| Hiking Trail Conditions Report |
 | Peaks |
Mt. Garfield, NH |
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 | Trails: |
Gale River Road, Garfield Trail, Garfield Ridge Trail |
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 | Date of Hike: |
Sunday, November 26, 2023 |
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 | Parking/Access Road Notes: |
Gate is closed. Winter parking in effect! |
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 | Surface Conditions: |
Snow - Trace/Minimal Depth, Snow - Packed Powder/Loose Granular |
|
 | Recommended Equipment: |
Light Traction |
|
 | Water Crossing Notes: |
The first water crossing was slightly more challenging than usual because it's not yet frozen solid yet, but some of the rocks normally used for rock-hopping are. Not anything to be concerned about, just a tad harder than usual. The other water crossing is fine. |
|
 | Trail Maintenance Notes: |
N/A |
|
 | Dog-Related Notes: |
Didn't see any. |
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 | Bugs: |
Also didn't see any. |
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 | Lost and Found: |
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|
 | Comments: |
What a gorgeous day for Garfield today. The gate is now closed, so the road walk is in effect. Below ~2,000', snow is minimal/trace. There definitely isn't enough snow there for spikes. Between about 2,000' and the junction with the Garfield Ridge Trail, I'd call it dealer's choice. I chose to bare-boot all the way to the Garfield Ridge Trail on the way up since the trail was well-packed, the snow wasn't icy, and my boots were gripping well (though on the descent, when I tend to go for stronger traction, I kept spikes on until about 2,000'), but a reasonable hiker could choose to put on spikes anywhere between 2,000'-ish and the ridge. Spikes almost certainly needed for the steeper pitch from the junction of the Mt. Garfield and Garfield Ridge Trails to the summit. At the trailhead, snow is maybe 1" deep off to the side of the trail. By 4,000', it's probably in the 6-8" range. Snowshoes not yet needed (imho, unless you really like them), but it won't be long until they are. The snow above about 3,500' is somewhat loose such that an additional snowstorm would make it snowshoe territory, but right now it's fine for either bare-booting or spikes depending upon personal preference. |
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 | Name: |
IanB |
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 | E-Mail: |
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| Date Submitted: |
2023-11-26 |
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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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