| Hiking Trail Conditions Report |
 | Peaks |
Mt. Adams, Mt. Jefferson, NH |
|
 | Trails: |
Castle Trail, Israel Ridge Trail, Castle Ravine Trail, Gulfside, Jefferson Loop, Lowe's Path, Spur Trail, Randolph Path, Cabin Cut Off, Cabin-Cascade Trail |
|
 | Date of Hike: |
Sunday, August 15, 2010 |
|
 | Parking/Access Road Notes: |
Bowman lot in good shape. |
|
 | Surface Conditions: |
Dry Trail, Wet Trail, Wet/Slippery Rock, Mud - Minor/Avoidable, Standing/Running Water on Trail |
|
 | Recommended Equipment: |
|
|
 | Water Crossing Notes: |
There are many water crossings in Castle Ravine. The most difficult was the first crossing on the Castle Ravine Trail. This crossing used irregularly shaped rocks and rocks below water level. In higher water this crossing would be quite difficult. Some of the other crossings required care in rock selection. Some rocks rolled when stepped upon. Take care on river crossings. If the crossing of the Israel river is difficult on the Castle Trail, then expect even more difficulty on the Castle Ravine Trail river crossing. |
|
 | Trail Maintenance Notes: |
Generally all trails in good condition. Some trimming needed on the Israel Ridge Path in a few spots. One rung of a log ladder near the bottom of the Spur Trail is broken but does not cause any difficulties. |
|
 | Dog-Related Notes: |
|
|
 | Bugs: |
None. |
|
 | Lost and Found: |
One blue Nalgene water bottle on Castle Ravine Trail. |
|
|
|
|
 | Comments: |
All trails were clear of obstructions. The swath of trees toppled in Castle Ravine provides testament to the power of an avalanche. Watch for the faded red markings and cairns to follow the Castle Ravine Trail up the steep headwall. I found the footing to be secure on this dry day. Mountain Avens in bloom at the top of the ravine. The Spur Trail is a good alternative to the Lowe Path for descent. Nobody was at Crag Camp when I stopped in. Knight's Castle and Lower Crag provide good viewpoints for King Ravine. The Cabin-Cascade Trail had sections of spongy moss, slippery rocks, steep down slope at the trail's edge in spots, and a footway that frequently blended in to the rest of the forest. On the down hill walk on the Israel Ridge Path make sure to bear right when meeting the Link Trail. A left can be taken for a sort walk for a view of First Cascade. All in all, the walks on the less travelled paths were a delight. The Israel Ridge Path, Castle Ravine, Spur, and Cabin-Cascade are all gems of the northern Presidentials where you most likely will see few other hikers. |
|
 | Name: |
WAUMBEK |
|
 | E-Mail: |
WAUMBEK at Roadrunner dot com |
|
| Date Submitted: |
2010-08-15 |
|
 | Link: |
 https:// |
|
|
Disclaimer: Reports are not verified - conditions may vary. Use at own risk. Always be prepared when hiking. Observe all signs. Trail conditions reports are not substitutes for weather reports or common sense. |
|
