Hancock's - which direction?

[sapblatt]

Would like to hear anyone's opinion/preference on which direction to take the loop?

It seems to me that it is steep either way, but I am guessing that descending the north side may be longer and gentler.

Any input is appreciated!

 

[bobandgeri]

We have always done it clockwise.

 

[sweeper]

Counterclockwise

 

[poison ivy]

I've always hiked the Hancocks when there is snow on the ground so I like going up north and down south -- the path on the south is wider and there are fewer trees to worry about when glissading. I think you should save it for winter... it's my favorite glissading peak!

- Ivy

 

[dr_wu002]

I've done it several times in both directions. I don't think it matters too much but I guess I'd say that going to South first is easier. Going down North is kind of a pain though -- the terrain is pretty eroded and can be loose and rocky. It's a pretty easy hike though.

-Dr. Wu

 

[dr_wu002]

I've always hiked the Hancocks when there is snow on the ground so I like going up north and down south -- the path on the south is wider and there are fewer trees to worry about when glissading. I think you should save it for winter... it's my favorite glissading peak!

- Ivy

Oh My -- I went down South on my Swiss Bob last winter and it was a BLAST! that was by far the most fun trail to take the bobsled on. Going up North was a quad/calf buster though, but not too hard!

-Dr. Wu

 

[Double Bow]

I say go up the south first. I perfer going down the loose conditions on the north. Pefect way to get down faster rather than fighting it to get up.

 

[poison ivy]

Oh My -- I went down South on my Swiss Bob last winter and it was a BLAST! that was by far the most fun trail to take the bobsled on. Going up North was a quad/calf buster though, but not too hard!

-Dr. Wu

I was jealous seeing everyone with the Swiss Bobs this winter ... I am definitely going to have to pick one up for my annual glissading trip to the Hancocks next winter.

- Ivy

 

[Head]

North to South: for easier hike
South to North: To save the views for last...

 

[adamiata]

I did the Hancocks last January going up the North peak and down the South peak. There was plenty of snow, so I can't comment on the footing, but the North seemed steeper and narrower, as others have said. I usually find it easier to go up steep slopes rather than down the, so my vote is for clockwise.

Doesn't seem to be much of a consensus so far.

 

[NH_Mtn_Hiker]

Clockwise

I agree with those who agree clockwise is best, don't you agree.

 

[dms]

The first time I did them back in 1984, our group went North to South, so being a creature of habit, every time I've done them since, it's been the same way.

 

[Gris]

In perfect weather you might want to go counterclockwise and save the views. In anything less than perfect I'd go clockwise since the North fork is steep. But in the final analysis I would say save it for winter. I lost my "glissading virginity" on South Hancock and I will forever love her for that.

Ps -Swiss bob? I don't need no stinkin Swiss bob!

 

[Sherpa John]

Mike... I know a little bit about your hiking abilities, likes and dislikes. I would definately go UP the north first. The south peak has more of a staircase coming down and you might find yourself moving along at a more comfortable pace doing it that way. Plus.. thats how Sarah and I did it

SJ

 

[SteveHiker]

As I recall I went South to North. I don't see as it makes much difference, both ways are steep. Just as long as Soulfest in Lincoln isn't happening when you go, I could hear the bass almost all the way and couldn't figure out what kind of animal was making that noise.

 

[sapblatt]

Clockwise it is

Thank you to all...
Sadly, there will be no glissading tomorrow.
The advice and suggestions have been registered...the winner is...

CLOCKWISE...GOING UP THE NORTH FIRST...MAKES FOR A SHORTER DESCENT!!

Thanks again...I love this place (VFTT!)