Hiking Trail Conditions Report |
| Peaks |
Cannon Mountain, NH |
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| Trails: |
Kinsman Ridge Trail |
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| Date of Hike: |
Sunday, June 3, 2018 |
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| Parking/Access Road Notes: |
There was a sign at the tramway parking area directing hikers to park in the dirt lot right at the Kinsman Ridge trailhead- the tram lot was closed to hikers. Good in my book- put my group and I closer to the trailhead. |
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| Surface Conditions: |
Dry Trail, Wet/Slippery Rock, Mud - Minor/Avoidable, Mud - Significant |
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| Recommended Equipment: |
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| Water Crossing Notes: |
No crossings. |
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| Trail Maintenance Notes: |
LOTS of erosion/damage. See comments below |
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| Dog-Related Notes: |
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| Bugs: |
Not bad due to the mild temperature and breezy wind. |
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| Lost and Found: |
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| Comments: |
The Kinsman Ridge Trail from the tram lot to Cannon Mountain has seen better days. The erosion and damage to this trail, particularly the lower half, is the worst I've seen it in the seven years I've been hiking it, and the October storm last year probably had something to do with it. Some people might say it needs a lot of work, but honestly, I think there's no saving this trail. Just not worth fixing, IMO- the work that would need to be done to the trail to restore it isn't worth doing. I personally think this section of the Kinsman Ridge Trail should either be closed or abandoned. It's already in very poor shape, and the number of hikers in the Whites and on the 4,000 footers continues to rise. Closing or abandoning it would allow the area to naturally recover without human intrusion.
Trail issues aside, the weather was great for this hike, and the views from the summit and nearby outlooks were superb. The layover in the upper tramway station was nice after that rugged climb to the top.
Thanks to Chad P. and Ari N. for a day well spent in the White Mountains!
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| Name: |
Spencer |
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| E-Mail: |
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| Date Submitted: |
2018-06-03 |
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| Link: |
https:// |
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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. |
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