| Hiking Trail Conditions Report |
 | Peaks |
Mt. Madison, NH |
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 | Trails: |
Howker Ridge Trail, Osgood Trail, Watson Path, Brookside, Kelton Trail |
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 | Date of Hike: |
Sunday, October 22, 2017 |
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 | Parking/Access Road Notes: |
Randolph East in good condition. |
|
 | Surface Conditions: |
Dry Trail, Leaves - Significant/Slippery |
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 | Recommended Equipment: |
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 | Water Crossing Notes: |
The Bumpus Brook and Snyder Brook crossings were easy as the water levels are low |
|
 | Trail Maintenance Notes: |
Spruce/fir boughs crowding the Howker Ridge Trail especially between the first and second Howk and above the forth Howk. Small diameter tree across the trail between the first and second Howk and a double tree fall across the trail where the Howker Ridge and Pine Link trails run together. Another small tree across the Watson Path. Some loose rocks on the Watson Path above tree line. |
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 | Dog-Related Notes: |
Trails are mostly dry at this time. The rough mica schist rocks in the alpine zone may be tough on bare paws. |
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 | Bugs: |
A few but not bothersome |
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 | Lost and Found: |
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 | Comments: |
I have always enjoyed the ascent of Mt Madison via the Howker Ridge Trail. I prefer the ascent via this trail over the descent as you can view the way upward as you pass over the Howks. The usual muddy spots were dry today. The waterfalls along the route were meager or dry. The ledge areas were dry making for secure footing.
There are many bare hardwood trees. Lots of leaves on the trail covering up the foot bed which hid rocks and roots. The descent via the Kelton Trail was slowed to avoid slippage due to the thick leaf cover on the trail. Be watchful of the blazes on the Kelton Trail while the leaves hide the path.
Plenty of views today. Lots of hikers at the summit. There were few hikers on the paths I took today. These trails usually see less foot traffic than Valley Way. |
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 | Name: |
WAUMBEK |
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 | E-Mail: |
WAUMBEK at Roadrunner dot com |
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| Date Submitted: |
2017-10-22 |
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 | Link: |
 https:// |
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Disclaimer: Reports are not verified - conditions may vary. Use at own risk. Always be prepared when hiking. Observe all signs. Trail conditions reports are not substitutes for weather reports or common sense. |
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