole Road dips down and then rises easily, past a home on the left, to the Hinkley Trailhead.

[6:31am - Hinkley Trail]

The Hinkley Trail sign is a little hard to see as it's well off the road in the woods, but its followed by yellow blazes and a no-dogs sign. It has a lesser-traveled feel to it, and rambles pretty level with many roots. We rambled about, yapped a ton, and soon came to the Harling Trail.

[6:46am - Harling Trail]

The Harling Trail continues a similar lesser-traveled vibe, but now rises pretty easily, and more steadily toward the end. I don't think it would have caused me much huffing and puffing, but Sydney and I were catching each other up on our summers, and the added yapping took my breath away! The higher we climbed, the closer we came to the clouds, and once on the Cascade Link Trail, we were already in a light fog. 

[7:09am - Cascade Link Trail]

With the fog, the Cascade Link Trail had an ominous, spooky feel to it. It was nice to have the trails to just the two of us! I've gotten really lucky with the crowds these past four (four... oh my goodness) climbs in a row(!). We easily gained more elevation until we hit the Red Spot junction.

[7:21am - Red Spot Trail]

Personally, I was excited to be back on the Red Spot Trail, as it was the first trail I climbed this mountain on and the last time I had been on it was almost 10(!) years ago! The first leg of the red spot trail climbed easily over rocks, and then more moderately... over rock, with a few steeper pushes... over rocks. 

[7:35am - Red Spot Trail/Old Ski Path jct.]

After crossing the junction with the Old Ski Path we continued to climb over... more rocks. There were a few stretches that could be scrambly for some more vertically challenged hikers, but overall it was not overly difficult (and in my opinion, much more enjoyable than either of the white trails on this side of the mountain). Soon, we saw signs identifying cairns and we popped out above the trees fully in a cloud! We were totally soaked at this point from the mist in the air, but having an absolute blast with each other just being goofy!

The wind was blowing and the cloud was pretty dense, but we eventually found outself at the terminus fo the Red Spot Trail at it's famous cairn.

[8:02am - Pumpelly Trail]

Naturally, this led us onto the Pumpelly Trail for our final push 'n scramble. We had to pay closer attention to cairns and P's, since visibility was so limited, but we made it up without any real issue, and to our delight, no one was there! We weren't overly surprised, becuase it was a weekday at 8am in a cloud, but still a nice treat!

[8:15am - Mt. Monadnock Summit]

We layered up and found shelter alongside a rock where we continued to yap, enojy our summit snacks and beverages, and we took a few silly photos with my new magsafe clip-to-your-pack tripod, which was really fun (I was influenced from TikTok). I'm always nervous when hiking with a new friend (Sydney is not a friend that is new, but a friend who I had not hiked with before), but this was such a delight (as it usually is)!

[8:50am - White Dot Trail]

After a long break, it was time to head down. I was starting to get chilly due to being soaking wet, in a cloud, in wind. We started down the White Dot Trail just as a few clouds started to part - so naturally we stopped and stared, but there was no grant reveal tragically. We carefully made it down the wet slabs to the White Cross junction.

[9:01am - White Dot Trail/White Cross Trail jct.]

We continued down the White Dot Trail, which is not the easier way down, because I still needed the Old Ski Path. We carefully made it down the damp scrambles and in a flatter stretch, made it onto the Old Ski Path no problem!

[9:18am - Old Ski Path]

The old ski path was medium grown-in, very wet, and a little slippery, but we traversed without issue and soon were back on the Red Spot Path, completing our upper loop of our O-O loop.

[9:25am - Red Spot Trail]

[9:36am - Cascade Link Trail]

[9:49am - Cascade Link Trail/Harling Trail jct.]

[9:51am - White Dot Trail]

[9:56am - White Dot Trail/White Cross Trail jct.]

The lower stretch of Red Spot was easy and straightforward, and the rest of Cascade Link was even easier and straight forward-er. Only issue we came across was my foot getting caught on a root and ripping my shoe! I feel like this pair of Merrell's are not as strong as my last pair... It's a bummer, but I'm not overly upset, since they're not a waterproof pair and worst case they can just be my Blue Hills shoes. We kept on hiking, eventually making it back onto the White Dot Trail. We passed a red eft after the White Cross junction, and once back near Headquarters, continued on the connector trail to the Parker Trail - the last bit I needed on this side of the mountain!

[10:12am - Parker Trail connector]

The connector path was a lovely, wide, pine-needle filled road. It paralleled the drained reservoir and spat us out on the southern end of the overflow parking lot. I remembered I thought they got rid of the privy in this lot, but it was simply further down than I had thought. We followed the gravel lot to the main lot, and back to the car! We saw so few people on this hike - it was wonderful!

[10:22am - End of Hike]

Back at the car, I did my quick change and then we shuttled back to Sydney's car at Gap Mountain. Naturally, in my head I flirted with hiking up Gap, but I didn't have enough clothes. Next stop for me was Vermont! Emma and I were planning on hiking Camel's Hump tomorrow, go to a wedding on Sunday, and then I would finish my Labor Day Weekend with... something in the Whites!

Step-by-Step

- Start hike by turning right onto Poole Road.

- At jct., turn left onto Hinkley Trail.

- At jct., turn left onto Harling Trail.

- At terminus, turn right onto Cascade Link Trail.

- At jct., turn left onto Red Spot Trail.

- At terminus, turn left onto Pumpelly Trail.

- Summit Mt. Monadnock.

- Descend via White Dot Trail.

- At jct., turn left onto Old Ski Path.

- At terminus, turn right onto Red Spot Trail.

- At terminus, turn right onto Cascade Link Trail.

- At terminus, continue onto White Dot Trail.

- At terminus, continue onto Parker Trail connector along reservoir.

- Loop back to return to car.

Map of Monadnock State Park

Photo Album

Mt. Monadnock via Parker, Lost Farm, Side Foot, & White Arrow (Monadnock State Park)

Mt. Monadnock via Parker, Lost Farm, Side Foot, & White Arrow (Monadnock State Park)

Hike Type: Loop w/ Spurs

Distance: 7.25 miles

Elevation: 2,393 feet

Time: 3 hours, 35 minutes (3 hours, 8 minutes moving)
Hiking Challenges: Monadnock Redliner (2x)

The Hike

Didn't I just hike Monadnock yesterday? Yes. Why am I doing it again, why not! Really, I couldn't make a decision with where I wanted to hike - it was going to be raining up in the Whites and Mt. Greylock was just too far for me at the time (I was having another lazy day). I didn't even make it out the door until 1:00pm! As per usual, I stopped at the Leominster Cumberland Farms for some food and landed at the Old Toll Road trailhead just before 3:00pm. There were no other cars there, which was a delight! It was humid out with temperatures in the mid-70s. My body was feeling tired from the past many days of hiking and my pack was stil a little damp with sweat, but I was happy to be getting out again. 

[3:02pm - Old Toll Road]

I started by hiking up the Old Toll Road towards the Parker Trail. I initially planned this hike clockwise and including Monte Rosa/Mossy Brook, but I decided to go counter clockwise instead to get the longer wooded section out of the way early - and I'm glad I did! A car drove past me and I climbed the Old Toll Road and then I realized I, yet again, completely forgot to lock my car. The air was wildly damp and it looked like a stray shower blew through at some point recently. Thankfully, the skies were now super blue!

The road flattened briefly and then climbed again, past many browning ferns to a yellow blaze on the road which marks the start of the Parker Trail at approximately 0.58 miles, according to my watch.

[3:15pm - Parker Trail]

[3:16pm - Parker Trail/Viewpoint jct.]

I hiked briefly to the height-of-land, past the newly-signed viewpoint junction (I skipped the viewpoint, as my mindset was more on the goal of hiking the trails today versus a scenic hike), and then began the easy descent. The sun was shining wonderfully on the ferns. I also was seeing the most amount of efts I think I'd ever seen! There were many birds out, too.

[3:23pm - Parker Trail/Cliff Walk jct.]

Soon I was at the junction with the Cliff Walk Trail - my eft count was up to four. The trail skirted the edge of a recently logged area, the gnats were out, and the cicadas were buzzing. There was a bridge over dry, mossy stream and then the Parker Trail passed a very large erratic (that, knowing Mt. Monadnock, I'm sure has an official name). I reminisced about the first time I hiked on this trail - it was the first time I ever had to christen the woods of Monadnock State Park! Some more easy descending eventually brought me to the Lost Farm Trail junction.

[3:36pm - Park Trail/Lost Farm Trail jct.]

I added four more efts to my count in that last segement, bringing my total to eight! There was another recently logged area right at the Lost Farm Trail junction, and a sign read:

"Timber Harvest in Progress Along the Parker Trail

The NH State Division of Forest and Lands is conducting a timber harvest on state land just south of the Parker Trail. In two locations it comes close to the trail, you will see it in progress.

Group openings ranging from half to two acres are being established to emulate minor natural disturbances in the forest. This fosters the growth of diverse herbaceous plants and tree saplings, enabling young trees to thrive with ample sunlight, air, and space, enriching the forest ecosystem. It's crucial to recognize that although these forest management actions may temporarily alter the visual landscape, they enhance long-term forest resilience amidst a challenging climate. Additionally, they provide essential habitat elements for the numerous wildlife species inhabiting this area.

For more information on this project and timber harvesting in State Parks and State Forests, contact Project Forester, Tyler Comte at 603-227-8736."

I elected to follow the Parker Trail for the rest of its length, to Park HQ, just in case for future me (future me was thankful!). This stretch of trail was much nicer and I crossed paths with my first two people du jour - they were not friendly. I made it to the bridge crossing at the reservoir outflow, which was fully drained up. There were signs warning hikers to keep out due to crumbling rocks and deep mud - I wonder if the dam is the reason why it's drained? Is it just the drought? Not sure! The perimeter was pretty grown in, so there wasn't much to see in terms of views. 

[3:48pm - Park Trail/State Park HQ]

I turned around at the spur to the parking lot and got emotionally ready to start gaining elevation again! The return to the Lost Farm Trail was not bad at all, but boy was I sweaty from the humidity!

[3:58pm - Lost Farm Trail]

Soon I was on the Lost Farm Trail, caught up to and passed the couple from before, who were hiking in full normal clothes and at least 20 feet apart now... The trail started ascending more moderately with medium-rocky footing paralleling a dry stream on the left. After passing the humans, I started taking a few spiderwebs to the face. There were a few walking breaks intersperced with steep, short climbs. It was enough to take my "very sweaty" and elevate it "totally drenched in sweat."

I did accidentally get off trail at one point, but soon was back on (just a herd path) in a longer flat section that soon transitioned into a rocky, slippery, mossy area. My false memories of the last time I hiked this trail (years ago) told me it was an easier trail! I traversed a medium-level hobblebush grove and was contemplating death, but the trail smelled too nice to call it, so I continued. 

The final push was damp and slippery again and home to ALL the efts! The trail began to open up and get more piney, and then I caught a wonderful view of the Wapack Range just before the Cliff Walk! It was nice to see it front-lit for a change. Just after the view the trail terminated. I saw 13 efts on this stretch, bringing my total to 21!

[4:36pm - Cliff Walk]

[4:37pm - Thoreau Trail]

I had a very short jaunt on the Cliff Walk and soon scrambled up to Thoreau's Seat and then back into the woods to Thoreau Trail. Thoreau Trail was a little confusing to follow in the upper plateau area, but the rest was fine. I did get pine sap on my hand which was a solid bummer... at least it smelled good! There was a wonderful breeze in these woods. 

[4:47pm - Old Halfway House Clearing]

[4:48pm - Sidefoot Trail]

[4:50pm - Sidefoot Trail/Do Drop Trail jct.]

[4:53pm - Sidefoot Trail/Noble Trail jct.]

I was soon at the Old Halfway House Clearing, which was a little grown-in but the view was lovely. I looped back into the woods to start climbing again on the Sidefoot Trail, which had some nice rock steaps with ferns tickling my shins. The climb was steady but not too steep with many rocks and soft needles. I passed the Do Drop and Noble Trail junctions, and forgot to look for the abandoned Hedgehog one. 

Higher up, the rocks and open canoby both increased. I passed my third person of the day in this upper stretch - it was so wonderfully quiet. 

[5:08pm - Sidefoot Trail/Ampitheatre Trail jct.]

I stopped briefly to wring out my shirt for a third time at the Amphitheatre Trail junction, and both trails coincided easily to the White Arrow Trail. I caught some sun for the first time all day on this stretch, and it felt GOOD. I usually climb this mountain in the morning, so it was nice to experience it in the afternoon light. 

[5:10pm - White Arrow Trail]

Time for the final push! I hadn't been on the White Arrow Trail in a LONG time - since pre-COVID, I think. The trail climbed from the Amphitheatre junction to a mostly dry, flat, boggy area with stepping stones. I remember the first time I hiked this trail, in April when I was in college, and I was blown away that there was still snow and ice here!

The climb soon resumed and broke through the trees. It was really fun making this push with "new" views - I'd gotten to used to the views towards the Wapack - it was nice to see something else! The weather above the trees was, dare I say, perfect. I decided to skip the Monte Rosa leg of the hike I had planned just so I could enjoy more time out in the sun. The trail has some trickier/fun scrambles to a false summit, and then a classic Mt. Monadnock "basically just choose your own adventure" to the actual summit area.

[5:28pm - Mt. Monadnock Summit]

The first thing I wrote in my notes for the top said "so f-ing beautiful and actually nobody's up here I'm in awe and in shock," which I think sums it up perfectly. It was such a perfect afternoon, and as we all know from my August hikes, I'd been mentally going through it, so it was so nice to just sit and enjoy nature. I had my strawberry lemon poppi soda again, which was lovely, and eventually 4-ish people did show up, but I just refused to acknowledge they were there. I used my PeakFinder app to see Killington! When I was getting ready to leave I wrote down "definitely skipping Monte Rosa it's too perfect out to work harder haha."

[5:49pm - White Arrow Trail]

After 20ish minutes, I finally started my descent. The sun and weather just felt spectacular. Tragically, the people at the top also started their descent, so they were behind me for most of the trip. The view with the afternoon lighting was just unreal and I was NOT upset that I would "have" to come back to finish up!

[6:02pm - White Arrow Trail/Sidefoot Trail jct.]

I crossed paths with a guy hiking up near the Sidefoot Junction who was playing 80s power ballads out loud, which was a choice! The trail was super rocky, but the footing was not awful and I was able to maintain a decent pace. I could still hear the people behind me, but I couldn't see them so I didn't feel bad.

[6:13pm - White Arrow Trail/Fairy Spring Trail jct.]

I was back to full sweaty Betty status once deep in the woods and I let two faster folks pass me at the Fairy Spring Trail junction - the rest were further behind. I thought again about hitting Monte Rosa, but I maintained it was too nice out to work harder, and I was excited to get home before dark.

[6:16pm - Old Toll Road]

[6:17pm - Old Toll Road/Cart Path jct.]

I leap frogged with the faster two hikers at the Old Toll Road, as they were looking at some turkeys off-trail. My foot was feeling shockingly good, especially for my speedy descent. My hip was a little mad, but that was okay. I crossed paths with one more person on the way down, totally missed the Parker junction, and soon enough, was back at the car and on the way home!

[6:37pm - End of Hike]

Step-by-Step

- Start hike on Old Toll Road.

- At jct., turn right onto Parker Trail.

- At State Park HQ, turn around.

- At jct., turn right onto Lost Farm Trail.

- At terminus, turn right onto Cliff Walk.

- At jct., turn left onto Thoreau Trail.

- From Old Halfway House Clearing, hike to Sidefoot Trail.

- Follow Sidefoot Trail to terminus.

- At terminus, turn right onto White Arrow Trail.

- Summit Mt. Monadnock.

- Descend on White Arrow Trail and Old Toll Road to car.

Map of Monadnock State Park

Photo Album

Mt. Monadnock via Birchtoft, Spellman, White Cross, Harling (Monadnock State Park)

Mt. Monadnock via Birchtoft, Spellman, White Cross, Harling (Monadnock State Park)

Hike Type: Lollipop-Lollipop Loop

Distance: 8.45 miles

Elevation: 2,267 feet

Time: 3 hours, 35 minutes (3 hours, 30 minutes moving)
Hiking Challenges: Monadnock Redliner (2x)

The Hike

I had a day off of hiking due to a friend's birthday birthday and a Jonas Brothers concert (it was INCREDIBLE), so I slept in LATE. I still wanted to get out and onto a mountain, so I opted to visit the Grand Monadnock yet again. I waited until a little later in the afternoon to avoid some of the crowds. I eventually left a little after noon, hit up the Leominster Cumbies for food, made a few wrong turns, and then got stuck behind an RV at the toll booth for Gilson Pond... They took their sweet time. Thankfully, the parking lot was delightfully empty and the ranger working at the toll booth was super kind (I had accidentally bought a pass for HQ instead of Gilson Pond - I swear online it said "all parking" - but she was like "as long as you're here on purpose you can park here!). Temps were in the mid-70s with a bit of humidity but a lovely breeze.

[2:22pm - Start of Hike on Birchtoft Trail]

My hike started by following signs for the Birchtoft Trail, hopping into the woods, and popping back out at one of the campsite parking spots, where the Pond Trail began.

[2:25pm - Pond Trail]

I followed the Pond Trail around Gilson Pond counter-clockwise. The clouds in the sky made it much cooler than the sun, which was lovely, especially with the humidity. The water levels in the pond were very low, which made sense considering the draught. There were some nice views from the pond with moody skies above, and at the bridge over the dam, the Ravine Trail began.

[2:29pm - Ravine Trail]

The Ravine Trail is a short trail that follows the outflow of Gilson Pond to a few backcountry sites and cross-country ski trails. The trailhead was pretty easy to miss and looked less-traveled than the Pond Trail.

The Ravine Trail started by crossing the outflow on some uneasy footboards before following the stream on the left with mostly fine, occasionally rooty footing. The stream was mostly still with the low water levels, and the trail was a little buggy - thankfully just gnats (I have some post-traumatic stress from the deer fly attack I suffered last time I was around here). Before I knew it, I was at the end of the trail, and I turned around to return to the Pond Trail.

[2:35pm - End of Ravine Trail]

[2:41pm - Pond Trail]

Back on the Pond Trail, I continued around Gilson Pond and successfully did NOT have a swarm of deer flies attack me - yay! There was a fish that fully jumped out of  a water, probably to show off for me. The Pond Trail crossed a stone wall near it's junction with the Birchtoft Trail.

[2:51pm - Birchtoft Trail]

After a few minutes, the Birchtoft Trail turns right just before a series of large boardwalks. The Birchtoft Trail recrossed the same stone wall and passed an area of recent logging. I saw my first two people in this area. The blazes were mostly normal-sized red rectangles, but there were a few skinny red rectangles and a few white ones, too. I'm guessing the white ones were just faded, though. I found myself missing the 40-50 degree temperatures from my past few hikes, but this was still worlds better than some of my summer hikes. 

The trail swung a corner at a sign and crossed another stone wall. Elevation gains have been easy so far, but I was absolutely pouring sweat from the humidity. I traversed over a few PUDs, and eventually made it to the junction with the Hinkley Trail, which would be the end of the loop later on. 

[3:05pm - Birchtoft Trail/Hinkley Trail jct.]

The Birchtoft Trail continued to meander around a stone wall, crossed a cross-country trail (possibly a few, I remember seeing a lot, but I did not take good enough notes, apparently). I crossed paths with a father and his two kids, but the father looked upset and was hiking about 40 feet in front of the kids, which made me giggle. The trail continued to steepen to a height-of-land, where I wrung my soaking wet shirt out, crossed paths with a few people speaking what sounded like Russian, and then slightly descended to the Cascade Link/Red Spot junction!

[3:29pm - Cascade Link Trail

[3:30pm - Cascade Link Trail/Red Spot Trail jct.]

[3:33pm - Spellman Trail]

I turned right here and only followed Cascade Link for a few minutes, still ascending, to the real prize of the day - the Spellman Trail! I remembered loving the Spellman Trail last time, so I was excited to tackle it again! It starts off flat with a little view above the trees to the rock wall that towered above. The flat ramble continued before instantly switching to a scrambly rock pile.

The scrambly rock pile plateaus out on top of a dried-up waterfall and then meandered again to the base of another rock pile - this was the actual headwall and started the STEEEEP climb. I hit my first view at 3.34 miles of Pack Monadnock, Peterborough Gap, and Temple Mountain. The stupid steep climb continued, but at least it was the fun kind of stupid steep! I loved seeing a full panorama of the Wapack Range from North Pack Monadnock all the way to Watatic.

Once the trail gets ledgier, it becomes more important to follow blazes, as it becomes much easier to lose the trail. The final scrambles were the most fun, and then the Spellman Trail dipped back into the woods for some normal moderate-steep hiking. The footing was pretty dreadfull, but it eventually mellowed out. I stopped before the terminus to wring out my shirt before getting on the Pumpelly Trail. I was feeling a bit chilly now that my shirt was soaked with sweat, and the breeze added to that. There was a little bit of sun trying to shine, though!

[4:01pm - Pumpelly Trail]

Once on the Pumpelly Trail, I warmed back up again. I passed the sarcophagus and MANY different types of berries in various stages of growth and decay. I just love how beautiful the Pumpelly Trail is.

[4:10pm - Pumpelly Trail/Red Spot Trail jct.]

I passed the Red Spot Trail and reminisced about my first climb up this wonderful mountain - I was out of shape and in a conga-line of hikers since it was Columbus Day weekend. It's been about 10 years since I had last hiked Red Spot, so I was feeling excited to soon tackle it again. I caught a nice view of the summit area just before the trail dipped into what I started calling "Hot Chocolate Grove" - where Sarah and I drank hot chocolate on that dreadfully wet and cold day a couple Novembers ago. It looks like there may have once been a trail here? Not sure.

[4:23pm - Mt. Monadnock Summit]

I continued to climb up the rocks and slabs, past the cottony grasses, and soon arrived at the summit! I did not stay for long, as I was chilly and feeling goal-oriented. It wasn't too busy up top, but definitely windy!

[4:23pm - White Dot Trail]

I found myself almost instantly swimming up and downstream once on the White Dot trail, which made sense. I was soon sweating again as I slid past downhill hikers and nodding to the uphill ones. 

[4:31pm - White Cross Trail]

I passed a guy who looked serious with a radio at the junction with White Cross Trail - maybe he was a ranger? I noticed that there were a few younger-looking adults way off-trail in the no-mans-land between Smith Connector and White Dot, maybe he was looking for them? He didn't acknowledge me, so I minded my business and continued on.

The old continuation of the Smith Connecting Trail was mostly grown-in, but still discernable (and on AllTrails, which is silly). The sun made a brief appearance, but soon went back away. This descent was MUCH better than the White Dot Trail, notably with MUCH better footing. I passed a group of teens on my way down and one of the girls laid down and grunted "I am one with this rock now," which I fully understood.

There was one rougher stretch, but it was aided with many rock stairs. Once I was back in the trees the crazy squirrels started to act up again, and I later passed an older couple that looked woefully unprepared and like they were NOT having a very good time!

There was another steep-but-well-constructed stretch of rock steps, which eventually bottomed out at an interesting area with some rope-pully system for an unknown cause? Maybe for trail work that has happened or will happen? Not sure. There was also a pile of small rocks with orange tape and sticks over it? I was confused!

After another long series of rock steps I hit a nice wooded walking break that felt very nice on my tired quads. My tendinitis started to act up in this area, which was around 5.69 miles, which I will take! The walking break eventually led to the terminus of the White Cross Trail.

[5:05pm - White Dot Trail]

I was now briefly back on the White Dot Trail and was NOT happy to be ascending again, but it was okay because it was short-lived. I passed two groups of hikers on the short stretch of the White Dot Trail.

[5:09pm - Cascade Link Trail]

[5:10pm - Harling Trail]

I was on the Cascade Link Trail just for a minute before turning onto the Harling Trail, which had a similar less-traveled character as the Ravine Trail. Footing was good just about the whole time and the ferns that lined the trail were getting into the autumn-decay colors, which was exciting! The trail descended at easy to moderate grades, eventually flattening out at a junction with a cross-country ski trail. My shorts were also uncomfortably wet from sweat. I am ready for winter!

The easy descent continued to the terminus of the Harling Trail, which was at a bridge.

[5:25pm - Hinkley Trail]

I crossed the bridge onto the Hinkley Trail - my final new segment du jour! The trail was mostly flat with many gnats, later descending to cross two mostly dry/stagnant streams on bridges with MANY gnats. I collected a few spider webs on the final easy rise to the terminus and junction with the Birthtoft Trail.

[5:37pm - Birchtoft Trail]

Back on the Birchtoft Trail, the big loop was now complete! It said 0.9 back to the car from the sign, and I immedaitely hit the PUDs from before, which was a lot on my tired legs (and gnat-covered body). I had the Jonas Brothers stuck in my head, which actually did help pass the time. Eventually, I got an emotional boost when I could see Gilson Pond through the trees!

[5:50pm - Birchtoft Trail/Pond Trail jct.]

I got even more excited when I reached the junction with the Pond Trail! A little too excited, though, because I immediately stubbed my toe which felt kind of horribly! I then got bit by a bug... Oh well. I flew across the boardwalks, crossed the campsite parking, through the small island of woods, and made it back to the car in mostly one piece! 

[5:56pm - End of Hike]

I did a quick change in the parking lot, where only two other cars were left, and started my journey back home!

Step-by-Step

- Start hike on Birchtoft Trail.

- At camp parking area, turn right onto Pond Trail.

- After dam, turn right onto Ravine Trail.

- At terminus, turn around.

- At dam, turn right onto Pond Trail.

- At jct., turn right onto Birchtoft Trail.

- At terminus, turn right onto Cascade Link Trail.

- At second jct., turn left onto Spellman Trail.

- At terminus, turn left onto Pumpelly Trail.

- At summit, follow sign for White Dot Trail.

- At jct., turn right onto White Cross Trail.

- At terminus, turn left onto White Dot Trail.

- At terminus, continue onto Cascade Link Trail.

- Soon after, turn right onto Harling Trail.

- At terminus, continue left onto Hinkley Trail.

- At terminus, turn right onto Birchtoft Trail.

- Follow Birchtoft Trail to car.

Map of Monadnock State Park

Photo Album

Mt. Monadnock Sunrise via White Dot and Cascade Link (Monadnock State Park)

Mt. Monadnock Sunrise via White Dot and Cascade Link (Monadnock State Park)

Hike Type: Lollipop Loop

Distance: 5.90 miles

Elevation: 1,867 feet

Time: 3 hours, 44 minutes (2 hours, 46 minutes moving)
Hiking Challenges: Monadnock Redliner (2x), Operation Alaska Benchmark Challenge

The Hike

With tired legs after Franconia Ridge, I wanted to keep it a little on the easier side (by no means easy, though) this day by hiking up my favorite mountain - Mt. Monadnock. I've been working on my second round of hiking all the trails in the park, and I needed the classic White Dot Trail. To avoid crowds, I made the executive decision to hike it for sunrise! I was up and out around 2:30am and was DELIGHTED to get breakfast sandwiches at the Winchendon Cumberland Farms at 4:00am! I passed a possum and a couple deer on the rest of my drive.

I made it to the parking lot at 4:20am. It was a chilly 49 degrees with a slight breeze and... I couldn't find the privy in the back lot? Did they just like... remove it? (Update - I learned a few days later I just didn't walk far enough). This made me nervous, becuase I wanted to take care of... morning chores before getting above the trees, but I guess I'll have to pray instead! The skies were super clear, I could hear an owl, and the stars just looked amazing.

[4:28am - Start of Hike]

I got started, walking through the State Park area towards the White Dot Trail. I was in love with how quiet it was at this hour, especially for this mountain. 

[4:30am - White Dot Trail]

I continued onto the White Dot Trail at the massive sign and hiked on the very wide, slightly descending trail, traversing a flat stretch, and then began to climb easily with wide, rocky footing. A gust of wind came through and known down a stick that nearly took my life! When hiking in the dark, I need to make sure I just keep my headlamp forward and pointed down, otherwise I get into my own head and make up sounds of animals that are out to get me!

[4:48am - White Dot Trail/Cascade Link Trail]

The trail moderated and continued to ascend to the junction with the Cascade Link Trail, where it quickly became steep. I was feeling a bit sweatier on this hike than I had the past few days, but I think that was due to the increased humidity. I was surprised at how sustained the rugged steepness was, and was thinking it was probably for the better that I couldn't see too far ahead!

I scrambled up a silly rock slab/wall and fought with some hip belt chafing. I could see the very first light of the day through the trees at 4:50am as I played a literal game of connect the [white] dots. The wind was feeling FANTASTIC as it blew through the trees (I was not looking forward to it up top, though). There was a short-lived walking break before another silly scrambly section, and then I caught my first view at 1.19 miles. It looked like there were clouds on the horizon - maybe it's from the hurricane that's currently off the coast? I wasn't sure if that would affect the sunrise, but I was just happy to be there. It was crystal clear in every other direction!

There was another short walking break before the trail continued to scramble to some more views. I could just barely make out Boston. This was followed by one actually tricky scramble before the trail dipped back into the woods. I broke out of the trees at 1.42 miles - it was chillier and windier now with a STUNNING orange glow on the horizon. From this point, the White Dot Trail continued to gain elevation at a MUCH easier grade to the White Cross Trail junction.

[5:24am - White Dot Trail/White Cross Trail]

I could see some headlamps ahead once at the junction and then I dipped back into the trees before starting the final, slabby climb. I will say, my confidence on these slabs has greatly increased with repititon! I was just behind the duo hiking ahead of me, and soon enough, I was on the summit!

[5:35am - Mt. Monadnock Summit]

It was now bright enough to not need the headlamp anymore. I hit the top, did a quick lap around the summit area, and then set up "camp" to watch the sunrise. I put my phone on a little mag-safe tripod to make a timelapse video of the sunrise, which was mostly hidden behind the trees. I tried a Strawberry Lemonade Poppi soda, which was actually delicious! A few trail runners ran past as I was waiting. I eventually put on all my layers (fleece, nano puff, wind breaker, big puffy worn like a skirt, and gloves) and was still a little chilly. 

Eventually, the sun broke above the clouds and I felt REBORN. The sunlight felt so good on my cold skin. I even found the elusive third survey disc! I KNEW there were three!!! I took a million photos, per usual, including a nice shadow of the mountain to the west. 

After much enjoyment and running around the summit like a giddy school child, I eventually had to pack up my stuff and work my way back down towards the Pumpelly Trail.

[6:24am - Pumpelly Trail]

[6:41am - Pumpelly Trail/Red Spot Trail]

My foot nearly immediately started acting up once on the Pumpelly Trail... oh well. My outer layers came off once I left the main summit area. I was fully engrossed in getting every silhouette photo imaginable while I hiked into the sun - it was so pretty!

[6:52am - Pumpelly Trail/Spellman Trail]

I passed the large Sarcophagus rock and then had a steep dip to the junction with the Spellman Trail. I stopped a bit after to check my text messages and I swear a hummingbird flew up to me to yell at me! Moreso, it flew in front of me, hovered with it's super loud wings, and then flew off, but I took the hint! Just after I landed at my next trail - Cascade Link Trail.

[7:10am - Cascade Link Trail]

The Cascade Link Trail initially descends over ledges to an area where I think "The Imp" could be in view, but I've never been able to make it out (I also have never looked too hard). There were some nice views over towards the Wapack Range as the trail alternated between slabs, scrambles, and soft, flat woods. 

[7:33am - Cascade Link Trail/Spellman Trail]

[7:36am - Cascade Link/Red Spot Trail]

Eventually, a flatter section leads to the junction with the Spellman Trail, and then the Cascade Link Trail continues to be pretty gentle with rocky footing, soon passing the Red Spot/Birchtoft junctions as well.

The trail crossed a dry mossy stream and then the forest near immedaitely changed to lush and green! I was reflecting on the first time I tried this stretch, ascending, and I had to turn around becuase I was cramping so badly. It's crazy how much less water I need now that I'm in better shape (I still need a lot of water, to be fair, I just don't need as much and don't cramp as easily). I did have some... troubling senesations in my lower G.I. track, but it was manageable for the time-being. 

[7:51am - White Dot Trail]

I fully missed the Harling Trail junction and was soon back on the White Dot Trail! I took the spur path to the spring, which was running well despite the lack of rain! I saw my first two people (aside from the summit folks) at 3 hours and 27 minutes/5.12 miles, which again, is insane for this mountain! What a treat, truly! I heard some really cool bird I hadn't heard before (I need to get the Merlin app) and my stomach was feeling BAD.

The White Dot Trail gradually rose up to the park headquarters, were I quickly saw myself to the bathroom! Afterwards, I enjoyed the beautiful sunny day as I walked back to my car.

[8:13am - End of Hike]

I ended my journey with a little solo picnic at a picnic table near my car. I ate my second breakfast sandwich and just enjoyed the wonderful weather after a wonderful hike!

Step-by-Step

- Start hike on White Dot Trail

- Follow White Dot Trail to summit.

- From summit, follow Pumpelly Trail.

- At third jct., turn right onto Cascade Link Trail.

- At terminus, continue onto White Dot Trail.

- If wanted, take spur to spring.

- Follow White Dot Trail back to car.c 

Map of Monadnock State Park

Photo Album

Franconia Ridge Loop via Falling Waters Trail & Old Bridle Path (White Mountain National Forest)

Franconia Ridge Loop via Falling Waters Trail & Old Bridle Path (White Mountain National Forest)

Hike Type: Loop

Distance: 8.87 miles

Elevation: 3,945 feet

Time: 5 hours, 24 minutes (4 hours, 50 minutes moving)
Hiking Challenges: Operation Alaska Benchmark Challenge

The Hike

I was officially in my "holding onto summer with all of my strength" phase of August - time to head back up to the Whites after a one-day hiatus to tackle the classic Franconia Ridge Loop! I had hiked the ridge before, but only as a traverse. I've avoided doing the traditional route just because of crowds, but I figured if I started early in the morning on a weekday, I should be fine. I was up at 3:00am and out the door at 3:15am. I made it to Hooksett by 4:30am and had a disappointing bathroom break and no breakfast sandwich, tragically. Thankfully, the Lincoln Dunkin Donuts came through at 5:30am, where I got to use the bathroom AND get a breakfast sandwich (and a bonus one for the summit!). It was CHILLY out! 45 degrees and SUPER clear - I was getting excited!

I made it to the trailhead at 5:45am, which was delightfully and shockingly empty. Now it was 42 degrees and I was borderline cold! I started off with a fleece and I brought my Nano Puff for good measure. This would be my first long-sleeve hike of the season! I took care of a little more business in the porta potties at the trailhead, put GLOVES on, and got to work!

[5:55am - Old Bridle Path]

My hike started by walking past the truly impressive "Welcome to the Bridle Path - Falling Waters Trailhead" kiosk on a paved path. There was ample signage, including some signs about trail improvements that were being done. There was a guy close behind me, so I was trying to keep a quick early pace (which also helped me warm up). The trail was exceptionally well-built, with wide dirth paths occasionally interrupted with well-built stone stairs.

[5:59am - Falling Waters Trail]

Soon after beginning the hike, the Falling Waters Trail diverges on the right and almost immediately crosses the Walker Brook on a lovely footbridge. I soon tool off my outer layers, as the trail began to climb more often (but not difficultly), eventually veering away from the brook. I could see just the top of the Kinsmans illuminated in the early morning light through the trees (I had thought about doing a sunrise hike, but I wanted to actually see the waterfalls of the Falling Waters Trail, at least for this first visit). The trail briefly flattened and slightly descended, soon entering the White Mountain National Forest at a Forest Protection Area Sign (which encompasses the entirety of the loop), and then crossed Dry Brook, which was pretty dry!

[6:11am - Falling Waters Trail/Forest Protection Area Sign]

The Falling Waters Trail then entered a rerouted stretch with some more nice stonework (the old route was still visible, but clearly closed with lots of sticks and brushing) and followed the Dry Brook on the left, eventually coming up to Stairs Falls, which were just beautiful! I took my gloves off here.

Similar to the Beaver Brook Trail, the Falling Waters Trail was appropriately named as the trail wiggled around the brook, showcasing more and more falling waters! The trail passed beneath the "Sawteeth Ledges," which I wouldn't even know were significant enough to have a name if I didn't read the guidebook, crossed the brook, and then ascended a dry, gravelly, eroded ledge. I was feeling glad that I waited for the sun to be up, because this trail was beautiful!

The brook was now on the right as the water continued to cascade below - I was really enjoying seeing the glowing mountains of the Kinsman Ridge through the trees. I, to no surprise, was yet again thinking about my 4000-Footer journey, and this time I made the connection that I was currently in my "Cher's 2002 The Living Proof, The Farewell Tour" phase of my journey. I only have one "city" left to "perform" at, but I'm visiting some must-hit locations on the way. Also, once I finish the tour, I will obviously be coming back for numerous more tours afterwards.

My foot was miraculously feeling okay - no pain, but I did feel a ~sensation~. A confused little bird dive bombed in front of me, which was alarming, and then the Falling Waters Trail continued to parallel the brook through what appeared to be a storm-damanged area that was a little slippery, and then pivoted to rocky and rugged as it approached Cloudland Falls.

[6:37am - Falling Waters Trail/Cloudland Falls]

Cloudland Falls was BEAUTIFUL. It definitely lived up to the hype! Naturally, I took a million photos and got basically every possible angle of the falls. 

The Falling Waters Trail scrambled to the top of the falls, where there was a cool breeze and a nice view over to the sunlit Mt. Moosilauke, with Mt. Wolf in front - how fun! I passed some more nameless falls and thought about reading through the White Mountain Guide, annotating any named falls, and making a patch that visits all of them...

I then crossed the brook on a slab, which felt super similar the Ammonoosuc Ravine Trail, and then the trail became just a little confusing to follow. I climbed a little scramble and crossed the brook again, enjoying the scent of early autumn, and continued on (this was signed with a temporary paper sign). 

The trail continued to climb through rugged woods with the brook back on the right. There were rock steps, but 1'-2' in height each, which really fired up the quads! I realized I had forgotten to drink any water so far, so I took care of that, crossed the brook again, followed the temporarily mellower trail before continuing to climb uphill. I was missing my anemometer, and I will probably continue to miss it more and more as the weather begins to change (and get more "extreme") - maybe I'll buy a cheap one on Amazon and see if I can not lose it, and that could be the test if I'm allowed to buy another expensive one or not...

I turned the corner at a switchback and a teeny-tiny black rodent scurried across the trail - probably some variant of a mouse? I also encountered my first crazy squrirel du jour - while I hate their cat-calls, I do love the little piles of nut scraps they adorably leave. The air was chillier higher up, so I was trying to slow my pace and actively breathe through my nose to not make my lungs TOO angry. Since that switchback, the trail was pretty rocky and eroded but thankfully not excessively steep! There would be some nice tree views in the wintertime, I bet.

I felt a foot sensation around the hour-20 minute mark, but it wasn't pain, just like, a sensation. I was going faster than I did on Moosilauke and the trail was generally rockier, so that made sense. I was also loving how well the merino wool was wicking the moisture from my body (which I know is like, merino wool's thing, I just forgot how well it works). The canopy briefly started to open up around 2.7 miles and I was HUNGRY for views. I was soaked in sweat, though, and that made me nervous about getting above treeline and being cold (I had layers, so it wouldn't be an issue, I was just more concerned with comfort). 

[7:36am - Shining Rock Spur]

I ran into my first people of the day at the 2.81 mile mark/1 hour and 42 minutes at the Shining Rock Spur junction. They were taking a rest, I said hello, and turned on the spur to check out Shining Rock. It was medium-steep to get there, but a short trail, and wow! The view was very pretty and very unique of the massive slab. The same people from the junction came down after me, so I let them enjoy the view as I blasted back up to the junction to continue on the Falling Waters Trail (I blasted off a little too hard - I was gasping for air at the junction - oops!).

[7:42am - Falling Waters Trail]

At the junction, there was basically a billboard giving some information about the Alpine Zone/fragile alpine vegetation. The guy I saw in the parking lot had caught up with me, so I continued on froom here. The trail was steeper now and trees began to shrink!... and then un-shrunk - I got a little prematurely excited. 

Eventually, some views behind began to open up back towards Moosilauke and Mt. Wolf, and this final push to Little Haystack was sure a doozy! Not sure if it was actually steeper, I was tired, I was going too fast out of impatience, or all three! The trees soon began to ACTUALLY shirnk and I caught some views over to Cannon with the fog over the Connecticut River behind. This was the point of the hike where I'd climb like 10 feet, turn around, go "WOW," and then climb 10 more feet before rinsing & repeating.

[7:58am - Falling Waters Trail/Alpine Zone]

The Falling Waters Trail OFFICIALLY entered the Alpine Zone after many 10-foot pushes, providing an even better view to the Kinsman Ridge and Lonesome Lake. I just kept saying "oh my god" - it was absolutely stunning up there. My notes read: "oh my GOD its incredible up here holy shit oh my god im overwhelmed." The sun was still low in the horizon, which added a beautiful shadow to the west side of the ridge, while the Pemigewasset Wilderness was fully illuminated. I also loved seeing Killington behind Moosilauke and Mt. Wolf - all three other mountains I climbed this week! I could also now see the slopes of Cannon with Bald Mountain/Artist Bluff looking absolutely tiny. The Greenleaf Hut was standing proud at the end of the Agony Ridge, which was scarred with slides. Lincoln was also looking simply insane in the best way.

[8:04am - Franconia Ridge Trail]

I eventually had to move again, which brought me to the summit of Little Haystack. I originally planned to snack here, but there was a group of hikers already doing so, and I wasn't too hungry yet, so I blasted off toward Mt. Lincoln! I did put my windbreaker on. I couldn't get over how ridiculously beautiful it was on this ridge. It was also... empty?? Last time I was up here, which in fairness was on a Friday, it was like a conga line. I couldn't see anyone besides the hikers on Little Haystack. 

I loved looking right into the Pemi and left onto the Walker Ravine (I think). There were newer little signs that had Ravens teaching hikers about the alpine vegetation which was super cute. There were a few scrambles leading up to Mt. Lincoln, which was a bit of a doozy getting up to, but there were still blueberries for snacking, so all was good!

[8:29am - Franconia Ridge Trail/Mt. Lincoln]

To no surprise, Mt. Lafayette looked absolutely insane from Mt. Lincoln. I could now see Mt. Garfield and the Willoughby Gap (which is one of my favorite things to see) in addition to basically every other mountain (besides Jay Peak, of course, since it was in the only cloud). Little birds guided me down Lincoln. I will say, the Lincoln Slide does look fun to ski... I do want to get into backcountry, but doing a slide like that is YEARS and years away. I need to first just skin up a groomed slope, and then probably the actual backcountry trails in the area before doing anything moderately close to that. 

I continued to be in disbelief 1) how few people were around and 2) how many ripe blueberries there were. I was just the happiest boy! Lafayette looked even better from the summit of Truman/North Lincoln, and I was officially at the point where I could not stop singing "Guns and Ships" from Hamilton.

The col between North Lincoln/Truman and Lafayette was a bit scrubby and marked the official climb to Lafayette. The climb really wasn't too bad, and I always say hiking above treeline always feels easier than when in the woods. The final push was just a sensory dream. The sun was shining, wind was blowing but not oppressively, mountains were visible in every which direction (including Mt. Washington!), and the only sound I could hear was the swishing of the alpine grasses. It was really amazing - I needed it.

[8:59am - Mt. Lafayette Summit]

Once on top, I was again shocked and delighted to see only two other people! I had a nice shelter from the breeze in the old foundation, where I had my snacks (including but not limited to leftover pizza and creme brulee almonds). I found the two survey discs, and it looked like there used to be a third at some point. I was so happy to be up here. 

[9:15am - Greenleaf Trail]

After about 15 minutes, though, many more people began to arrive and I was getting chilly, so it was time to head on down the Greenleaf Trail. There were impressive scree walls guiding the trail as I descended wearing my windbreaker and gloves. The hut looked so close, yet so far! This stretch of trail was similar to the upper Jewel Trail, but a LOT nicer on the knees (not 100% nice, but definitely nicer). 

I loved seeing the false summits north of Lafayette from this angle, and I soon was taking my layers back off as I got out of the wind. It was such a beautiful, perfect day. I really couldn't believe it! I didn't want it to end (also because I had just learned that my toilet at home was broken). I was feeling more sensation in my bad foot, but it wasn't pain, yet. 

The Greenleaf Trail eventually entered the scrub and I went a nice bit of time without seeing anybody else, which was lovely. I did patch one insane patch of super loud flies that I did not care for, and I passed an interesting revegatation sign at "the beach" - a sandy area with what looks like used to be a view, but I guess they're letting it grow back in? 

[9:41am - Greenleaf Trail/Forest Protection Area Sign]

The trail continued to ruggedly descend as it exited the Alpine Zone and entered the Forest Protection Area, eventually briefly ascending to an open area with a nice view back towards Mt. Lafayette. I caught a nice view of the hut and then descended again to the low point of the trail, which was a bridge over the outflow of the Eagle Lakes with partial views around and a nice view to the hut.

[9:55am - Greenleaf Hut]

There was a wonderful view of Lafayette and the lakes from the hut, but I didn't spend time there. It wasn't that I wanted to go home, but I wanted to keep moving and see new things before more people showed up! I did a quick lap around the hut and then turned left onto the Old Bridle Path.

[9:57am - Old Bridle Path]

The Old Bridle Path ascended easily away from the hut, providing a better view and then continued the long descent in well-traveled, mossy woods. 

[10:04am - Old Bridle Path/Forest Protection Area Sign]

The trail soon entered another FPA (I think there's basically four on this hike: Falling Waters Trail, Alpine Zone, Greenleaf Hut, and Old Bridle Path) and continued on a nice, descending trail with mildly rocky footing. I was thinking "this really isn't too bad," just as the trail began to plummet! Thankfully, views began again! I first caught forward/on the right to Haystack, Liberty, I-93, Moosilauke, and the Kinsman Ridge.

A view soon after showcased nearby slides, and then even more views appeared in a scrambly area with super smooth rocks that were a little tricky to navigate. The trail traversed a walking break lined with wonderful white flowers before descending again to a wonderful view of the landmass I had just descended and the Lincoln-Lafayette Ridge. I met a cute dog just after this viewpoint, which was followed an even better view of the full drainage, which was wonderful. The great views continued on this stretch of trail, which was nice as I was beginning to pull over more frequently for folks hiking up. 

There was one big, eroded slab after the last view, and the fun was officially over! We were back on badly eroded, dusty dirt! The trail then flattened, again (not complaining, but I was noticing a pattern!). I saw this adorable blue-ish bird with a gold-ish belly and little white halo-ish type line on it's head - no idea what it was, but it was cute! The trail continued to be dreadfully rocky as it passed a sign about the trail restoration project. After this sign, I was basically on a whole different trail. It was delightfully crafted with easy stone steps and easier grades - it was wonderful!

...and then it got bad again! I realized that the trail workers are building new trails and slowly closing down the existing route in segments, so I was just on a new segment but now I was back on an old one, while the one they were currently working on was on the right. Soon, it was lovely again!

The trail turned a corner and I could hear water agian, but I never saw it. I rambled about in a flatter area, and then a crazy squirrel welcomed me to my final mile, which was back on bad footing. And then it was better! And then it was bad! I descended past a trail worker splitting rocks (I would have said hi, but he was DEEP in his work) - I realized he's working on another new segment that looked almost complete.

NOW I was close! The trail flattened out after this stretch and I could start to hear water again. There was a switchback onto a reroute (the trail crews did a SERIOUS job brushing in the old route!), and then I was suddenly back at the Old Bridle Path/Falling Waters Trail split!!

[11:14am - Old Bridle Path/Falling Waters Trail]

The last stretch of trail was short, sweet, and new! I passed MANY people beginning their adventures, dressed in an... interesting array of clothes. 

[11:18am - End of Hike]

It was now a TOASTY 64 degrees at the car and I had just completed another leg of my farewell tour! I'm not too sure how long this tour will last. I know I want to do the Tripyramids via the slides and maybe the Flume Slide too for good measure, but I have no set dates as of now and plan to just enjoy my time! Now... time to go fix a toilet...

Step-by-Step

- Start hike on Old Bridle Path.

- At jct., turn right onto Falling Waters Trail.

- At terminus, turn left onto Franconia Ridge Trail.

- At summit of Mt. Lafayette, turn left onto Greenleaf Trail.

- At hut, turn left onto Old Bridle Path.

- Follow Old Bridle Path back to car.

Photo Album