| Hiking Trail Conditions Report |
 | Peaks |
Mt. Cardigan, NH |
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 | Trails: |
Access road, West Ridge Trail |
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 | Date of Hike: |
Sunday, February 4, 2024 |
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 | Parking/Access Road Notes: |
There was less space than usual outside the gate due to People Parking Poorly. When I returned, cars were lined up down one side of Burnt Hill Rd. |
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 | Surface Conditions: |
Snow - Packed Powder/Loose Granular |
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 | Recommended Equipment: |
Snowshoes, Light Traction |
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 | Water Crossing Notes: |
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 | Trail Maintenance Notes: |
The only blowdown is across the access road a short distance above the gate. No issues on West Ridge Trail. |
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 | Dog-Related Notes: |
Saw several very happy pups who were having a grand day out. |
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 | Bugs: |
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 | Lost and Found: |
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 | Comments: |
I've visited Mt. Cardigan in winter many times but this morning was probably the most beautiful I've ever seen it. Absolutely stunning. I needed this.
Trail conditions were also stunning. From the gate to the summit there was an excellent snowshoe track that was packed solid. I opted for snowshoes round-trip as I've been in snowshoe mode lately but I was the only one. Everyone else I saw was either in bare boots or spikes. Spikes will definitely help on the ledges above treeline. The good conditions made for a very quick descent.
Skies were a beautiful deep blue and once out of the trees, the top of the mountain was an otherworldly landscape. The wind was pretty biting though so I didn't stay long. The refurbished fire tower looks great!
Lots of people were heading up as I was coming down, especially along the road. I noticed four who were not prepared for the wind and cold up top (one had no pack at all). I made it a point to mention it to them but that's all I can do. |
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 | Name: |
KenM |
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 | E-Mail: |
kmacgray@gmail.com |
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| Date Submitted: |
2024-02-04 |
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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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