Ed'n Lauky
Well-known member
- Joined
- Feb 15, 2007
- Messages
- 1,802
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- 168
The book description of this trail is very apt. A very long gradual approach with a VERY steep finish which with the deep snow was interesting to say the least.
The trail is in surprisingly good condition considering that most of it is in the Sandwich wilderness. I don't remember any real blowdowns.
The stream crossings were doable but not simple. You have to be willing to "wade" a bit even while choosing stones to step on. On the way up I went very slightly over with one boot. Darkness caught me before I got back and it was quite an experience crossing that river by the light of a head lamp. Nevertheless, I didn't take on any water on the night crossings. On the most difficult crossing I walked over a rather narrow downed tree that was very slippery. I don't think I would have tried it on the way up, but coming back I had on my MSRs and they dug in well so that I didn't slip. Lauky tried to follow me across on the tree but slipped in. He was on a leash so I was able to yank him out very quickly.
Special equipment: Water Proof winter boots, gaiters, poles, snowshoes. It was full winter conditions with at least a foot of snow at the trailhead and three feet at the top. The trip down the steep section makes for some great butt sliding.
The trail is in surprisingly good condition considering that most of it is in the Sandwich wilderness. I don't remember any real blowdowns.
The stream crossings were doable but not simple. You have to be willing to "wade" a bit even while choosing stones to step on. On the way up I went very slightly over with one boot. Darkness caught me before I got back and it was quite an experience crossing that river by the light of a head lamp. Nevertheless, I didn't take on any water on the night crossings. On the most difficult crossing I walked over a rather narrow downed tree that was very slippery. I don't think I would have tried it on the way up, but coming back I had on my MSRs and they dug in well so that I didn't slip. Lauky tried to follow me across on the tree but slipped in. He was on a leash so I was able to yank him out very quickly.
Special equipment: Water Proof winter boots, gaiters, poles, snowshoes. It was full winter conditions with at least a foot of snow at the trailhead and three feet at the top. The trip down the steep section makes for some great butt sliding.
