Monadnock -Spring access for geology field trip?

[buckyball1]

Hi all--I have a daughter who's a geologist at Union College in Schenectady. She's looking for potential petrology field trip spots for this Spring, perhaps 2nd/3rd week in May.

Monadnock has been suggested as a possibility and while I've been up it, it's not in my backyard and my knowledge of it limited. When do you think the snow/ice might be substantially gone to allow non-traction device (just boots/trail shoes) ascent? Do you have any trail/site suggestions? Please keep in mind this isn't just you or me climbing, but a group of maybe 10-12 students of mixed physical ability.


many thanks

jim

 

[sierra]

While "spring" is somewhat vauge, Monadnock does melt out fast due to the exposure the mountain receives, most people can handle Monadnock and many children climb the peak in the summer. The state park trails ie. white dot and the white cross are fine routes but horribly busy. I would suggest the Dublin trail, a fine route that may allow you some time to explore and relax on your climb without 500 other people joining you and it is near the lake, not to bad a swimming hole.

 

[Woody]

By the middle of May, I would guess that mud would be the only problem on Monadnock.

 

[sardog1]

The Ossipee Mountains in east central NH are an alternative worth considering -- impressive ancient caldera, with geology field guides online here and here, open for public use, and without the Monadnock mobs. If you're interested, send me a PM for directions to my "secret" access point with ample free parking.

 

[Quietman]

By the middle of May, I would guess that mud would be the only problem on Monadnock.

By the middle of May, unless it's an unusual year, we're talking black flies, not mud!

I would second the Dublin trail, lots of exposed rock and geology on the top section.

 

[Andrew]

Ice may linger on Dublin Tr later than many others since it is on NW slope, also the road may be very iffy that early in the season, especially since 2 harvests are occuring currently on land bordering Old Dublin/ Troy Rd. This is all speculative since how the winter/ spring develops is the biggest factor, just have her call the park at 603-532-8862 for condition updates at the end of April or start of May. Oh yeah, no buses (any +15 passenger vehicle) are allowed by the Town of Dublin on the access road or the lot.

She should consider the Smith Summit Tr, as there is a very interesting Quartzite fold as you approach the summit block. They can park at the Old Toll Rd where there is a fee/ toilets/ ranger to assist, just no buses-but vans are ok. Trails a bit longer from here, but less crowded, good to call ahead as a midweek "reservation" could provide fee discount.

Ossippee Range may be one of the most interesting geological aspects of NH.

 

[Roxi]

Would she consider the Mt. Morgan-Percival trail in the Squam Mountains overlooking Squam lake? It's only a 5 mile loop off of NH 113 and has great views and rocky peaks. Mid May should be fine for hiking that area.

 

[giggy]

wachusett will prolly melt out quicker.

 

[Mike P.]

Mid May should be fine, as others suggested it may be muddy & Dublin trail while a favorite of mine may be one of the later ones to be snow free, some spots don't get much light & they are usually muddy most of the year.

I'd probably opt for the southern approaches or the Old Toll Road, White Arrow trail. I'd want to keep up to date with the ice near where the trail breaks out of the trees but it faces west & gets some sun.

Was there last week & they have much less snow than the Whites & I'd say even less than Concord.

Other choices, Wachusetts, or Holyoke Range

 

[buckyball1]

thanks to all; good stuff, very helpful--may get back to you on this at later date

jim

 

[snoshoovt]

Petrology hike

Barring a spring storm, Monadnock should be no problem. Another alternative it Ascutney via the Weathersfield trail. I took a geology hike there and it's a very rich and rather unique geological place and much of the good stuff is only a short way up, before and at the cascade, makiing the summit optional. If this ends up on the short list, I recommend you or your daughter contact the VT state geologist for info. Not to slight Monadnock, it's a great geological scene as well. Enjoy!
John