Mt. Carrigain, 6/12/10

[Lava Lamp]

My 19-year-old son Tony is home for a month between the end of his freshman year in college and the start of an overseas summer job. On Saturday, June 12, 2010 we were among the relatively few people who made the trek up the Signal Ridge Trail to Mt. Carrigain, and for a time we had the summit all to ourselves. Weather probably kept most away. If you don't mind an occasional light shower, though, it was a lovely day to enjoy the play of gray clouds among the green mountains that are visible in all directions from the fire tower.

For my money, the most exciting views are to be had on the exposed ridge walk just below summit. Here's a photo of the ridge, looking up to the tower.

There's a dramatic drop off to the right as you're headed up the trail, with great views of the slides on nearby Mt. Lowell.

Down below, the trail has a few blowdowns, but nothing that's very difficult to get around. The horizontal tree below did catch my attention. The Mother of All Widow Makers.

Finally, this hike resolved an issue that I've been puzzling over for years: at what point would the declining curve of my strength intersect the ascending curve of Tony's? Answer: Saturday. We made it to the summit in 3 hours and 5 minutes. Here's Tony, looking fairly fresh, as if the exertion barely registered.

I'll spare you the pictures of myself.

 

[Mike P.]

Thanks for sharing, I also enjoy being on Signal Ridge as much if not more than the actual top.

 

[bjc]

Finally, this hike resolved an issue that I've been puzzling over for years: at what point would the declining curve of my strength intersect the ascending curve of Tony's? Answer: Saturday.

That's funny. I started hiking the 4ks with my son Ben when he was 13 or so, and I used to tailgate him all the way, urging him on when he made his frequent stops. We finished when he was 18, by which time I couldn't come close to keeping up with him.

Nice report and photos, Signal Ridge is one of my favorite spots in NH.

 

[Lava Lamp]

Can you go up inside the Firetower?

Yes! It's a sturdy structure offering excellent views. Though you don't get the lawless thrill that comes with slipping through the wooden slats intended to prevent access to the Wildcat tower.

 

[Jimmy Legs and Little D]

A fine report and pictures. Carrigain is one of our favorites too. It's a bit of a haul until you reach Signal Ridge but once there the views are outstanding.
We were very fortunate to have a clear, crisp fall day. Also, a must see are the views from the firetower.

Donna