| Hiking Trail Conditions Report |
 | Peaks |
Mt. Chocorua, Champney Falls, Pitcher Falls, NH |
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 | Trails: |
Champney Brook Trail, Piper Trail, Champney Falls Loop |
|
 | Date of Hike: |
Thursday, January 7, 2021 |
|
 | Parking/Access Road Notes: |
At the large lot for Champney Brook Trail along the Kanc. |
|
 | Surface Conditions: |
Snow - Packed Powder/Loose Granular, Snow - Unpacked Powder |
|
 | Recommended Equipment: |
Light Traction |
|
 | Water Crossing Notes: |
The crossing of Twin Brook and the two crossings of Champney Brook were easily done on rocks today. |
|
 | Trail Maintenance Notes: |
CBT: Overall, in good shape with a few minor blowdowns. Piper and the falls loop had no issues. |
|
 | Dog-Related Notes: |
I guess. I saw one. |
|
 | Bugs: |
Nope. |
|
 | Lost and Found: |
Carried out a water bottle cap. |
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|
 | Comments: |
What a spectacular day this was. I am always amazed when I climb this peak how beautiful it is up there.
CBT: Up to the lower junction with the falls loop, the trail is a packed sidewalk. Above there, it is quasi-packed but snow is still loose. Not sure snowshoes would be a big advantage here due to rocks and water bars still popping up; we need more snow. Fortunately, the rough footing on the switchbacks is filled in enough for easier walking. I am glad this trail has been put back on its original alignment, even if that puts the water crossings back in play. The former relocation wasn't ideal.
Piper: Packed solid to treeline, then alternating areas of windswept bare ledge. Hardly any ice encountered. Dropping off the summit through the gully took some care as the snow was a bit loose. This was the first time I'd been here since USFS built cairns above treeline, which definitely help guide the way better.
Falls loop: The upper half is a bit treacherous, being broken out only by boots and slippery due to loose snow. The lower half is well packed by ice climbers and folks only going to the falls. Champney Falls is running and Pitcher is freezing up nicely; a couple of climbers were there today.
A gorgeous day to hike Chocorua. Views were ridiculous in the clear winter air. Winds were generally light until I stepped up on the uppermost summit ledge, where I got pushed around. A fairly quiet day on the mountain with about ten other folks seen. |
|
 | Name: |
KenM |
|
 | E-Mail: |
kmacgray@gmail.com |
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| Date Submitted: |
2021-01-07 |
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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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