vegematic
Active member
Date of Hike: 7 August 2009
Trail Conditions:
Downes Brook Trail-Many water water crossings down low were a bit challenging for short-legged me, but no issue for my taller companion. Trail was otherwise dry and pleasant walking
Rollins Trail (and others along the ridge)-Pretty clear sailing, a few mudholes but easy to negotiate.
Square Ledge Trail, Passaconaway Cutoff, Oliverian Brook Trail-Dry up high, steep and gravelly, rocky. All junctions well signed. Water crossing on Pass. cutoff was no problem. Down low there were several mud holes and a somewhat overflowing beaver dam but all were crossed with dry feet using some care.
Special Equipment Required: Poles useful for balance when crossing streams and mud. Maybe carry an extra set of socks if you are not very good at water crossings and likely to step in.
Comments: Optional - This was a beautiful 14-mile loop. I've not hiked these mountains from the more usual Ferncroft trail head but if you are up for the mileage, consider this northern approach. With the exception of the steep, rocky descent of the Passaconaway summit cone all grades were gradual or moderate and the treadway was good.
Your name: vegematic
Trail Conditions:
Downes Brook Trail-Many water water crossings down low were a bit challenging for short-legged me, but no issue for my taller companion. Trail was otherwise dry and pleasant walking
Rollins Trail (and others along the ridge)-Pretty clear sailing, a few mudholes but easy to negotiate.
Square Ledge Trail, Passaconaway Cutoff, Oliverian Brook Trail-Dry up high, steep and gravelly, rocky. All junctions well signed. Water crossing on Pass. cutoff was no problem. Down low there were several mud holes and a somewhat overflowing beaver dam but all were crossed with dry feet using some care.
Special Equipment Required: Poles useful for balance when crossing streams and mud. Maybe carry an extra set of socks if you are not very good at water crossings and likely to step in.
Comments: Optional - This was a beautiful 14-mile loop. I've not hiked these mountains from the more usual Ferncroft trail head but if you are up for the mileage, consider this northern approach. With the exception of the steep, rocky descent of the Passaconaway summit cone all grades were gradual or moderate and the treadway was good.
Your name: vegematic
