| Hiking Trail Conditions Report |
 | Peaks |
Stairs Mountain, NH |
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 | Trails: |
Rocky Branch Trail, Stairs Col Trail, Davis Path, Stairs Spur |
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 | Date of Hike: |
Wednesday, August 5, 2020 |
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 | Parking/Access Road Notes: |
Parked at the new lot at the end of Jericho road, which adds 1.75 miles to the hike. The lot was empty when I arrived, and saw 1 other car when I returned. |
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 | Surface Conditions: |
Dry Trail, Wet Trail, Wet/Slippery Rock, Mud - Minor/Avoidable |
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 | Recommended Equipment: |
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 | Water Crossing Notes: |
A day after the rain, Rocky Branch was running high and muddy. Crossed on the damaged Forest Service bridge. On the west bank, Lower Stairs brook (before the shelter) was a challenge to cross with dry feet. But not dangerous. |
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 | Trail Maintenance Notes: |
The Rocky Branch trail hiked (to the shelter) was generally dry and in excellent condition. Stairs Col trail was wet and slippery near the top, otherwise fine. The Davis Path between Stairs Col and the Stairs side trail was generally dry, but wet where it climbs the ridge. All trails were easy to follow. |
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 | Dog-Related Notes: |
Saw one medium sized dog on its way in as I hiked out. Advised owner he would have to lift his dog - and himself - up onto the bridge deck to cross Rocky Branch river. Standing in the washed-out approach to the bridge, the deck was at my chin level. About a 5 ft height. |
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 | Bugs: |
Few bugs to slap today. |
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 | Lost and Found: |
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 | Comments: |
Great views from Giant Stairs. Crossing Rocky Branch river can be a challenge when the water is up, which it has been for much of the summer. The river was too high weds for safe wading, but damaged bridge still allows a secure crossing. Railing posts attached to the bridge deck provided hand holds for pulling yourself up. Most of the wet trail sections will be dry by now. Met no other hikers after crossing the river. Shelter #1 is in excellent condition, and getting light use. |
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 | Name: |
tom fernald |
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 | E-Mail: |
tomfern55@rocketmail.com |
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| Date Submitted: |
2020-08-06 |
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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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