Hiking Trail Conditions Report |
| Peaks |
Mt. Passaconaway, NH |
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| Trails: |
Oliverian Brook Trail, Passaconaway Cutoff, Square Ledge Trail, Walden Trail, View Spur, Dicey's Mill Trail, East Loop |
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| Date of Hike: |
Sunday, September 1, 2024 |
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| Parking/Access Road Notes: |
Plenty of room at the Oliverian Brook trailhead off the Kancamagus Highway at 9:00AM. |
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| Surface Conditions: |
Dry Trail, Wet Trail, Wet/Slippery Rock, Mud - Minor/Avoidable |
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| Recommended Equipment: |
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| Water Crossing Notes: |
The water level was low on the west branch of Oliverian Brook on the Passaconaway Cut-Off. When the water level is high, the easiest crossing is a few steps downstream from the official crossing (better rock selection). |
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| Trail Maintenance Notes: |
Trails in good condition. The only tree fall significantly above ground level is a tree of about 4 to 6 inch diameter uphill from the bridge on the Passaconaway Cut-Off. It is still not a difficult obstacle.
Some of the log structures on the Walden Trail are nearing the end of their usefulness as they are in the process of deteriorating.
Lots of nice trailwork on the upper section of the Dicey's Mill Trail by WODC.
Many good sized trees cut recently judging from the newness of the sawdust on the Oliverian Brook Trail before the Wilderness (USFS?). |
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| Dog-Related Notes: |
Fine for dogs. |
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| Bugs: |
None |
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| Lost and Found: |
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| Comments: |
Decided to approach Mt Passaconaway from the Kanc side as I last climbed it from Ferncroft. Figured the parking availability would be better off the Kanc than Ferncroft. The hike using the northern approach usually has less crowds so it feels more like a wilderness.
Good footing for most of the hike with some slippery roots and a few loose stones to watch out for. Lots of mud in various low-lying spots on the Oliverian Brook Trail and Passaconaway Cut-Off. Not so bad in the higher elevations. Some colorful leaves on the trails (mainly striped maple and birch leaves).
Good views from outlooks in all directions. The most expansive views are from the north outlook that is 0.3 miles down a side path from the Walden Trail near the summit. It is worth the little bit of effort if it is not a cloudy day. A bit muddy in places.
The small summit cairn is no longer at the top. In the past it was a small pile of rocks.
Lots of hikers out today. Talked with Brett from N Andover MA who was hiking Mt Tripyramid, Sleepers, Whiteface, and Passaconaway today. Dave from Keene was starting a multi-day trip over the same peaks plus the Osceolas and Tecumseh. Had a nice chat with a couple from Ottawa. |
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| Name: |
WAUMBEK |
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| E-Mail: |
WAUMBEK@Roadrunner.com |
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| Date Submitted: |
2024-09-01 |
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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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