| Hiking Trail Conditions Report |
 | Peaks |
Firescrew, Mt. Cardigan, NH |
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 | Trails: |
Manning Trail, Mowglis Trail, Clark Path, Holt-Clark Cutoff, Holt Trail |
|
 | Date of Hike: |
Wednesday, November 15, 2023 |
|
 | Parking/Access Road Notes: |
A sign on Shem Valley Road says the road is “unsafe”. It seemed to be in good condition to me and I have no idea what the concern might be. |
|
 | Surface Conditions: |
Ice - Black, Snow/Ice - Frozen Granular, Mud - Minor/Avoidable |
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 | Recommended Equipment: |
Light Traction |
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 | Water Crossing Notes: |
No issues |
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 | Trail Maintenance Notes: |
One step over blowdown on Manning that has been limbed, but is only about 6 inch diameter and likely could be completely cleared with a handsaw (unfortunately, forgot mine today). |
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 | Dog-Related Notes: |
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 | Bugs: |
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 | Lost and Found: |
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 | Comments: |
Another beautiful fall day and terrific views! Manning Trail is not easy to follow as it climbs a steep scramble out of the woods onto the first ledges. I could not find any blazes or cairns in the area. I ended up going straight up the ledge, as did the two other parties I met today, which is not the correct route, despite finding a small cairn at the top of that ledge (with no trail beyond it). The trail actually seems to go to the ascender’s right and I had to make a short bushwhack to get back on the trail. Snow and ice became fair more significant above that point and traction is essential for a number of scrambles. Spikes stayed on to the summit of Cardigan with only limited areas of exposed rock. The construction project on the summit is very impressive; one of the workers told me the anticipated finish date is 2 - 3 weeks. Descending Clark to the fire warden’s cabin was free of snow and ice, but there is only one cairn and few blazes to show the way. Fortunately, I could see the cabin and found my way down. Spikes went back on for the very icy trail below there until the P. J. Ledge where the trail became a pleasant walk back to the Lodge. |
|
 | Name: |
Jay Baxter |
|
 | E-Mail: |
Jbaxtermdfacs@comcast.net |
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| Date Submitted: |
2023-11-15 |
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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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