NeoAkela
Active member
11/04/2008
Trail Conditions: Howker Ridge Trail nice and clear after beginning muddy section up to about 4000', then icy in spots. Occasional small patches of snow. No need for special equipment on the ascent - icy spots easily avoided by staying to the side or rock-hopping. Madison summit unseasonably warm and in the clear with a view of Washington surrounded by fog. Descent via Valley Way/Brookside/Kelton. Valley way snowy/icy from Madison hut downwards for over one mile - stabilicers highly recommended for this route. Kelton trail covered with leaves and challenging to follow in fading light.
Special Equipment Required: Stabilicers or some form of traction for Valley Way, no equipment needed for ridge trail. Trek Poles helpful for icy rock hopping.
Comments: Since there isn't much green in the Presidentials, this could have been a summer day from how things looked and felt at the summit! Saw not a single soul the entire trip!
NeoAkela
Trail Conditions: Howker Ridge Trail nice and clear after beginning muddy section up to about 4000', then icy in spots. Occasional small patches of snow. No need for special equipment on the ascent - icy spots easily avoided by staying to the side or rock-hopping. Madison summit unseasonably warm and in the clear with a view of Washington surrounded by fog. Descent via Valley Way/Brookside/Kelton. Valley way snowy/icy from Madison hut downwards for over one mile - stabilicers highly recommended for this route. Kelton trail covered with leaves and challenging to follow in fading light.
Special Equipment Required: Stabilicers or some form of traction for Valley Way, no equipment needed for ridge trail. Trek Poles helpful for icy rock hopping.
Comments: Since there isn't much green in the Presidentials, this could have been a summer day from how things looked and felt at the summit! Saw not a single soul the entire trip!
NeoAkela
