Trails Used

logging road, skidder road, bushwhack

Trail Conditions

Notes

A moderate day in the forest was had. This is a very easy and straight forward peak, so we decided to do it in expert mode in the rain. Leaving the gate, the road walk is about 3.1 miles to a log yard in the notch. At the far end, there is a skidder line that shoots uphill. You can follow this for about another 0.6, before having to bushwhack the rest of the way - about 1/4 mile. Easy woods, lots of hobblebush but can avoid largely. Scintillating time, 8 miles on the dot in 2h55. I guess the rain reduces friction and you move faster, similar to driving on ice. Found an old USFS corner along the way. Funny I can find them 3.5 miles in the woods, but can't find them when im at work.

Parking

Parked at a gate with a broken lock. Vehicular traffic stops here. I wouldn't suggest proceeding with a highway vehicle, as strong as the siren's lure is. There's several obstacles including one tire shredder culvert with no place to turn around anywhere. After seeing it from both sides, totally not worth it.

Also on this trip

Trails Used

Asquam Ridge, Beaver Brook, Bushwhack, Gorge Brook

Trail Conditions

Notes

A very pleasant day to venture up Asquam Ridge for the first time. It's a much gentler approach to an already gentle summit, which makes really fast going on slightly more cushioned trails. Well worth the extra mile or two if you've done Moosilauke before. The bushwhack to Blue is also well defined with lots of signs of moose activity. Everything is in great shape. Saw two northbound through hikers. Checked off another Trailwrights peak. The answer is always 'yes' if the question includes hiking Moosilauke.

Parking

About a dozen cars on the lodge road at 2pm. Only a handful around 7pm.

Water Crossings

Wood bridges make all the tough ones easy

Wildlife

Lots at the summit, but ok otherwise

Also on this trip

Trails Used

Snapper Trail, Carriage Road, Beaver Brook Trail, herd path, Asquam Ridge Trail

Trail Conditions

Notes

Overall pretty dry trails with many sections of muddy swampiness including significant chunks of Asquam ridge. Took the herd path for the scenic route over the summit of Blue including a pretty partial view back up to the summit from a fir wave and the most graceful bum touch ever. Forgot what summer conditions are like and other than the warm temps and not needing any traction devices not really that enthusiastic about it yet

Parking

Road had many cars tho got a great spot

Water Crossings

All well bridged

Wildlife

Pretty tame below 2k than pretty nonexistent farther up tho so many muggles sigh

Also on this trip

Trails Used

Beaver brook trail

Trail Conditions

Equipment

Notes

Snow/soft ice starts in low elevation, at around 2150’. Need to be careful, it’s very steep and a fall can send you straight to the waterfall at some places! No mud, and there’s maybe one or two places that are more wet, just below the shelter. Crampons were in feet most of the time, they are essential. Flat monorail after the Benton tr jct, with snow free sections near Blue. Didn’t bother to remove the spikes (Hillsounds), except near the summit of Moosilauke.

Water Crossings

Very easy crossings, no issues

Wildlife

No bugs yet!