stu
New member
My son in law (Jeff) and I tagged N. Kinsman saturday 11/26 for #23 on "the list", but were turned back before completing our trip as planned. I had hoped to do the usual hike and hit the North and South Kinsman summits, via Fishin Jimmy and Kinsman Ridge Trail. Several unexpected factors conspired to force us to reconsider our plans. 
First, we got a late start and lost an hour at the start. We wanted to start by 7:30 and did'nt leave until 8:30. At this time of the year, the shortened day becomes a factor. Next, we did not make good time due to the snow conditions. At about a mile from the summit we hit about 18" of unconsolidated powder. It was nice hiking in the soft powder, but we could'nt make good time. It was socked in and snowing when we made the summit and were grabbing a quick bite to eat shortly before 1:00. When we saw the trail to South unbroken, we knew we were not going any further. As much as I wanted to get #24, we did the smart thing and retreated. We were quickly getting cold and did not want to be hiking out after dark. This was a good warm-up hike for the winter season, we re-learned a few lessons and now will have to make a return trip!
First, we got a late start and lost an hour at the start. We wanted to start by 7:30 and did'nt leave until 8:30. At this time of the year, the shortened day becomes a factor. Next, we did not make good time due to the snow conditions. At about a mile from the summit we hit about 18" of unconsolidated powder. It was nice hiking in the soft powder, but we could'nt make good time. It was socked in and snowing when we made the summit and were grabbing a quick bite to eat shortly before 1:00. When we saw the trail to South unbroken, we knew we were not going any further. As much as I wanted to get #24, we did the smart thing and retreated. We were quickly getting cold and did not want to be hiking out after dark. This was a good warm-up hike for the winter season, we re-learned a few lessons and now will have to make a return trip!
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