Trails Used

Mt. Tecumseh Trail, Sosman Trail, ski trails

Trail Conditions

Notes

Trails were mostly dry with some minor mud. Upper mountain birch leaves are down. There's also a growing carpet of leaves down low. Ski trails are mostly mowed, except for the parts that are hand cut. Foliage at the base is decent, peak partway up, and already dropped up top. Nice colors. Cloudy day with temperatures rising from the 40s to 50s.

Parking

Some of the ski area lots filled up as the day progressed with the Schwendi Fest.

Water Crossings

Crossings 1 and 3 were rock hoppable. Crossing 2 is dry.

Wildlife

A few random clouds up top, but otherwise none.

Trails Used

Mt Tecumseh trail

Trail Conditions

Notes

This was an en route pivot. My original plans were thwarted by unexpected rain and more than expected cloud cover when I hit Gorham and Crawford Notch. I mentally ran through what I still needed for September for G2 and decided on Tecumseh because I didn't get it last month and more importantly, it is so short that I would be home in time to make pizza for dinner. There was a still a slight mist in the air when I started and the humidity was high so everything was super wet. The crossings are still easy but all the rocks were wet. The steps offer wonderful footing even when wet which was much appreciated. I could see blue skies but when I got to the summit mostly everything was still in the clouds. The sun was warm so I settled in and snacked and admired what I could see. I did the little loop around the summit to stretch out the hike. The roots and rocks were still slick and the spider webs were plentiful but it was just so nice to putter around a bit longer. I met quite a few hikers coming up as I descended and everyone was in great spirits and seemed to be enjoying the day. I am glad I changed my plans because this turned out to be just a lovely day!

Parking

I was the first car in the parking lot a little after 8am and there were probably about 10 there when I finished. There is tons of room right now since the ski area is closed.

Water Crossings

All easy rock hops. There was a nice bit of flowing water on the last and largest crossing which was so good to see.

Wildlife

Back in Hell for the most part. I saw a few fluttering about but they weren't bothersome.

Trails Used

Mt Tecumseh Trail

Trail Conditions

Notes

Wanted to sneak a hike in before the noreaster. Everything dry and good views from summit. Super pretty woods as always! This is my favorite route up Tecumseh!

Parking

Room for 6-8 cars in lot off Tripoli Rd

Water Crossings

very easy crossings at base

Wildlife

none - yay

Trails Used

Mt Tecumseh Trail, Sosman Trail, Ski Slopes

Trail Conditions

Notes

Waterville Valley is starting to pop! Walk the ski slope service road down - you won't regret it. Not only have they done a lot of work to smooth it out, but you get amazing views of the reds, yellows and greens of autumn that all those people from away drive hours to see. But do those people hike for a few hours for the best views? Absolutely not. Take advantage of their laziness and delight in the changing colors. The trail is in great shape. Go enjoy. Unless a Nor'easter hits us, then maybe wait a day or two.

Parking

Plenty of spots at the ski area

Water Crossings

Easy to step across

Also on this trip

Trails Used

Greeley Pond, Mount Osceola, Tripoli Road, Mount Tecumseh, Sosman, Ski Trail, Pipeline, Tripoli Road, West Branch Road, Livermore Road, Greeley Pond

Trail Conditions

Notes

Not many people out this morning. Inadvertently entered into the race happening on Tecumseh ski trails. Lead runners were smoking it up the access road! Greeley Ponds had a nice hue to it this morning. Thanks to Chad for the intel on the yellow jackets as well as whoever left the note at the trailhead on Tripoli Road.

Water Crossings

Nothing to note, all easy to cross without getting wet. I was back to my vehicle before rain picked up late this morning so crossings may be different tomorrow depending on how much rain fell.

Wildlife

There are yellow jackets prior to West Tecumseh if coming from Tripoli Road. There is a sign on the trailhead post that tells you at 1.9 miles up before the false summit to stick right in the woods. There is a log with with duck tape marking where to go right in the woods. It’s becoming a herd path now. Could still hear them buzzing even going to the right. If you are coming down from the false summit/West Tecumseh towards Tripoli Road, I didn’t see any markings or notes about the yellow jackets. It will be a couple hundred yards to the left in the trees. Look for where people recently left personal hygiene products and toilet paper.

Also on this trip

Trails Used

Mt Tecumseh Trail, Road Walk, Mount Osceola Trail, Greeley Ponds Trail, Road Walk, Pipeline Trail

Trail Conditions

Notes

A loop I've wanted to do for a while is now checked off, and a good reminder that those ridiculous late night routes you pull together on Gaia can actually be hikable in real life too. The trail are in great shape, even the nasty, eroded descent down the Greeley pond side of Mount Osceola Trail. Greeley Ponds trail back to Livemore is a delightful trip with almost no other humans. Highly recommend it at least once. Bee Warning: On the Tripoli road side of Tecumseh's false summit is a ground nest of some yellow and black things that sting. Luckily only one got me, but they are active. Go fast for 10 yards and you'll be out of their zone.

Parking

Waterville Valley Ski area - Plenty Mt Tecumseh TH (Tripoli Rd) - Overflow to the road, but parking was available. Osceola Trailhead - Hahahaha. No. Be prepared for a roadwalk.

Water Crossings

All in good shape, even the Greeley Pond crossing that was problematic 6 weeks ago.

Wildlife

Just one. It flew directly down my throat. I got dramatic.

Trails Used

Mt. Tecumseh (from Tripoli Road), Sosman

Trail Conditions

Notes

Beautiful cool, almost fall like, day with terrific views. Walked over to ski area. A couple guys were up working on top of the cell phone tower with music blasting and them singing along - a different type of wildlife. Views from Sosman trail were definitely worth the out and back. The outlook mentioned in the WMG by the third hump of the west summit is quite limited now and the path, while easily discerned, is quite “brushy”.

Parking

Came in from Waterville Valley and Tripoli Road is in much worse shape than I recall. Paved section has many deep potholes. Probably okay with low clearance vehicle, but would require caution. Went out via Woodstock. Much better condition in that direction; gravel section there is in good condition and I think it be a better approach for a low clearance vehicle.

Water Crossings

No problems today, but easy to see how this crossing would be more challenging in high water.

Wildlife

None. I did not encounter any of the ground nesting wasps/hornets mentioned in prior reports.

Trails Used

Mount Tecumseh Trail, Sosman Trail, ski slopes

Trail Conditions

Notes

Fine cool September day and many people out there. At the summit, there were about 12 to 15 people, so decided to take Sosman Trail, which is nice and soft underfoot and take in the expansive views from the ski slopes on the descent.

Parking

About 15 cars in Lot 1 when I arrived at 10:15 a.m.

Water Crossings

First crossing is bone-dry. Hadn't seen it like that before.

Wildlife

None. Cool and windy.

Also on this trip

Trails Used

Moat Mountain Trail, Attitash Trail, road walk, Bartlett Experimental Forest trails, road walk, Mt. Tremont Trail, Brunel Trail, Sawyer Pond Trail, forest service roads, Sawyer River Trail, Hancock Notch Trail, road walk, Greeley Ponds Trail, Mt. Osceola Trail, Tripoli Rd., Mt. Tecumseh Trail, Waterville Valley XC ski trails

Trail Conditions

Notes

This is a full report from the Jigger Johnson 50, which took place starting on August 15th, and was a point-to-point trip from the Moat Mountain trailhead on Passaconaway Rd. to the village of Waterville Valley. Trails were relatively dry, which made the Attitash Trail much more pleasant- the most likely places to get wet feet were the Hancock Notch Trail and the Greeley Ponds Trail. Even the swamp just west of the Big Attitash summit had enough logs and tree roots above the mud level that you could theoretically get across without submerging (I wasn't dexterous enough to fully accomplish this). Dry rocks also made the going much easier descending from North Moat, Mt. Osceola, and Mt. Tecumseh. We were treated to relatively temperate weather and partly cloudy skies- perfect conditions to abuse ourselves over 61.1 miles with 15,900' elevation gain. Many thanks to all of the random hikers who cheered us on and blatantly lied by telling us how strong we looked! :) Excruciating details- in keeping with the spirit of the race- on Unnecessary Climb!

Parking

Plenty of parking for the race start in Waterville Valley.

Water Crossings

All crossings, even those of the Swift River and Sawyer River, were relatively easy rock hops. Attribute this to the relatively dry conditions in 2026.

Wildlife

Mosquitoes emerged in the late afternoon / evening hours, but otherwise this was a mercifully bug-free event. There is a known yellow jacket nest on the Mt. Tecumseh Trail, on the steep climb just before reaching the saddle of West Tecumseh when approaching from the Tripoli Rd. side. A 100-mile participant told me that he got stung twice, and many other racers got stung as well. I was given the advice to stay to the right when ascending. I passed this area around 1:30 AM and in 50-degree temperatures, and fortunately there was no yellow jacket activity.

Trails Used

Mt. Tecumseh Trail, Sosman Trail, ski trails

Trail Conditions

Notes

Trails were fairly dry this afternoon with some damp areas from the morning showers. Ski trails currently have high grass/weeds, so the gravel access road is the way to go if using the slopes. Nice summer day with partly sunny skies.

Parking

Plenty of room at ski area.

Water Crossings

Crossing 2 was dry. First and third crossings were rock hoppable.

Wildlife

Minimal

Trails Used

Mt Tecumseh Trail from Ski Area, Sosman, Ski slopes

Trail Conditions

Notes

Every summer I sprint up the stair master swearing this will be the day I break 1:00 up. Every year I just miss it and drench the summit rocks with sweat as I huff and puff for 3 mins to catch my breath. And every year it's totally worth it because I get to walk across Sosman trail then down the ski slopes on a perfect summer evening. Anyway, the trail is in great shape. Whether you like the steps or not, they're a nice change of pace from constantly worrying about breaking an ankle. Thank you trail adopter!

Parking

So much parking in the summer!

Water Crossings

All are dry or very low flow. Step over with ease.

Wildlife

Nope!

Trails Used

Mt Tecumseh trail via Tripoli

Trail Conditions

Notes

A yellow jacket ground nest about 2 miles in from Tripoli rd trailhead. Nest almost at top of first false summit. On steeper section,so inconvenient. They got me both times. Otherwise perfect trails on wet & humid August day.

Parking

Predictable summer busy

Water Crossings

Rock hoppable

Wildlife

See below

Trails Used

Mount Tecumseh Trail

Trails Used

Mount Tecumseh Trail

Trails Used

Mount Tecumseh Trail

Trails Used

Mount Tecumseh Trail

Trails Used

Mount Tecumseh Trail

Trails Used

Mount Tecumseh Trail

Trails Used

Mt. Tecumseh, Sosman

Trail Conditions

Notes

Mud is dried up and water crossings are low. My first time taking the Sosman trail to the ski area. What a lovely trail! Well worth the short detour.

Water Crossings

Second crossing (near beginning) is dry.

Wildlife

none!

Trails Used

Mount Tecumseh Trail

Trails Used

Mount Tecumseh Trail

Trails Used

Mount Tecumseh Trail

Trails Used

Mount Tecumseh Trail

Trails Used

Mount Tecumseh Trail

Trails Used

Mount Tecumseh Trail

Trails Used

Mount Tecumseh Trail

Trails Used

Mount Tecumseh Trail

Trails Used

Mount Tecumseh, Sosman, Summer Alpine Shred Session (definitely not the Waterville Valley ski area maintenance road)

Trail Conditions

Notes

The mount Tecumseh trail is hard and firm. This hike up always leaves me wondering if more rock staircases are needed or should it be returned to the wild. I don’t have an answer but my mind always wanders that way on this hike and it’s fun to have some time to ponder where trail maintenance in New Hampshire is headed. Either way, it’s a fun hike to sweat and say hi to many people who are out enjoying what this trail and peak have to offer. Everything was dry with the exception of some rocks that seemed to have become thirsty near water crossing and sweating. Sosman is a dream and makes me wonder if that is what trails were like 50-100 years ago before becoming eroded. Great views even with the humidity today.

Water Crossings

First crossing after trailhead sign was easy to cross. Second crossing was bone dry. Third one about a mile in was easy to cross as well.

Wildlife

Around but not biting or interfering with an awesome afternoon.

Trails Used

Tripoli Trailhead

Trail Conditions

Notes

Decent hike - not much time to warm up as the ascent starts fairly quickly - trail is well marked

Parking

2nd cat in the small lot

Water Crossings

2 small streams at the start - both easily navigated

Wildlife

Sprayed before I started - bugs were a non issue

Trails Used

Mount Tecumseh Trail

Trails Used

Mount Tecumseh Trail

Trails Used

Mount Tecumseh Trail

Trails Used

Mount Tecumseh Trail

Trails Used

Mount Tecumseh Trail

Trails Used

Mount Tecumseh Trail

Trails Used

Mt. Tecumseh Tr.

Trail Conditions

Notes

Always a gentle, easier route (I think) than the stairmaster from the ski area. Passed six or seven parties all day, which is not bad, considering the traffic arriving at the Summit from the ski area. The summit view is getting obscured by tall pines, but still a great vantage point. We did not see a cairn nor the obscured view of Moosilauke mentioned in the WMG. Minimal mud considering I think it sprinkled a bit the day before. It’s been four years since we hiked here so this may be the new standard, but I noted the Forest Service has placed PortaJohn’s at about four sites along the road or in parking, lots of campgrounds prior to the trailhead; much appreciated.

Parking

Grabbed last space at 11 am and grateful for others who left enough room for an SUV to park.

Water Crossings

rock/hoppable. At the second one on ascent, we walked to the right about 50 feet to cross where it was narrow, then went along the stream shore to rejoin the trail.

Wildlife

We sprayed immediately which helped, but on the summit, the little gnats and mosquitoes were biting, and the black flies sounded like a hovering drone but weren’t biting. If you kept moving, it was manageable although the hubby donned the bug net about halfway on descent.

Trails Used

Mount Tecumseh Trail

Trails Used

Mount Tecumseh Trail

Trails Used

Mount Tecumseh Trail

Trails Used

Mount Tecumseh Trail

Trails Used

Mt Tecumseh trail

Trail Conditions

Notes

The rain let up and the skies cleared on my drive over from Maine. The trail was wet from the rain but was draining well. There are some areas of mud but with careful footing you can avoid most of it. The steeper rockier sections were slick but we were just fine. The footing on this trail is just great. It was a lovely way to spend the morning with a friend and have some time to catch up!

Parking

We were the first 2 cars in the lot and when we returned there was only 1 other. The lot should hold about 8 cars in total.

Water Crossings

Both crossings are rock hoppable but those with shorter legs (translation, me) may need to use a few submerged rocks.

Wildlife

There were some mosquitoes in the parking lot but the trail was pretty bug free. I had a few start to get annoying on the summit but my friend was completely unbothered. Sigh.

Trails Used

Mount Tecumseh Trail

Trails Used

Mount Tecumseh Trail

Trails Used

Mount Tecumseh Trail

Trails Used

Mount Tecumseh Trail

Trails Used

Mt Tecumseh, from WV

Trail Conditions

Notes

Another nice outing with the OTHH, on a great late spring day, with full sun, dry air, and a breeze.

Parking

There were a few cars in the ski area lot ahead of our leisurely 9am start.

Water Crossings

All three were easy rock hops, a bit of a surprise considering all the rain two days before.

Wildlife

The temp was only about 60 F at the start, and there was a light breeze, so bugs were minimal to totally unnoticeable. Up top, the breeze was a bit more, and I just didn't see bugs there at all.

Trails Used

Mt Tecumseh Trail from Tripoli Rd

Trail Conditions

Notes

Mt Tecumseh from the Tripoli road side is very pleasant. Give the path a try if you haven't yet, but bring bug spray. A decent size crew went out today for routine maintenance. The resulting work to keep water moving and step overs absent made for a fun day. It's also always nice to tag a peak and then clean up the trail after.

Parking

Full lot by 7:30 am, but plenty of road parking.

Water Crossings

Two water crossings at the bottom of the trail had rocks that could be hopped easily

Wildlife

One million unfriendly bugs

Trails Used

Mount Tecumseh Trail

Trails Used

Mount Tecumseh Trail

Also on this trip

Trails Used

Livermore Road, Scaur Trail, Pine Bend Brook Trail, Mt. Tripyramid Trail, Pipeline XC Trail, Mt. Tecumseh Trail, Tripoli Road, Mt. Osceola Trail, Greeley Ponds Trail

Trail Conditions

Notes

Camped at the Waterville Campground the night before and can confirm it absolutely poured in the area for 2 hours last night. Despite this, all the trails were in really great shape. The only lengthly flooded spot was the top of Osceola where it's slabby. Mud wasn't bad at all either. Fun way to get everything with a resupply pit stop at the car parked at the Livermore lot.

Wildlife

Surprisingly Few

Trails Used

Mount Tecumseh Trail

Trails Used

Mount Tecumseh Trail (fron ski area)

Trail Conditions

Notes

Great morning on Tecumseh. Rain was on and off throughout the day, keeping the weekend streak going at 8. But the morning saw some sun and enough clearing to see Waahington and Carrigain and Franconia Ridge.

Parking

Plenty of endless room to park at the ski area.

Water Crossings

Two crossing were rock hoppable. A little rain may change that, but not much.

Wildlife

Mosquitoes were out in force. 20-mph winds at the peak were the only relief.

Trails Used

Mount Tecumseh Trail (fron ski area)

Trail Conditions

Notes

Great morning on Tecumseh. Rain was on and off throughout the day, keeping the weekend streak going at 8. But the morning saw some sun and enough clearing to see Waahington and Carrigain and Franconia Ridge.

Parking

Plenty of endless room to park at the ski area.

Water Crossings

Two crossing were rock hoppable. A little rain may change that, but not much.

Wildlife

Mosquitoes were out in force. 20-mph winds at the peak were the only relief.

Trails Used

Mount Tecumseh Trail

Trails Used

Mount Tecumseh Trail

Trails Used

Mount Tecumseh Trail

Trails Used

Mt. Tecumseh Trail

Trail Conditions

Notes

There was an array of trail conditions today. From dry trail to muddy sections and standing water in the trail. Also snow at around 3,500'. The snow made the rocks and roots slippery. It was great to get Tecumseh from Tripoli once again.

Water Crossings

I took my trail runners and socks off and crossed as I could not find a section to rock hop. My trail runners stayed on when I was heading out.

Trails Used

Mount Tecumseh Trail

Trails Used

Mount Tecumseh Trail

Trails Used

Mount Tecumseh Trail

Trails Used

Mt. Tecumseh Trail

Trail Conditions

Notes

Tecumseh from the Tripoli rd trailhead. see not above about Tripoli rd, they probably just need to mill the entire thing and leave it as dirt because the huge bottomless potholes on the Waterville valley end are no fun for anyone. but otherwise trail is in good shape, some step over trees but nothing bad. some mud here and there but considering the recent rain really not too bad either. otherwise nothing too exciting today. Nice afternoon hike once the weather had cleared up.

Parking

Tripoli rd from Waterville valley to Osceola trailhead is not enjoyable, I'd highly recommend coming from the other direction. also people please orient your cars properly in the lot. When I arrived if it was a busier day maybe 4 cars would have fit in the lot because of how the first person parked, we can do better people!

Water Crossings

(from the Tripoli rd side) the two crossings at the trailhead are manageable with a bit of planned hopping

Wildlife

bad at the parking lot but otherwise not much elsewhere

Trails Used

Mount Tecumseh Trail

Trails Used

Mount Tecumseh Trail

Trails Used

Mount Tecumseh Trail

Trails Used

Mount Tecumseh Trail

Trails Used

Mount Tecumseh Trail

Trails Used

Mount Tecumseh Trail

Trails Used

Mount Tecumseh Trail

Trails Used

Mount Tecumseh Trail

Trails Used

Mount Tecumseh Trail

Trails Used

Mount Tecumseh Trail

Trails Used

Mt. Tecumseh Trail

Trail Conditions

Notes

tl;dr no need for pointy things The first patches of packed down ice (not sure I'd even call it monorail at this point) appear just after the final water crossing, just below the lookout over the ski trail. From there to the top, there are very occasional, very short patches of packed down ice. The longest one is probably 20 feet long or so, and all are very easy to hop around on the rocks that prominently stick up through what's left of the monorail. No views at the top due to the clouds/rain midday, but a nice way to get out on an easy hike nonetheless.

Trails Used

Mount Tecumseh Trail

Also on this trip

Trails Used

Greeley Ponds Trail, Mount Osceola Trail, Tripoli Road, Mount Tecumseh Trail, Ski Trails, Livermore Trail, Mount Tripyramid Trail, Pine Bend Brook Trail, Scaur Ridge Trail, Livermore Trail, Old Skidder Trail, Bushwhack, Kancamagus Brook XC ski trail, Greeley Ponds Trail

Trail Conditions

Notes

No traction needed anymore on any of these trails, minimal monorail in col between Osceola's. Only annoying ice is the first 0.25 miles leaving North Tripyramid summit heading down Pine Bend Brook Trail, ice can be picked around with care. Sloping ledge through the switch back descending Osceola had significant glaze ice this morning, expect this to be the norm most mornings until it stays above freezing and dries up. Other than that, trails are in the usual spring conditions for post snow; Mount Osceola Trail is eroded, rooty, rocky through the steeps. Mount Tecumseh Trail from Tripoli Road is a gem - cushy, quiet, and an abundance of Moose poop in the West Tecumseh / Tecumseh col. Ski trails were easy to hike, not too wet and the grass hasn't started to grow yet. Livermore Trail is in fine shape and dry. Mount Tripyramid Trail up South Slide is dry, final push up to South is eroded. Between the three peaks is in good shape. Scaur Ridge Trail is a joy to descend, very nice footing. Old Skidder Trail is short but a hidden gem with a semi-remote feeling to it. I bushwhacked down the abandoned Flume Brook Trail, it has quite a few deadfall blowdowns, a missing section where the trail disappeared into the brook, and an overgrown hobblebush section. Kancamagus Brook XC ski trail is mostly dry. Greeley Ponds Trail a little muddy around the ponds but overall good to go.

Parking

Slowly pull into the Greeley Ponds trailhead, there are a couple of nasty bumps that might uppercut low clarence vehicles

Water Crossings

Easy rock hops

Trails Used

Mt Tecumseh tr, Tripoli Rd

Trail Conditions

Equipment

Notes

Parked at Livermore and walked up the the ski lot. Trip up was uneventful and trail is in great shape. A couple short stretches of ice/snow that was easily navigated without traction, but it wouldn't hurt to us it. Last several yards on the left side loop had a couple feet of snow, but then the summit was bare. Backside was almost completely void of snow/ice. 1 section remains, but again, it was pretty easy to get around it. I cleared a couple of the bigger blowdowns that blocked the trail, but there's some stuff to sidle around or step over. Moose were bedding down on West (I think) Tecumseh and there was several inches of poop to wade through, but I didn't see one. Tripoli rd. is in good shape. Grappled on me almost the whole time, but the sun stuck her head out once or twice and it was glorious. I was very happy to not have traction on and be in my runners!

Parking

Parked at Livermore and it's in great shape

Water Crossings

All easily hopped

Wildlife

Spider webs to the face have begun, but no biters yet.

Trails Used

Mount Tecumseh Trail

Trails Used

Mount Tecumseh Trail

Trails Used

Mount Tecumseh Trail

Trails Used

Mount Tecumseh Trail

Trail Conditions

Equipment

Notes

Carpets of blooming trout lilies in first 3/4 mile. Gorgeous! Also red trilliums and spring beauties blooming. Winter wren, plus black-throated green, black-throated blue, black-and-white, and yellow-rumped warblers singing. American redstart and rose-breasted grosbeak. Blue-headed vireo. Nice set of migrants! Bare boots are fine but monorail still present in places after first mile --I put on spikes for one section then rock-stepped around the ice the rest of the way. My 4th time up -- first time without snow, so marveled at the stone step work. Went left at fork. No snow or ice until small patch near summit. Nice views out to Osceola, Mt. Washington and presidentials. Saw 11 others, 1 dog.

Parking

Easy parking at trailhead in ski lot

Water Crossings

Three crossings, all rock-hoppable

Wildlife

Saw a couple black flies, not bothersome yet

Trails Used

Mount Tecumseh Trail

Also on this trip

Trails Used

Greeley Ponds Trail, Mt. Osceola Trail, Tripoli Road, Mt. Tecumseh Trail, Sosman Trail, Ski Trails, Pipeline XC Trail

Trail Conditions

Equipment

Notes

Fun loop on this drizzly Saturday. Just a dusting of fresh snow really. Not much ice and snow left at this point on the north side of the Osceola. But still enough that I saw several folks descending on my way up in spikes, but I raw dogged it. Between the peaks still has some elevated monorail. Was able to climb the chimney today, that was fun. South side of Osceola is in great shape, with the only snow towards the very top. A bit of a slick monorail for a few hundred feet. Running down Tripoli road this time of year with no cars or campers is bliss. Back side of Tecumseh was in pretty good shape. Some snow towards the top of the false summit, and then consistent on the final push approaching the true summit. Between the false summit and the peak is the most insane collection of moose poo I've ever seen. Literally covering the whole trail non-stop for 20' or so, and then two massive piles. Watch your step! Sosman trail had consistent snow over to the ski area. Ski trails have some avoidable snow which made for a fast descent. I carried spikes of course, but managed to never put them on.

Parking

Parked at Livermore

Trails Used

Mt. Tecumseh Trail

Trail Conditions

Equipment

Notes

Trail is in fine shape. There are bits and pieces of monorail starting about 3500 ft that are avoidable to the side or you can use microspikes as long as you don't mind taking them on and off. The snow on top of the monorail was not slippery today (actually more sticky) and we were able to walk on it comfortably in spots. Both water crossings were easy with plenty of dry rocks to choose from.

Parking

Plenty of parking at the ski area.

Water Crossings

Both are rock hoppable.

Trails Used

Mt. Tecumseh Trail, Sosman Trail, ski trails

Trail Conditions

Equipment

Notes

Shoulder season prevails. If you're looking to blow out the cobwebs, give this one a few more weeks to thaw/dry out, and choose a lower elevation hike. First mile or so was snow free and fairly dry (step stones were installed in the seasonal mudpit/puddle area last year). Patchy ice monorail started a tenth or so before the top water crossing. Needed light traction to safely descend and climb out of the gully, after which the snow/ice subsided for a bit. Patchy spotty monorail above the ski area viewpoint, becoming consistent above 3,000 feet. Not continuous, but the bare areas were few and fair between. Monorail is fairly stable, as a lot of it is ice. Depth is generally a foot or two prior to the ridge (patchy in the adjacent woods), so it'll be sticking around for awhile. Light traction absolutely needed to descend this route. Deeper snow near the summit, about 3 to 4 feet deep on the final uphill of the Mt. Tecumseh Trail side (right at crooked sign) of the summit. Sosman Trail to the ski area had extended areas of firm monorail. Encountered what looked to be a territorial spruce grouse under a large uprooted stump on the trail prior to the view peak, so I opted to bushwhack around rather than risk having it fly at my head. Ski trails have a lot of snow still, but no continuous top-to-bottom coverage. Best covered looked to be Lower Bobby's, which was continuous (other than the access road being plowed); saw someone earning their turns. Access roads have been plowed (apart from the jumps on Stillness), so No Grit is bare/dry. Another nice sunny day with temperatures in the 50s.

Parking

Plenty of room at ski area.

Water Crossings

Rock hoppable

Wildlife

None yet.

Trails Used

Mt Tecumseh, Sosman

Trail Conditions

Equipment

Notes

We barebooted all the way to the summit taking the left side of the loop (Sosman Trail) up. Spikes went on for the descent until right after the view over the ski trail. New snow from last night (and during the hike) was mostly melted out below the third water crossing by the time we were heading out. There’s still some stable monorail up top, but I don’t think that snowshoes will be needed even when it warms up…

Parking

Lots of parking now that ski season is over

Water Crossings

All three were rock hoppable

Trails Used

Mt. Tecumseh Trail

Trail Conditions

Equipment

Notes

Honestly, I expected conditions to be worse today with all the rain and warm temps this week. But, I needed this peak for April. Trail is mostly dry with no snow remaining all the way to the third crossing. After that, it’s a mix of exposed rocks, mud, snow, and ice in various amounts. It’s probably dealer’s choice as to when to put on spikes, but around 2600’ the snow and ice becomes more consistent and it was just easier to use them instead of trying to navigate on rocks around it all. Took the left side of the summit loop up and down. This was almost bare ground for most of it, except a small stretch at the beginning and very top of the loop trail. Clouds and summit fog cleared right around 2pm. Summit itself is totally bare ground.

Parking

Easy. Lot across from the trailhead was empty except for hikers since the ski area is closed for the season.

Water Crossings

All crossings on Saturday were mangeable. The water is running high, so gators helped to keep water out of boots. You could rock hop across all of them.

Trails Used

Mt. Tecumseh trail

Trail Conditions

Equipment

Notes

I know, I know, how many trip reports does one mountain need. Barebooted from the car to just before the descent to the 3rd water crossing. If you don't put them on here, then you will definitely need to after you cross. The snow Is like a sidewalk...packed in from side to side. Evidence of old postholes, but I didn't sink when I stepped to the side. As was previously mentioned, at the summit loop junction, if you go left the trail becomes thick with ice and the slope is rather treacherous. I opted to descend the 'other way' around rather than deal with that again. There are some nice kicked in snow steps to use if you go that way. I started a little after 7am and I think I was the 1st one up, only because I didn't cross paths with anyone else until I was well on my way down. It was still cool and shady enough that the snow never became sticky...just wetter. This is my 7th summit of Tecumseh and the view keeps getting 'better'.

Parking

1st car in lot 1 at 7am. WV ski operations have ended for the season.

Water Crossings

all 3 were easily rock hopped.

Wildlife

not today.

Trails Used

Mt. Tecumseh Trail

Trail Conditions

Equipment

Notes

another nice day on Tecumseh. Patchy snow until you get to the third water crossing then pretty consistent harder packed snow and areas of ice. Barebooted up to the ski area lookout and then put on microspikes from there to the top and then back down nearly to the end. Generally the center of the trail is pretty solid, even going off the edges of the trail are not too soft. I highly recommend microspikes or other forms of traction due to the areas of ice. Saw people going up in sneakers, probably not the best idea. As you near the top it gets particularly sketchy where it is kind of a narrow icy monorail along that steep sloped section, if you are careful it's not bad.

Water Crossings

all are open and hoppable

Trails Used

Mt Tecumseh Trail from Ski Area

Trail Conditions

Equipment

Notes

Barebooted the first mile, then spikes for the rest of the day. Trail is muddy with crunchy ice low, then shifts to packed snow around the 1.3 mile view point. A few minorly tricky spots just below the summit, but nothing too difficult. If you want to stretch your legs and not worry about bad trail conditions, this is the trail for it.

Parking

Plenty of parking all day

Water Crossings

All crossings are easy to rock hop across

Also on this trip

Trails Used

Pipeline XC Trail, Mt Tecumseh Trail, Sosman Trail, Livermore Road, Scaur Trail, Pine Bend Trail, Mt Tripyramid Trail

Trail Conditions

Equipment

Notes

A mix of conditions all day. Mt Tecumseh started out mostly bare ground and wet. Above freezing last night and all day, so rocks were not icy. Solid snow in the morning with no post-holing all the way to the summit. A little ice near the summit and by the ski trail viewpoint. Next, went up Livermore Rd which had a thin base of slushy snow with open patches of bare ground. Bare boot or rock spikes fine here. Ungroomed section had some deeper snow but not worth bringing snowshoes for. Completely bare ground at turnoff to Scaur Tr and up about a quarter mile. Patches of snow and ice further up. Then supportive and unsupportive snow up to Pine Bend and the summits. The most unstable area was between the Tripyramid peaks. Post-holed a few times. Tricky ice sections in places. Snow was more unstable on the way down, which should be expected until a solid freeze next week. Long day out but weather was pleasantly warm for early April.

Parking

Parked at Livermore Rd Trailhead. WMFS parking fee or pass.

Water Crossings

Rock hopping

Wildlife

none yet

Trails Used

Mt. Tecumseh Trail, Sosman Trail

Trail Conditions

Equipment

Notes

Microspikes door to door. By tomorrow, you'll probably want to start in bare boots. Doubtful snowshoes will be needed going forward, although there is a decent monorail in places on the summit loop, and some icy sections so traction still necessary. A few other gridiots enjoying the firm yet moist trail conditions...today gridded out this one for me.

Trails Used

Mt Tecumseh trail, Sosman Trail

Trail Conditions

Equipment

Notes

Tecumseh is such a good choice for a rainy day! Temps were 38 degrees which kept the trail firm despite the rain. There is a lot of ice on the trail down low but the mild temps softened it and I had great purchase with Hillsound Pros. There are some areas of bare ground/rocks here and there but I just kept my traction on. The rain caused some standing water and some areas with running water on top of the ice. Up higher there is a definite monorail shaping up and it held up well under my weight. No issues with postholing today at all. The snow is still pretty deep up high so when the temps warm up, snowshoes may well be needed to keep from trashing the trail. I saw no one today - I guess I am the weird person who really likes hiking in the rain?

Parking

Plenty of room to park today since it was pouring rain. :)

Water Crossings

All were open but were easy rock hops. On my return the water levels were higher but still not an issue.

Wildlife

Still in Hell

Notes

First documented NH48 4000-footer summit. Started at 3:30pm, reached summit at 7:20pm, returned to trailhead at 10:30pm. Gorgeous day with mystical sunset conditions. Clear enough to see sunset timing from summit.

Parking

Skii area parking lot

Trails Used

Tecumseh

Trail Conditions

Equipment

Notes

First White Mountain hike with snow on the ground. No snowshoes needed. Summit had barely any wind and full of sunshine. 5/48 done (tracking 48 peaks).

Trails Used

Mt. Tecumseh Trail

Trail Conditions

Equipment

Notes

Initial plan was to skin up Waterville Valley resort uphill trail, but discovered they do not sell one day passes. Need a Waterville uphill season pass or an Uphill New England pass. Looking at conditions when I arrived the ski area trails looked very “firm” after the rain last night and temperature drop today. Decided to hike up & down instead. Snow is gone or disappearing rapidly below about 2300 feet (in the hardwood predominant forest), but good cover above that. However it was frozen hard and icy; I think skinning up the Mt. Tecumseh trail would be very challenging right now. Microspikes were adequate and essential. Snowshoes went for a ride, although Televators might have been nice for the long steady climb above the ski area viewpoint.

Parking

Ski area lot; plenty of space

Water Crossings

All open, but easily crossed

Wildlife

N/A