| Hiking Trail Conditions Report |
 | Peaks |
Mt. Madison, Mt. Adams, NH |
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 | Trails: |
Valley Way, Osgood Trail, Gulfside, Airline |
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 | Date of Hike: |
Wednesday, March 22, 2023 |
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 | Parking/Access Road Notes: |
A handful of cars at Appalachia, which is nicely plowed (thank you!). When you pull in the lot and you see a car with a “576 Over 75” sticker you KNOW that it is going to be a fun day, and we were happy to chat with Georg, and see the always happy Lucy, at the Hut. |
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 | Surface Conditions: |
Snow - Packed Powder/Loose Granular |
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 | Recommended Equipment: |
Snowshoes, Light Traction, Traction |
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 | Water Crossing Notes: |
Bridged. |
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 | Trail Maintenance Notes: |
As noted previously, three somewhat challenging duckunders on Valley Way. All three will need a chainsaw and two are in the steep section of trail above the tentsite.
We didn’t see the “turn around here or you might die” sign that is right at treeline on Valley Way. It might be missing, or it might just be buried in the snow! |
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 | Dog-Related Notes: |
See parking section! |
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 | Bugs: |
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 | Lost and Found: |
Nothing today. |
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 | Comments: |
Spectacular day to be above treeline as we had about three hours with bright sun and almost no wind. Wowza!
Valley Way below treeline is mostly consolidated snow and was firm in the morning, but soft on our return. No significant ice below treeline. Snowshoes are definitely needed with the warm temperatures, particularly for an afternoon descent.
Above treeline it is dealer’s choice with regard to footwear. You really can’t make a wrong choice (snowshoes or light traction or full crampons) noting that at least 40% of the time you will want to be wearing what you are not currently wearing. No deep snow but some mushy sections, no significant ice but some areas of thin ice cover and crust.
Two hikers came up Airline from Appalachia and said that it was well packed, not drifted, and that they had successfuly ascended it in light traction. One hiker added Jefferson onto Madison and Adams and told us that he needed snowshoes for the snowfield.
Super fun to see Hiker Dad for the second time this week (and to actually get a chance to chat this time!!) |
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 | Name: |
Bikecamphikegirl |
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 | E-Mail: |
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| Date Submitted: |
2023-03-22 |
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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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