Trails Used

Garfield trail, Garfield Ridge trail

Trail Conditions

Equipment

Notes

First winter hike of the season :-) It started nicely under a gray sky, with flurries. Just after the large rock, snow started to accumulate on the ground, not much but I could see the tracks of the people ahead of me. Higher up on the switchbacks, it was more consistent, with ice forming. At the junction, about 1 inch of snow was covering the trail. No need for spikes going up there but I did put them before getting on the slabs near the summit. I kept them until returning to the junction. The summit was in the clouds initially but soon, everything cleared up and we were rewarded with georgous views of the Franconia ridge and nearby summits. To the north, we could even see the lake Willoughby gap! The summit was almost empty, 3 people but that was going to change as around 25 people were coming up. The descent was uneventful. I chatted with a hiker from Malden, MA (very enjoyable).

Parking

Large lot, three car at 7:30am, full at 2pm

Water Crossings

All crossings were easy if you don't mind putting your foot under water

Wildlife

That would have been surprising today

Also on this trip

Trails Used

North Twin Trail, North Twin Spur, Twinway, Frost Trail, Garfield Ridge Trail, Mount Garfield Trail

Trail Conditions

Notes

Any day that starts with a pumpkin oat bar from Maia Papaya and ends with Yaya's Pizza is going to be a good day. And so it was. Despite the incredibly full lot, the nature of this route leads to people not clustering. Unless you're a 20 something dude, then you'll be meeting several hundred of your kind at Guyot tonight. So day hikers must only get to North Twin faster than everyone else and you'll glide until Garfield. Conditions are starting to warn of edge season - cold wind at summits requiring hats, gloves and extra jackets. Small patches of ice on wet rocks, especially the lower half of the climb down from South Twin. Other than that and a few minor sections of mud, things are in good shape. And of course, huge thanks to the random truckload of people that drove me from Garfield TH to North Twin TH. That's a far more pleasant ride than road run. Also thanks to the couple from Maryland who was deathly afraid of speaking to someone asking for a ride near a trailhead. The terror in your faces was equally amusing and confusing.

Parking

All of Massachusetts was at the North Twin TH by 8am. Any spots they left open were filled by VT and Maine. Still, it wasn't that bad. You only had to park 3-4 mins walking distance to get to the trailhead.

Water Crossings

The North Twin crossing was rock hoppable without too much thinking. Everything else was easy to get across.

Also on this trip

Trails Used

Falling waters, Lincoln wood, Bond cliff, Twin, Garfield ridge trail

Trail Conditions

Notes

I did the alternative pemi loop in one day. Start: Falling waters trail and Little Haystack (Counter clockwise) Finish: Lafayette Bear Report Sep.12. 10:36AM When I was going up to the Mt. Bond cliff summit from Bond cliff trail (South to summit), middle size Black Bear came up from slide to the Bond Cliff trail. Fortunately, black bear just run away and was noting happened.

Also on this trip

Trails Used

Garfield Trail, Garfield Ridge Trail, spur, Frost Trail, Gale River Trail, Gale River Rd

Trail Conditions

Notes

FOT 48! Lots of folks out as expected. 38 @ the start but it warmed up quickly. Dry to start really fast to the top, love this trail. Lots of folks on top @ 9, windy cool but views were amazing. Lingered longer than I planned then across the ridge. Careful down the waterfall, not too bad just slow. Mud in all the usual spots, more than 3 weeks ago. Once again went right by West Peak spur. Up to East great views as always. Puds seem to get easier the more I do them. The last .6 miles to hut always kick my ass. Dropped pack at hut for quick trip to top. Great spot for the flag, just off summit in open area, it could be seen from the hut….so cool. Was planning on South & North Twin but I was past my turnaround time & really wasn’t feeling it. Quick down Gale River, this trail too is made for speed. Lots of roadside parking here too. Quick walk to car to end a perfect weather day.

Parking

Lot full many in road @ 6:45. Parking past the bridge & around the corner @ 4

Water Crossings

Levels low no issues

Wildlife

Flyers on Gale River just annoying

Trails Used

Garfield, Garfield Ridge

Trail Conditions

Notes

We encountered light showers in the last few miles of the drive in, but that seemed to end as we arrived. As we got on the trail in pack covers & ponchos, most of the drops were off the trees overhead. After a while the ponchos came off, and the hike uphill generated enough heat for just short sleeves, but on the edge of needing a very light layer. There was little wind up top but cool as we layered up and had lunch at the rocks a few feet below the summit. There was absolutely no view of anything more than a couple hundred feet away. Of course, within an hour of descent the sun started shining on us. This OTHH hike was a 48 first round finish for two of us, something started 26 years ago. Another finished her 2nd round. We had a very nice tailgate party back at the cars. For those doing Garfield the first time by this route, although the trail is five miles long and gains around 3000 ft, the trail is quite easy going the first two miles, then climbs a bit more steeply but never severely so until the last few hundred yards. Getting up in less than "book time" (4 hours by the fomula) is easy on this trail. Even I beat that by a half hour, and I'm 82, so I didn't feel too shabby about that.

Parking

There were quite a few cars at the lot at 8am. We took the remaining couple of spaces, plus one across the road, which is quite wide opposite the parking area.

Water Crossings

The continuing general dryness makes the crossings just a matter of choosing a path across the all the rocks carefully, as some are wet, maybe slippery, and perhaps loose.

Wildlife

None

Also on this trip

Trails Used

Mt Garfield Trail, Garfield Ridge Trail, Twinway, Bondcliff Trail, spur

Trail Conditions

Notes

Day 1 of a planned 3 day trip. Garfield Ridge trail is a nice gradual climb, dry low but slippery rocks the higher I got. Final push was not as bad as I remembered, windy cool, socked in for the most part. Found a spot out of the wind for lunch, solo for a while. Planned on staying at the campsite due to rain forecasted. Got an updated forecast from a Nobo while filtering water, no rain until much later! I decided to go to Guyot instead with favorable forecast. Very slow down the waterfall, very wet thru here. Hit East Peak but still can’t find West. Seems like I get into a zone & walk right past it. Water up at hut, not many here, sun was out so I could see what lies ahead. Climb up to South, brutal as always! Love the Twinway, 1 step over and I think a leaner but no issues. Lots of minor mud though. Guyot was busier than I hoped but still had a platform solo.

Parking

Garfield lot was full @ 7:15 roadside parked with 2 others

Water Crossings

Either dry or running low

Wildlife

Black flies on Garfield and biting

Trails Used

Garfield Trail, Garfield Ridge Trail

Trail Conditions

Notes

Pick your poison - start early to avoid the heat and have no views or start later and deal with the heat to have the views. I chose the former and still was drenched by mile 2. The trail was mostly dry but the rocks were sweaty due to the humidity. Higher up I had hoped for a breeze but didn't get much of one. The climb to the summit also had some areas of slick rocks but the summit itself was basically dry but totally socked in. I bumped into several people I knew which was great. This completed my single season summer and my 7th consecutive single season. Clearly I have no marketable skills other than walking uphill and downhill. All and all this was an incredible day!

Parking

There were 3 cars in the lot when I arrived and when I finished the lot was full and there were some cars parked along the road.

Water Crossings

All easy rock hops today. Water can be filtered from either crossing.

Wildlife

Not a bother on the way up but I picked up some deer flies and annoying gnats on the way down.

Trails Used

Mt. Garfield Trail, Garfield Ridge Trail

Trail Conditions

Notes

While the water crossings were easy, there were a couple of muddy spots (no standing water), and the rocks on the upper half of the climb were wet and somewhat slick. Plenty of folks out hiking today, and the views from the summit were spectacular. This was my first time up Garfield, and it is now among my favorites!

Parking

The Garfield Trail parking area was fairly full when I arrived at 7:45, and cars were lined up in both directions down the road when I returned at 3:00.

Water Crossings

Easily crossed. The mid-week rain hasn't created any problems here.

Wildlife

Nothing of concern; just some annoying buzzing every once in a while.

Also on this trip

Trails Used

North Twin Trail, Fire Warden's Trail, Lend-A-Hand Trail, Twinway, Bondcliff Trail, Lincoln Woods Trail, Osseo Trail, Franconia Ridge Trail, Garfield Ridge Trail, North Twin Spur

Trail Conditions

Notes

This extension of the conventional Pemi Loop was a hike I had planned for some time as a buildup to an endurance race, and the Lincoln Woods closure did not interfere with the route. Starting from the North Twin trailhead, this starts with Hale via the Fire Warden's Trail, makes a quick detour to Zealand Falls Hut, then heads up the Twinway to the Zeacliff outlook, Zealand, and the Bonds. The Bondcliff Trail marks the entry point to the standard Pemi Loop, which is then followed to the Osseo Trail (Lincoln Woods Trail is closed immediately south of this intersection), and across Franconia Ridge and Garfield Ridge. This is a formidable amount of climbing in the second half of the hike, and the South Twin ascent after 37.6 miles was the coup de grace. Trail conditions were excellent for the endeavor, with largely dry rocks, even on some of the typically wet sections of the Garfield Ridge Trail. The Bondcliff Trail had its typical muddy sections, but most of these could be avoided. The wettest segment of trail might have been the narrow corridor of the North Twin Spur. Most of the trails were unusually quiet for the Sunday of 4th of July weekend, but the Lincoln Woods closure and my civil twilight start had a lot to do with that. I encountered a number of friendly hikers between Zealand Falls Hut and Mt. Bond, and almost no one until miles later between Mt. Flume and Mt. Liberty. Though I was there around mid to late-afternoon, the number of hikers between Little Haystack and Mt. Lafayette was moderate rather than excessive. There were a few trail runners, all headed in the opposite direction, undoubtedly with similarly creative itineraries. Views were spectacular, and lower temperature and humidity made this endeavor much more pleasant than it would have been a few days earlier. Overall hike statistics: 44.0 miles, 14,050' gain, 18:20 elapsed time. Full details on Unnecessary Climb!

Parking

Ample parking at the end of Haystack Rd.

Water Crossings

Most significant crossing was the Little River 1.9 miles from the end of the North Twin Trail, and this could be creatively rock-hopped by headlamp. Water crossings on the Bondcliff Trail and Twinway were relatively easy rock hops.

Wildlife

Moderate presence of mosquitoes and small flies, most noticeable when stopped. One application of picaridin around mid-morning kept them away for the remainder of the day.

Also on this trip

Trails Used

Pemi East Side, Bushwhack, Osseo, Franconia Ridge, Garfield Ridge, Twin Brook, Frost, Twinway, West Bond Spur, Bondcliff, Wilderness, Lincoln Woods

Trail Conditions

Notes

Standard (almost) Pemi Loop from Lincoln Woods. This is the easiest loop, and it's still possible, but I wouldn't recommend it. I took the East Side trail about 1.7 miles and then broke toward the river to cross. Look for the spot where the river is straight and wide, with a large eroded dirt cliff on the far side. This cliff is directly at the end of the Osseo Trail. I crossed toward the downstream end of the cliff and was never more than thigh deep. The water is cold and moving pretty fast. I'd recommend poles or a stick for balance. Once I hit the shore, there was a trail of orange tapes leading up to the LW Trail. Turn RIGHT and you'll see the Osseo in a hundred yards or so. I left my wet shoes there for the return trip, but you might consider carrying them so you can cross farther up (less water) on the way back. I wouldn't recommend a barefoot crossing, and would consider scoping/trying out the crossing(s) on a day when you are not doing the hike. I spent a lot of time and energy on that. Crossing back when it's dark and you're tired will be difficult.

Parking

Lincoln Woods lot was nearly empty at 5am on a Wednesday, and again at midnight.

Water Crossings

All trail-based crossings were easily managed, but last crossing on Wilderness Trail near Lincoln Woods Trails was a bit tricky in the dark.

Wildlife

Not bad at all, but it was quite breezy to windy most of the day. The biggest problem was all the moths dive-bombing my headlamp on the way out.

Trails Used

Gale River Trail, Garfield Ridge Trail, Skookumchuck Trail

Trail Conditions

Notes

In all my travels, I’ve never hiked the dreaded Garfield Ridge Trail, so it was time to see for myself. Parked at Skook and caught the AMC shuttle to Gale River, then up Gale River Trail, across the ridge with a stop at Garfield, down Skookumchuck. Tempted to add an up-and-back to Lafayette, but wasn’t in the cards today. It was my first time on Skookumchuck, and the well-placed rocks on the lower portion were a welcome surprise! Weather was sunny and warm all day - layers stayed in the pack. Also experienced a hiking first - encountered close to 100 other people, but not one all day traveling in my same direction. Lots of folks doing Pemi Loops and such ahead of the Lincoln Woods closure. Had Skookumchuck all to myself to end the day. Fun climbing conversation with a trio of New Yorkers on the shuttle. Go Knicks! We agreed the Dean Potter documentary HBO is a must-watch.

Parking

Very lucky to catch a just-opening spot at Skookumchuck Trail lot when I arrived. 3 cars left when I returned.

Water Crossings

Couple of log bridges on Gale River Trail have collapsed, but crossings could still be navigated safely. Any non-bridged ones were rock-hoppable.

Wildlife

Definitely a factor. Not overly bad on Gale River, but I was also almost constantly moving. Up on the ridge I finally stopped to put on some repellent. Even after that, they were ever-present. Got one briefly up the nose, always fun. A stiff breeze on the shoulder of Lafayette was a gift.

Trails Used

Gale River Trail, Garfield Ridge Trail, Skookumchuck Trail

Trail Conditions

Notes

In all my travels, I’ve never hiked the dreaded Garfield Ridge Trail, so it was time to see for myself. Parked at Skook and caught the AMC shuttle to Gale River, then up Gale River Trail, across the ridge with a stop at Garfield, down Skookumchuck. Tempted to add an up-and-back to Lafayette, but wasn’t in the cards today. It was my first time on Skookumchuck, and the well-placed rocks on the lower portion were a welcome surprise! Weather was sunny and warm all day - layers stayed in the pack. Also experienced a hiking first - encountered close to 100 other people, but not one all day traveling in my same direction. Lots of folks doing Pemi Loops and such ahead of the Lincoln Woods closure. Had Skookumchuck all to myself to end the day. Fun climbing conversation with a trio of New Yorkers on the shuttle. Go Knicks! We agreed the Dean Potter documentary HBO is a must-watch.

Parking

Very lucky to catch a just-opening spot at Skookumchuck Trail lot when I arrived. 3 cars left when I returned.

Water Crossings

Couple of log bridges on Gale River Trail have collapsed, but crossings could still be navigated safely. Any non-bridged ones were rock-hoppable.

Wildlife

Definitely a factor. Not overly bad on Gale River, but I was also almost constantly moving. Up on the ridge I finally stopped to put on some repellent. Even after that, they were ever-present. Got one briefly up the nose, always fun. A stiff breeze on the shoulder of Lafayette was a gift.

Trails Used

Garfield Trail : Garfield Ridge Trail

Trail Conditions

Notes

Most of the trail is dry surface. There is some mud here and there. The most mud is in the switchback sections at higher elevation on the Garfield Trail. None of the mud is significant. Not much for wildflowers in bloom. Great views from the summit ledges. Many hikers out today including one day Pemi Loopers, multi day Pemi Loopers, one AT thru hiker, and lots of day hikers. Had a nice conversation with a RI couple on the summit. Many Maine hikers on the trail.

Parking

Gale River Loop Road (FR92) is in good condition with only minor holes that are easy to avoid.

Water Crossings

The Thompson Brook and Spruce Brook crossings were easy rock hops. No need to use the snowmobile/bushwhack alternate route.

Wildlife

Black flies are out. I got a couple in my eye before I put on the head net at the summit.

Also on this trip

Trails Used

Pemi loop over three days. Stayed at Liberty Spring and Guyot Tentsites.

Trail Conditions

Notes

Lovely weather. Best Spring conditions I've ever seen. Glad to have made it out before Lincoln Woods Closure

Water Crossings

Rock Hopping. All crossings were easily crossable by wading or rock hopping.

Wildlife

Gnats and maybe one black fly came out on the final of our 3 days as we returned to Lincoln Woods.

Trails Used

Garfield Trail, Garfield Ridge Trail

Trail Conditions

Notes

Alot of hikers on this trail for this cool and comfortable day. And alot of overnight and single day loopers at the top getting it in under the Lincoln Woods June shutdown wire. The trail is in good condition with some of the usual sloppy spots. A pleasant hike, some nice chats with other hikers and #39 for Kwi-hui's 48 over 70. Woo-hoo! Side note: We met two NOBO's on Liberty Springs yesterday who started 3/15.

Parking

Pretty full, pretty early

Water Crossings

All very crossable without issue.

Wildlife

Not many and not bothersome.

Trails Used

Garfield Ridge Trail

Trail Conditions

Notes

Trail is in good condition - generally dry with occasional mud (solid base under mud) - OK to walk through. Overall trail conditions are as good as they get - especially for May. Good time to snag Garfield.

Parking

No cars at 7:15 - 10 cars at 12:30 - lot full and 3 cars parked on side of road. On way home I checked on Galehead lot - 3 cars and North Twin lot - 2 cars. Haystack Road opened yesterday.

Water Crossings

Easy - Plenty of dry rocks to step on

Wildlife

None - Zero

Also on this trip

Trails Used

Lincoln Woods Trail, Osseo Trail, Franconia Ridge Trail, Garfield Ridge Trail, Frost Trail, Twinway, Bondcliff Trail, West Bond Spur

Trail Conditions

Notes

Awesome pemi this morning-started at 2:45 to minimize heat, bugs, and potential afternoon thunderstorms. Saw fewer than twenty hikers all day (no other trail runners), and had every summit minus Liberty to myself! Strong winds and big old clouds kept it comfortable until the eight mile run down from Bondcliff, which felt like I was running through hell it was so dang hot with minimal leaf coverage in the hardwoods. Leave the spikes at home! There was one stretch of stubborn unavoidable snow just before breaking treeline on Guyot. It only lasted five minutes. It was reported that the Zealand-Guyot stretch is still deep and nasty as of this morning. Top of Garfield and West Bond essentially all melted out. Get it before the LW closure!!!

Parking

Tons of space today

Water Crossings

Easy rock hops

Wildlife

Early start and elevated winds kept all the nasty buggers away. There were lots of regular old flies along the ridge in the woods but they were minding their own business!

Trails Used

Garfield Trail

Trail Conditions

Notes

The only tricky section was after the junction, up to Garfield. Its easy to navigate around if you enjoy a little bit of twister. Coming down we were more cautious because of the sections of ice. No traction needed, its not worth carrying.

Parking

Road is open!! YAY

Water Crossings

They were flowing but its easy to rock hop

Wildlife

Lower half of the trail had the gnats out again. Welcome to spring

Trails Used

Galehead Road Loop, Garfield Ridge Trail

Trail Conditions

Equipment

Notes

Today was one of those days where it was so lovely on the trail nothing could spoil the mood—not even the road walk, rivers of water, copious amounts of mud, black flies, mosquitos, and a VERY stubborn monorail starting around 3700 feet! But the company was good, views even better, and the warm breeze kept the bugs away while we ate lunch with the best views that money CAN’T buy. Logistics: -gate is now open -major water crossing is a bear, and the immediate trail after that requires a boating license, so take the smowmkbonw bypass -stable monorail appears around 3700 feet -unstable monorail and thick ice on .1 of the GRT from the junction to summit (it’s tricky enough we used Hillsound microspikes and George still ate it three times on the descent -summit and all ledges are clear of ice and snow -down low the black flies and mosquitos will keep your pace brisk. We used deet, and will start bringing the bug net Garfield for May and Spring48 ✅

Parking

1. Gate is officially open! (Too bad we were already on the summit after re road walk lol) 2 People. PEOPLE. Pleaseee park like you’re got some sense. When we arrived at the gate there were four cars parallel parked around the lot like it was a rotunda. When everyone parks with common sense, we can fit 12+ cars there. When you park like y’all did today, your asking for bad karma from the universe *rant over*

Water Crossings

Woof. WMNF got a TON of rain this week, and it shows. The biggest water crossing is a monster, so we took the snowmobile bypass, and directed other hikers to it. Also made a few arrows out of sticks for those folks we missed telling!

Wildlife

Four words: black flies and mosquitos. You’ve been warned, pack accordingly

Trails Used

Roadwalk, Mount Garfield trail, Garfield ridge trail

Trail Conditions

Equipment

Notes

Chilly Thursday morning to start but we had hoped to get most of the day done without incoming rain. We did succeed in that as it was all sleet and snow mainly falling on us for about 4 hours of the day. The sleet actually covered the trail in our way back. We encountered some snow and on and off monorails around 3900 feet and used the ghost spikes here. After summiting Garfield we headed down to the Garfield tent site to see how it was looking there since my husband is planning a 2 day Pemi loop with a stay there in a couple weeks. No real snow there . Beautiful shelter! Three bear boxes present too. The GRT is just as terrible as I remember it, Rocky uneven footing and still some ice and snow in a few spots there. The water source was running strong.

Parking

Plenty at the winter lot at the top of closed Gale River road . The road itself has had some recent blow down removal . Maybe the gate will open soon??

Water Crossings

Both on the Mount Garfield trail were rock hops

Wildlife

No bugs seen today :)

Trails Used

Gale River Road, Garfield Trail, Garfield Ridge Trail

Trail Conditions

Notes

Dry down low, way more puddles after the midday rain storm. Patchy obnoxious monorail first appears at 3900' becoming more consistent after the ridge junction onto the AT. The last stretch up to the summit was a little interesting but easily made it up and down without spikes. Took the herd path and bridge for the lower crossing both ways

Parking

Road is still gated for no obvious reason sigh

Water Crossings

Easy hops

Wildlife

Alive at the road

Also on this trip

Trails Used

lincoln woods, osseo, franconia ridge, garfield ridge, frost, twinway, north twin spur, bondcliff trail, west bond spur

Trail Conditions

Equipment

Notes

This was a three day backpacking trip of the extended pemi loop from 5/7 to 5/9. I camped at garfield ridge campsite and guyot campsite. The tent platforms were all exposed and there was water flowing at each spring. I had a wide range of different conditions. I used microspikes for a few tricky sections but most of this was bare bootable. The osseo trail was melted with swampy sections above the ladders. Between liberty and flume there was still deep snow and monorail. Between liberty and haystack it was mostly melted with a few patches of snow. Lincoln and Lafayette were bare rock. Garfield ridge was mostly melted with a lot of puddles. There was some annoying monorail left between gale river trail and the hut. The twin way up to south twin was mostly melted. The north twin spur was narrow monorail that was a pain to hike across. There were puddles with a thin layer of ice over them. Between south twin and guyot it was mostly monorail with only a few melted sections. The twinway from guyot to Zealand had a lot of monorail left. The bonds had some monorail, particularly on the west bond spur. The Bondcliff trail below Bondcliff was melted with avoidable snow.

Water Crossings

The crossings on the bondcliff trail were all easy.

Trails Used

Gale River Road, Garfield Trail, Garfield Ridge Trail

Trail Conditions

Equipment

Notes

Hopes that the gate would be open were for naught...the 1 mile road walk to the summer TH went by quickly. You are going to be walking on a wet trail for much of the hike, although mostly about 1/2" deep. From the junction with Garfield Ridge Trail to the summit still has significant monorail, we put on microspikes at the junction knowing that from there to the summit had some steep sections. Cold, windy, and snowing pellets at the summit. Franconia Ridge was socked in, hopefully anyone up there today was well prepared, we were happy to get back into the trees after a short summit visit. Gale River Rd was solid, I'd expect the gate to open soon.

Parking

The gate to Gale River Rd was still closed when we left at 3pm.

Water Crossings

Rock hoppable with a few steps on slightly submerged rocks (less than 1" deep).

Trails Used

Garfield Trail, Garfield Ridge Trail

Trail Conditions

Equipment

Notes

Microspikes handy for maneuvering elevated stable monorail still standing on upper half mile or so. Trail was extremely wet - like walking through a stream in some sections. Road was dry and in excellent shape. Got slightly wet when it started raining about half-way up before donning our rain jackets. Precipitation changed from rain to graupel to rain again and continued for about 45 minutes total, then the sun came out and we were just about dry by the time we reached the summit. Great views and perfect temp!

Water Crossings

Had to step on a few slightly submerged rocks to make safe crossings - fortunately no wet feet

Trail Conditions

Equipment

Notes

Fresh few inches up high, monorail present towards the top. Several foot deep postholes to the sides of the monorail. Breezy and viewless with low clouds, only saw a handful of others all day. Total distance 12.76 miles, 3347 ft elevation gain, 7 hours total time.

Parking

Road still closed adding mileage

Water Crossings

Lower elevations very wet due to snow melt in the trees above. Monorail undermined by flowing water/unstable at times.

Trails Used

Mt Garfield Trail and Garfield Ridge Trail

Trail Conditions

Equipment

Notes

If you're looking for a near spring 4k' experience then Garfield might just fit the bill! Zero snow until switchback 5 (3600') and not consistent until 3900' just before the Garfield Ridge campsite Forest Protection Area sign. Trail runners to the summit then rock spikes descending back to 3900' although the more adventurous people might opt for trail runners up and down as a couple of people did ahead of me. Lots and lots of Trout lilies on the Mt Garfield Trail between the water crossings and the telegraph pole! I've never seen so many! Spring Beauties are beginning to blossom and trilliums are cued up and almost ready to bloom!

Parking

Limited parking outside the Gale Loop Rd which is still closed as there is an excavator parked looking like it's doing some roadwork taking up a couple of parking spots, although I didn't see any activity there today? Fortunately just 3 cars at 8 am and 4 cars at 4 pm so plenty of room for today.

Water Crossings

Easily stepped over.

Wildlife

Several black flies practicing their dive bombing techniques but not quite ready to bite....yet. But may want to dig out or buy some bug dope soon!

Also on this trip

Trails Used

Gale River Road, Mt. Garfield Trail, Garfield Ridge, Frost, Twinway, North Twin Spur, Zealand Herd, Bondcliff, West Bond Spur, Lincoln Woods Trail

Trail Conditions

Equipment

Notes

Car drop traverse across from Gale River Road to Lincoln Woods. Not a long report, just what everyone is here for... The monorail update. Snow line is at ~3300 feet in the trees and still firm. Although warm weather will certainly change this. Decent monorail up Garfield, wide enough to walk w/o concern. Over to Galehead was similar but narrow in places. Frost Trail is more spine like, but able to hop around without too much difficulty. Firm snow and rockhopping up South Twin. North Twin spur is pretty gross. As others have said, thin monorail with a bunch of trees smacking you from all directions. Twinway over to Guyot has no monorail, but a pretty firm layer of snow that at least as of today you could walk on top off. There was one other set of recent tracks, and some old snowshoe post holes. This has the potential to become very very messy as things warm up. Narrows into a monorail as you approach Guyot Shelter. West Bond spur is similar quality monorail to North Twin spur although slightly wider and no trees to harrass you. It is a pretty tall and narrow monorail though that is little more than a shoe width wide on the final approach to the summit. Up Mount Bond was the widest bit of monorail holding firm, and the descent down toward Bondcliff was also the same. Once out of the trees, no snow heading over to Bondcliff. Then a brief bit of on and off monorail to dry ground descending Bondcliff til about 3500 feet. Go get it while it's still cool enough to hold...

Parking

Gate still closed at Gale River Road as expected

Water Crossings

Nothing significant.

Wildlife

Nothing yet, but it's coming...

Also on this trip

Trails Used

Gale River Road, Mt. Garfield Trail, Garfield Ridge, Frost, Twinway, North Twin Spur, Zealand Herd, Bondcliff, West Bond Spur, Lincoln Woods Trail

Trail Conditions

Equipment

Notes

Car drop traverse across from Gale River Road to Lincoln Woods. Not a long report, just what everyone is here for... The monorail update. Snow line is at ~3300 feet in the trees and still firm. Although warm weather will certainly change this. Decent monorail up Garfield, wide enough to walk w/o concern. Over to Galehead was similar but narrow in places. Frost Trail is more spine like, but able to hop around without too much difficulty. Firm snow and rockhopping up South Twin. North Twin spur is pretty gross. As others have said, thin monorail with a bunch of trees smacking you from all directions. Twinway over to Guyot has no monorail, but a pretty firm layer of snow that at least as of today you could walk on top off. There was one other set of recent tracks, and some old snowshoe post holes. This has the potential to become very very messy as things warm up. Narrows into a monorail as you approach Guyot Shelter. West Bond spur is similar quality monorail to North Twin spur although slightly wider and no trees to harrass you. It is a pretty tall and narrow monorail though that is little more than a shoe width wide on the final approach to the summit. Up Mount Bond was the widest bit of monorail holding firm, and the descent down toward Bondcliff was also the same. Once out of the trees, no snow heading over to Bondcliff. Then a brief bit of on and off monorail to dry ground descending Bondcliff til about 3500 feet. Go get it while it's still cool enough to hold...

Parking

Gate still closed at Gale River Road as expected

Water Crossings

Nothing significant.

Wildlife

Nothing yet, but it's coming...

Trails Used

Gale River Road, Garfield Trail, Garfield Ridge Trail

Trail Conditions

Equipment

Notes

Only in New England can you get a summer, fall and winter hike in in a single day (in spring). I'm not trying to be obnoxious with the trail conditions tags, it's really the full package right now. Excluding the approach from the main road (extra 1.2 miles due to gate closure) the snow starts around mile 3. Microspikes were really the heros. The We camped out at the garfield ridge tentsite. There's some significant blow down, but the campsite is navigable. The tent pads are iced over, but the shelter is in great shape. We didn't have any animal trouble, but there were some bear tracks in the snow on a couple of the tent pads. They looked about a week old.

Parking

Gate still closed as of 4/26

Water Crossings

Water is running right now. All the crossings were manageable, though it helped to navigate up and down stream a bit to find an easy spot.

Wildlife

None

Also on this trip

Trails Used

Haystack Road, North Twin Trail, Fire Wardens Trail, Lend-A-Hand Trail, Twinway, North Twin Spur, Frost Trail, Garfield Ridge Trail, Mount Garfield Trail, FR 117, Gale River Road, FR 22

Trail Conditions

Equipment

Notes

Snow starts about halfway up Mount Hale. The last half mile is over a shallow monorail, best in spikes, but can be barebooted early in the morning before it becomes slippery. I kept spikes on halfway down Lend-A-Hand Trail. Twinway starts as bare ground, then a narrow monorail forms, but rocks and roots break it up in spots. I barebooted to just past the ladder steps above Zeacliff where the snow levels gradually increased. Heading up to Guyot there is still a lot of snow, very deep with a narrow monorail forming. The two miles between Guyot and South Twin could still be snowshoed if you really wanted to, but it was fine in spikes. There were very deep week-old postholes throughout, which looked painful for whoever left them. Snow was supportive early in the morning, but I would not want to be out here on a warm afternoon, you'll probably posthole to your waist. Twinway down to the hut is a mix of rocks and monorail with some ice, rock spikes are fine. North Twin Spur, leaving South Twin for a quarter mile, is quite ridiculous at the moment. There is an extremely slippery, narrow, deep monorail with branches encroaching on the trail. The rest of the way over to North Twin is easier to deal with, not great but ok. Frost Trail still is holding a decent amount of snow with a stable monorail Garfield Ridge Trail from the hut to Mount Garfield is holding up better than I expected, the snow-covered sections are never too deep, and the monorail was stable. Plenty of bare sections along the way too, including the waterfall section, where I took my spikes off and picked my way up, easily avoiding the icy spots. Mount Garfield Trail has a stable monorail for a mile, where it peters out quickly, the rest of the trail is a mix of the usual April conditions, - sometimes wet, sometimes dry, sometimes muddy. After the water crossing, I hopped onto an old snowmobile corridor to Gale River Road, walking the road a half mile past the Gale River trailhead where I banged a right and followed the snowmobile corridor over to Haystack Road, and then back to Seven Dwarfs.

Parking

$10 at Seven Dwarfs Motel

Water Crossings

Easy rock hops at the moment

Also on this trip

Trails Used

Garfield Trail, Garfield Ridge Trail, Frost Trail, Gale River Trail

Trail Conditions

Equipment

Notes

Upper Garfield trail has fresh snow mixed with ice, running water and many rocky sections. Barebooting was easiest for me. Microspikes were nice for the steep parts of the Garfield Ridge trail although it is mostly covered with 4+ inches of fresh snow over a solid monorail. It got too sticky for microspikes on the Gale River trail and I took them off after the first steep descent.

Parking

Gates still closed.

Water Crossings

I used the snowmobile bridge on the first brook crossing of the Garfield trail although that was not necessary. Still some icy rocks but all crossing were rock hopable.

Trail Conditions

Equipment

Notes

2400ft elevation gain. Post holed several times. Wind was very strong. First person on trail that day. Total moving time 3 hours 49 minutes.

Water Crossings

High river crossings present but managed to cross without getting wet initially

Wildlife

Caught spider webs indicating first person on trail

Trails Used

Gale river rd, Mount Garfield trail

Trail Conditions

Equipment

Notes

Mixed trail conditions for a spring surprise.. all of the above listed was present. About a half mile from junction to summit is when we threw on rock spikes.. on/off wet trail and snowy remnants..there was a semi stable monorail of sorts, walk around some parts or balance it to not post hole. Past the junction there was a bit more snow to grab there & exposed summit is rock. Lots of moving/standing water, mud and wet leaves at lower elevation you can some parts hug the side trail to get around, you’ll prob step in some slop. Beautiful, windy day up there. Spring conditions at TH but happy I had some warmer layers higher elevation. Haven’t fully retired my winter pack yet … sooooon? 😅🤞 Be safe, happy hiking ! 🥾

Parking

Park before gate

Water Crossings

Rock hopped the brooks

Also on this trip

Trails Used

Galeh River Rd, Garfield Trail, Garfield Ridge Trail, Frost Trail, Twinway, North Twin Trail, Haystack Road

Trail Conditions

Equipment

Notes

Dropped a car a 7 dwarfs for this traverse. Garfield Trail is a highway and we barebooted to the GRT junction. Over to Galehead is way better than it was 6 weeks ago, with the snow levels now much lower.The trail can get a little hard to follow at times, however. Snow was firm and supportive, post holed a few times but no big deal. Continued firmness all the way until descending North Twin. Spikes came off about .5 from the crossing. Went up and downstream, no good spot to stay dry. Can confirm trash bags are useless, got wet anyway. Oh well we were almost done at that point.

Water Crossings

Little River is not very little. Expect to get wet here.

Trails Used

Mt Garfield Trail

Trail Conditions

Equipment

Notes

New snow over mud at lower elevations. Running water in switchbacks. Monorail section with postholes starts at last switchback. Steep climb from junction has bulletproof ice under non-grippy snow. Summit was windfree and nearly cloudless. Helicopter resupply observed at Galehead Hut.

Water Crossings

Water crossings were easy. Skipped on way up to keep dog dry, splashed through on way down.

Wildlife

Dog accompanied on hike

Trails Used

Gale River Road, Garfield Trail, Garfield Ridge Trail

Trail Conditions

Equipment

Notes

It was a tale of 2 seasons. We started in the rain. The road walk and first 1.5 miles of the trail was BARE GROUND. We may have had to relearn how to walk on it. About .5 miles from Halfway rock, the ice began. George continued to bare boot but I donned spikes. Beyond that point, the ice was more present with still some stretches of bare ground. There were many large stretches where the trail was a stream and very muddy. We gave up on staying clean or keeping our feet dry. There were also stretches where we could hear the water running under the packed snow on the trail. The monorail in those areas was very unstable. I busted through a few thin spots. Up higher the trail was more firm and held my weight well. The ice diminished as we got higher up and the snow depth is still impressive. The actual summit has a lot of bare rock. It felt like true spring conditions - a little of everything so bring a good sense of humor.

Parking

The winter lot before the gate was easily accessible but muddy.

Water Crossings

We took both snowmobile bridges on the ascent to avoid the water crossings, which were running high. On the return trip, George opted to cross the first one and was successful. Given that I am funsized and wimpy, I took the bridge. Both of us used the second bridge on the return trip.

Wildlife

Still in Hell

Trails Used

Gale River Road, Garfield Trail, Garfield Ridge Trail,

Trail Conditions

Equipment

Notes

Great day on Garfield! Bare booted from gate for first 4+ miles when we added Microspikes/Hillsound Pro's as we continued on to the summit. The snow pack on the upper mountain was very firm. Kept the spikes on for the descent to the water crossings. The warm temps in the afternoon made for some mud on Gale River Rd.

Parking

Plenty of parking at gate at end of Gale River Rd

Water Crossings

All rock hop-able

Wildlife

not yet

Also on this trip

Trails Used

Gale River Road, Garfield trail, Garfield Ridge Trail/AT, Gale River Trail

Trail Conditions

Equipment

Notes

Met just a couple other parties doing Garfield. Crossings were thoughtful. Snowshoes went for a ride for the first 6 miles...but were put to good use after that! I was glad to have lugged them; the trail was unbroken and the snow was deep enough that the trail sign is still at foot-level. The steep descent from Garfield was interesting with the stream flowing down several icy steps; someone had started to go this way and turned around. I pushed on and was glad I did, but it was tiring. I lost the ridge trail several times with all the schwacking above/under/around blowdowns. I opted to descend when I hit the Gale River Trail junction rather than tack on Galehead. All in all a good, long, quiet solo day!

Water Crossings

Crossings on Garfield trail were somewhat tricky, required scouting to find safest place to cross. The crossing on Gale River trail was much easier.

Trails Used

gale river road, garfield ridge

Trail Conditions

Equipment

Notes

Gale river road was easy peasy. Not much snow/ice. First couple miles on Garfield Ridge were almost completely bare. After the water crossings trail it's a mix of frozen postholed slush that broke under our feet (feet did not stay dry today but thankfully we both had fancy shoes and waterproof socks on), bare rocks with running water, and a barely noticeable monorail. There isn't much snow at all until higher up. Snow was frozen after the thaw yesterday/freeze overnight and there wasn't much ice to contend with. We stayed snowshoe & spike free the entire trip. Socked in, freezing cold summit so summit shots were taken down low as we peacefully blasted music that you'd have to cover children's ears when playing and ran back down not seeing another soul all day. Just 4 b*tches and the quiet sloppiness of shoulder season trails.

Parking

parking at the end of gale river was icy but passable

Water Crossings

First big crossing could have maybe been rock hopped if we had poles (my smaller pup went swimming because she was hot and then had to swim back) but we decided to use the bushwhack/snowmobile bridges. Both bridges the first time, on the way back we only used the second bride and rocked hopped the smaller crossing.

Trails Used

Gale River Road, Garfield Trail, Garfield Ridge Trail

Trail Conditions

Equipment

Notes

The new snow today (3-6") combined with warmer conditions lower, and cold conditions up to made for a very tough day, but until the next storm there's a solid trail made by 3 humans in snowshoes. Go get it before the next storm and while the ice is all covered with snow again

Water Crossings

All were crossed carefully but easily

Trails Used

Gale River Road, Garfield Trail, Garfield Ridge Trail

Trail Conditions

Equipment

Notes

3 fat bikers, one skier, two snowshoers, 4 in light traction After this next snowfall, be aware that once the narrow monorail begins there are several areas with deep snowshoe post holes on the sides. We wore K10s for the summit climb/decent and some form of better than light traction recommended by all in microspikes.

Water Crossings

Nothing is bridged. Used snow machine bridge on 1st; crossed with damp exposed rocks on 2nd