| Hiking Trail Conditions Report |
 | Peaks |
The Bulge, Mt. Cabot, The Horn, NH |
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 | Trails: |
Unknown Pond Trail, Kilkenny Ridge Trail, Horn Spur |
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 | Date of Hike: |
Thursday, June 13, 2024 |
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 | Parking/Access Road Notes: |
Mill Brook Road (FR11) off route 110 in Stark is in good condition. There are some rocks slightly projecting above the surface and a couple of trees intruding somewhat into the road. Nevertheless, the road is easy to drive on.
There is parking just after the bridge by the trailhead for 2 or 3 vehicles depending on size. Additional parking is a short way down at the turn around at the end of FR11. |
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 | Surface Conditions: |
Dry Trail, Standing/Running Water on Trail, Mud - Minor/Avoidable |
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 | Recommended Equipment: |
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 | Water Crossing Notes: |
None |
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 | Trail Maintenance Notes: |
I cut out a section of a tree fall on the Kilkenny Ridge Trail that was about 3-' above the surface.
There were three other significant tree falls across the Kilkenny Ridge Trail that had walk around paths.
All other trees were at or near the ground.
One bog bridge is on its last legs but is still functional. The two section bog bridge is in good condition.
There is a short section of the Kilkenny Ridge Trail on the north side of Mt Cabot that has water running down loose rocks with much erosion. This is not new. Side trails have developed to avoid the mess. Rock stairs would improve the footing and prevent erosion.
There is some ground vegetation crowding both trails but not obscuring the pathway. Will need to be brushed out soon. |
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 | Dog-Related Notes: |
Fine for dogs. Some dogs may have difficulties with the ledge at the top of The Horn. |
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 | Bugs: |
Not many. |
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 | Lost and Found: |
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 | Comments: |
I enjoy hiking on the northern section of the Unknown Pond Trail as it passes through a nice northern hardwood forest with a moderate grade a good footing. There are some short muddy sections down low on the Unknown Pond Trail. There are rocks and roots in these sections that will keep footwear dry. It is always great sitting aside Unknown Pond looking at the yellow pond lilies and dragon flies while listening to the frogs. There is a good view to The Horn across the pond from the tent site side.
Most of the ledges on The Horn can be avoided by a path on the west side skirting the ledges near the summit. The top of The Horn is most easily approached from the back side (north). The views from The Horn were fantastic. An especially great view of Kings Ravine.
The summit of Mt Cabot can be reached on a short side trail starting at the trail sign on the Kilkenny Ridge Trail. Nice view of The Bulge & The Horn from an open area on the Kilkenny Ridge Trail on descent from Mt Cabot.
Many other hikers on the trail. Most were hiking the loop from York Pond Road. Met a group of hikers from near Mt Cardigan that I previously met years ago On Mt Tripyramid. |
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 | Name: |
WAUMBEK |
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 | E-Mail: |
WAUMBEK@Roadrunner.com |
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| Date Submitted: |
2024-06-28 |
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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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