| Hiking Trail Conditions Report |
 | Peaks |
Zeacliff, Thoreau Falls, NH |
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 | Trails: |
US 302, Zealand Road, Zealand Trail, Twinway, Zeacliff Trail, Ethan Pond Trail, Thoreau Falls Trail, Trestle Trail, Wildlife Pond |
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 | Date of Hike: |
Saturday, December 23, 2023 |
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 | Parking/Access Road Notes: |
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 | Surface Conditions: |
Dry Trail, Ice - Black, Ice - Blue, Ice - Breakable Crust, Snow/Ice - Frozen Granular |
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 | Recommended Equipment: |
Light Traction |
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 | Water Crossing Notes: |
Whitewall Brook was easy; put on spikes for icy rocks. Crossing at Thoreau Falls was a no-go; see comments. Zealand River on Trestle Trail was crossed downstream; see comments. |
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 | Trail Maintenance Notes: |
Lots of branches & blowdown here & there due to all the recent wind events; nothing show stopping. |
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 | Dog-Related Notes: |
Probably wouldn't take a dog down Zeacliff Trail right now, nor do the sketchier water crossings. |
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 | Bugs: |
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 | Lost and Found: |
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 | Comments: |
My Festivus feats of strength plan was Zealand-Zeacliff-Thoreau Falls Trail & out to Lincoln Woods. I will comment only on Zeacliff to Thoreau Falls (and Trestle and Wildlife Pond Trails) since the other trails are well reported on.
I barebooted probably 75% of this hike. Zeacliff Trail was pretty icy in the upper third of a mile or so, but sharp spikes were sufficient. The "steep, fairly difficult ledge" mentioned in the WMG was icy, but there was enough of a toehold - and a conveniently placed tree - that I was able to safely hop down. Otherwise it was a totally manageable steep descent.
I made my way down to Thoreau Falls through spectacular Zealand Notch, Whitewall Mtn. and her impressive cliffs looming overhead. One look at the Thoreau Falls crossing and I just busted out laughing knowing that I had to walk ALL the way back to 302. Gah!! The crossing was just too risky this day: big gobs of what I call "cauliflower ice" which, while incredibly beautiful, was also horribly unstable, fast flowing water, unknown depth, and (gulp) a big waterfall chockablock full of cauliflower ice. I half heartedly searched upstream for about 15 minutes, but there was just no safe crossing. Back to 302 I went...
I did grab Trestle Trail on the way out and was able to do the Zealand River crossing (downstream a bit from the washed out bridge) thanks to my new Wiggy's Waders which worked marvelously. :) Also visited the Wildlife Pond on my way out.
Thoreau Falls Trail: I'll be back... |
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 | Name: |
Snowflea |
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 | E-Mail: |
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| Date Submitted: |
2023-12-24 |
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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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