Kurchian
Member
Are you looking for a different hiking experience? Do you enjoy having views for exptended periods of time? How woudl you feel about a descent through a soft grassy meadow surrounded by wildflowers?
If your answer to any of these questions is yes, then consider ascending to the Wildcat Ridge via the Polecat ski trails. The ski trail that Squashman and I chose was the Polecat. It leaves the Wildcat ski lodge and meanders up the north (left) side of the mountain. It was mowed throughout the entire ascent and is a delight to walk.
After 2.6 miles you reach the top of the Wildcat tram station and intersection with the Wildcat Ridge Trail. To bag the Wildcat peaks you turn left and join the ups and downs of the wild and rough ridge trail. When you reach Wildcat A in about 2 miles you are rewarded with a wonderful view down into Carter Notch and the ramparts.
The walk back down the ski trail is wonderful. You are looking straight ahead at Washington with all its ravines and impressive stature.
The day we hiked (Friday, 8/11) was windy and cool for an August day. The temps ranged from 60-70.
The staff at Wildcat have no issues with you climbing their trails.
It is different. But who says you have to climb every mountain on a hiking trail?
If your answer to any of these questions is yes, then consider ascending to the Wildcat Ridge via the Polecat ski trails. The ski trail that Squashman and I chose was the Polecat. It leaves the Wildcat ski lodge and meanders up the north (left) side of the mountain. It was mowed throughout the entire ascent and is a delight to walk.
After 2.6 miles you reach the top of the Wildcat tram station and intersection with the Wildcat Ridge Trail. To bag the Wildcat peaks you turn left and join the ups and downs of the wild and rough ridge trail. When you reach Wildcat A in about 2 miles you are rewarded with a wonderful view down into Carter Notch and the ramparts.
The walk back down the ski trail is wonderful. You are looking straight ahead at Washington with all its ravines and impressive stature.
The day we hiked (Friday, 8/11) was windy and cool for an August day. The temps ranged from 60-70.
The staff at Wildcat have no issues with you climbing their trails.
It is different. But who says you have to climb every mountain on a hiking trail?
