Fred Shirley
New member
- Joined
- Dec 21, 2008
- Messages
- 14
- Reaction score
- 4
Trail Conditions: Valley Way from Appalachia to Madison Spring Hut was in ideal winter condition: a firm surface with just enough crusty snow to provide a little traction. Because all the rocks and roots were smoothed over, it was easier for me to hike than under normal summer conditions.
Above treeline on Air Line and Gulfside Trail it was a little more slippery (and unforgiving if one were to slip). But still I felt hiking over the rocks was easier than in summer.
Special Equipment Needed: MicroSpikes were perfect for Valley Way. Above treeline heftier traction (real crampons) were donned by some in our group; but about half of us made it fine in MicroSpikes. Snowshoes would have been a complete waste since there were no snow drifts anywhere. [But after the forecasted upcoming snowstorm, I imagine snowshoes will be back as the footwear of choice.]
Comments: It was an amazing weather day: undercast clouds, low wind and reasonable (above zero) temperature. You can see some unusual photos at:
http://www.nhmountainhiking.com/adams.html
Above treeline on Air Line and Gulfside Trail it was a little more slippery (and unforgiving if one were to slip). But still I felt hiking over the rocks was easier than in summer.
Special Equipment Needed: MicroSpikes were perfect for Valley Way. Above treeline heftier traction (real crampons) were donned by some in our group; but about half of us made it fine in MicroSpikes. Snowshoes would have been a complete waste since there were no snow drifts anywhere. [But after the forecasted upcoming snowstorm, I imagine snowshoes will be back as the footwear of choice.]
Comments: It was an amazing weather day: undercast clouds, low wind and reasonable (above zero) temperature. You can see some unusual photos at:
http://www.nhmountainhiking.com/adams.html
