| Hiking Trail Conditions Report |
 | Peaks |
Wildcat A-B-C-D-E, NH |
|
 | Trails: |
Lost Pond Trail : Wildcat Ridge Trail |
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 | Date of Hike: |
Monday, June 29, 2026 |
|
 | Parking/Access Road Notes: |
Still room in the AMC Pinkham Notch lot at 8:15AM. |
|
 | Surface Conditions: |
Dry Trail, Mud - Minor/Avoidable |
|
 | Recommended Equipment: |
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|
 | Water Crossing Notes: |
No significant water crossings other than the bridged crossing in the wetland near the start of the Lost Pond Trail |
|
 | Trail Maintenance Notes: |
No obstructions on the trail. One evergreen recently cut on the Wildcat Ridge Trail.
The bog bridges on both trails range from good condition to deteriorated/broken planks.
New sign at junction of Lost Pond and Wildcat Ridge Trail.
An iron rung would make an easier and safer ascent up the rock chimney for hikers carrying a large pack. |
|
 | Dog-Related Notes: |
May be difficult for some dogs due to the steep ledges and chimney.
Water sources may be scarce although today some water can be found in a few spots. |
|
 | Bugs: |
Some black flies around 4,000 feet. |
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 | Lost and Found: |
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|
 | Comments: |
The trails were drier than I anticipated. There were still some small mud spots that were easy to get by. The usual wet area by the Wildcat A overlook was dry.
The Wildcat Ridge Trail is rough and steep in many stretches, especially the section between Pinkham Notch and Wildcat E. Some of the steep ledges have wooden steps or chiseled out footholds to facilitate safe footing. These ledges are challenging when wet or icy. Some of the rocks have been arranged as steps to provide better footing.
The Wildcat lift was closed. There are some chairs for viewing in the ski area clearing below Peak D. There is a small hole in the Peak D observation platform. It should cause no problem.
Saw Yellow Pond Lilies in Lost Pond. Also saw Bunchberries, Labrador Tea, Bluebead Lily, Canada Mayflower, and Raspberries in bloom.
A good number of hikers on the trail. The most ambitious was John from Nashua who was hiking out and back from route 16 to South Carter. Another hiker did a loop trip over the Carters and Wildcats. Others were using the ski slope. Met two AT thru hikers.
Great views from many ledges along the ridge as well as a good view from Lost Pond. |
|
 | Name: |
WAUMBEK |
|
 | E-Mail: |
waumbek1@charter.net |
|
| Date Submitted: |
2026-06-29 |
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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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