Mt. Starr King, Mt. Waumbek - Starr King Trail - 1-19-2023

Hiking Trail Conditions Report
	Peaks	Mt. Starr King, Mt. Waumbek, NH

	Trails:	Starr King Trail

	Date of Hike:	Thursday, January 19, 2023

	Parking/Access Road Notes:	Pleasantly surprised that the access road to the "summer" parking area was sanded. The road has some significant dips but is passable by all vehicles at low speed and care. Did not need to use winter lot on the south side of US2 west of Starr King Road (signed)

	Surface Conditions:	Ice - Blue, Snow - Packed Powder/Loose Granular

	Recommended Equipment:	Light Traction

	Water Crossing Notes:	None

	Trail Maintenance Notes:	Some tree falls on path. Large (1.5-2'dia) hardwood below the start of traverse. Walk around. Large (~1.5' dia) evergreen on trail near the start of the traverse. Step over. Thin (~3-4" dia) birch just uphill of spring. Walk over on end. Tree across trail on approach to Starr King. Walk around. Two small diameter trees across the trail between Starr King and Waumbek near ground level. At least two large tree across the trail between the peaks at 5' or so above the current surface. No difficulty today but may be a problem with a deeper snow pack.

	Dog-Related Notes:	Fine for dogs. One dog out today.

	Bugs:

	Lost and Found:


	Comments:	The entire route was hard packed snow underlain by ice or exposed ice. Microspikes proved adequate. Snowshoes not needed even off the beaten track. The Starr King Trail has moderate grade (good in icy conditions). Conditions will most likely change tonight and tomorrow due to new snowfall. The spring was flowing. The trees limbs/boughs were all frosted. Great views of the snowy Presidential Range towering above the undercast. The early birds did not enjoy the views due to clouds. Gray Jay at Waumbek. A strong musky smell in the lower part of trail. Lots of hikers out today.

	Name:	WAUMBEK

	E-Mail:	waumbek@roadrunner.com

	Date Submitted:	2023-01-19

	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.