Also on this trip

Trails Used

Dicey's Mill, Tom Wiggins, Blueberry Ledge, Rollins, Dicey's Mill, Walden, Wonalancet Range, Old Mast Road

Trail Conditions

Notes

Tom Wiggins is not as challenging as advertised, but I would not be anxious to descend it. In addition to loose gravel, many of the rocks are moss covered and could be quite slippery. There appear to be several options where to cross the river, but all are easy at this time. It is a little muddy there. Great views from Whiteface south ledges! Circled all the viewpoints on Passaconaway. Unfortunately, Presidentials and Franconias were in the clouds when I arrived at the north outlook, but views were otherwise excellent. No fall colors yet. The path to the north outlook is fairly muddy in spots. Walden alternates pleasant ridge walking with steep and rough up and downs. Hibbard view is essentially totally obscured, but nearby viewpoint is a nice alternate. As noted above, finding the Wonalancet Range trail below the ledge area is tricky. If I were to do this hike again, I would go down the shortcut instead and save the ascent to the ledges for another day.

Parking

No issues.

Water Crossings

Easy rock hop of Wonalancet River

Wildlife

None

Also on this trip

Trails Used

Kelley Trail, Oliverian Brook Trail, Square Ledge Branch Trail, Square Ledge Trail, Walden Trail, Wonalancet Range Trail

Trail Conditions

Notes

My route was a grab bag of Sandwich Range trails. Up Kelley Trail, slightly down Oliverian Brook Trail, up Square Ledge Branch, up Square Ledge Trail, down Walden Trail, and down Wonalancet Range Trail. Highlights included the box canyon on Kelley Trail, the rugged rocks of Square Ledge, and lots of wood sorrel in bloom. I wasn't expecting great views, but I met Mike S. (WODC Trails Chair) on Kelley Trail and he told me about a short view spur at the top of Square Ledge. That had a amazing view of Mt. Passaconaway with a glimpse of Mt Carrigain to the north. Thanks, Mike! There's also a well known view spur just below the summit of Hibbard Mountain. I stayed there for a short break before the mosquitoes drove me on. It was a good day exploring the rugged landscape of the Sandwich Range.

Parking

Parked at Ferncroft. The lot was more than half full. Busy for a weekday.

Water Crossings

Oliverian Brook Trail and Square Ledge Branch Trail both cross Oliverian Brook. I managed to keep my boots on and stay dry.

Wildlife

Mosquitoes were annoying.