Also on this trip
Trails Used
Sugarloaf mountain trail
Trail Conditions
Notes
Trail was in great shape.
Parking
Parking lot was 1/2 full at 8:30, completely full at 10:30am.
Water Crossings
Easy
Wildlife
Breezy conditions kept them away.
Also on this trip
Trails Used
Sugarloaf mountain trail
Trail Conditions
Notes
Trail was in great shape.
Parking
Parking lot was 1/2 full at 8:30, completely full at 10:30am.
Water Crossings
Easy
Wildlife
Breezy conditions kept them away.
Also on this trip
Trails Used
Mount Osceola Trail, bushwhack
Trail Conditions
Notes
Plenty of wet areas on the Mount Osceola Trail, particular on the ledge sections, but my boots gripped fine in most cases. The woods along the section of ridge closest to the Osceola trail are lovely to walk through, however, due to ledges and blowdown, the terrain is more challenging as you approach the summit of Middle Osceola. I needed my bushwhacking knowledge to navigate the final ascent to the summit safely and efficiently. We located the cannister within a few minutes, on the south side of the ridge as described by others, and replaced the disintegrating register. (Thanks to Jay for reporting that maintenance was needed, so I could coordinate with the appropriate individuals in advance. Old log will be delivered to the TW for archiving at the next work day I am able to attend.)
Parking
Lot almost full at 9:15. Half dozen cars, including a couple on the road, at 3:15. Tripoli Road was easily passable in a regular car from Exit 31.
Water Crossings
minor / easily rock hopped
Wildlife
Lots of bugs (black flies or gnats?), even at the summit with a light breeze blowing, but they weren't biting, so there's that.
Trails Used
Mountain Trail - Middle Mountain Trail - Side Path - South Ridge Trail
Trail Conditions
Notes
I love visiting Pawtuckaway before the trees leaf out in the Spring, and then again in the fall if I'm able to catch that 'last' warm sunny day in October. No leaves means I can see well into the woods, and when something catches my eye, I can go investigate.
Parking
plenty of space during the week at HQ
Water Crossings
The few places to actually step in water are easily rock hopped.
Wildlife
the black flies are starting and the hordes of mosquitos will follow. no ticks, even with my side quests...I think it's too dry.
Trails Used
Pudding Pond Tr, Middle Mtn Tr, Peaked Mtn Trail, Peaked Mtn/Black Cap Connector Tr
Trail Conditions
Notes
A lovely loop, we did it counterclockwise. Nice views of Conway Lake and of the Presies from the top of Middle. Nice look back to Middle from Peaked, with views of the Moats. The stream along Middle Mtn Tr was flowing well with little cascades along the way A couple people out doing the loop, otherwise pretty quiet. Temps in the 70s with strong sun today, lovely day to play hooky from work.
Parking
Dirt lot on Thompson Rd, room for maybe 10-12 cars +/-. Three upon arrival at 9am, about 6 early afternoon.
Water Crossings
Stepovers, plenty of water right now but staying within the banks.
Wildlife
A couple of flies buzzing around on Middle Mtn.
Also on this trip
Trails Used
Middle Mountain Trail,Peaked Mtn-Middle Mtn Connector Trail,Peaked Mtn Trail,Peaked Mtn/Blackcap Connector
Trail Conditions
Notes
Nice morning to work through these trails for the WMG. Spotty icy patches remain here and there but no issues barebooting whatsoever. Light snow started just after summitting Middle Mountain. Looks like would be some nice views from both on a clear day. Only crossed paths with one other hiker today
Parking
Good sized lot at Pudding Pond Trailhead on Thompson Road.recommend early arrival as looks to fill up fast with no nearby parking
Water Crossings
Two minor flows both have boards. No issue
Wildlife
Not today