| Hiking Trail Conditions Report |
 | Peaks |
Mt. Jefferson, NH |
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 | Trails: |
Castle Trail, Castle Ravine Trail, The Cornice, Jefferson Loop, Gulfside, Israel Ridge Path |
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 | Date of Hike: |
Friday, August 15, 2025 |
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 | Parking/Access Road Notes: |
The Bowman lot was almost full Friday morning. |
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 | Surface Conditions: |
Dry Trail |
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 | Recommended Equipment: |
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 | Water Crossing Notes: |
There are several water crossings on this route. In particular, Castle Ravine Trail crosses Castle Brook several times. Crossings were not a problem on my hike, but worth considering if the water is higher. |
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 | Trail Maintenance Notes: |
Israel Ridge Path needs brushing in sections. Otherwise, trails are in great shape. |
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 | Dog-Related Notes: |
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 | Bugs: |
Not a problem. |
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 | Lost and Found: |
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 | Comments: |
Route was Castle Trail > Castle Ravine Trail > The Cornice > Jefferson Loop > Gulfside > Israel Ridge Path (down) > Castle Trail (out). This was definitely the long way to Jefferson, but exploring lesser used trails has its own rewards.
Castle Ravine Trail is particularly wonderful. The lower 3/4 of the trail has abundant cascades and water crossings. The upper 1/4 is a steep, rocky scramble. The trail is marked by cairns and occasional orange blazes on rocks, but it can be difficult to stay on trail. (Pro tip: Orange lichen looks a lot like orange paint. Don't be fooled.)
Israel Ridge Path is another beautiful trail. If you are trying to get back to Bowman, it's a more gradual descent than either Castle Trail or Castle Ravine Trail. It does have some steep bits, but many of those sections have a ladder or stairs. |
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 | Name: |
Duct Tape |
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 | E-Mail: |
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| Date Submitted: |
2025-08-16 |
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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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