| Hiking Trail Conditions Report |
 | Peaks |
North Hancock, South Hancock, NH |
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 | Trails: |
Hancock Notch Trail, Cedar Brook Trail, Hancock Loop Trail |
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 | Date of Hike: |
Tuesday, October 7, 2025 |
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 | Parking/Access Road Notes: |
The Hancock Overlook lot is shared with tourists. There were many open slots just after 8:00AM. The lot was congested at 2:30PM with many tourists waiting to take the next available spot. |
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 | Surface Conditions: |
Dry Trail, Standing/Running Water on Trail, Leaves - Significant/Slippery |
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 | Recommended Equipment: |
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 | Water Crossing Notes: |
All crossings are easy on rocks. Water levels are low. |
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 | Trail Maintenance Notes: |
There are no significant impediments on the trails.
The steep ascent/descent routes to the ridge are eroded in places with loose rocks. There are sufficient fixed rocks for safe passage with careful foot placement. These trail segments are better than conditions many years ago with some trail improvements. However, some of these measures have deteriorated over time. The rock stairs have remained solid.
There are a few leaners diagonally over the trail on the ridge. One is only 3 to 4 feet above the surface. The others are higher up.
It appeared that some evergreen boughs have been trimmed. |
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 | Dog-Related Notes: |
Fine for dogs that are good with loose rocks on a steep grade. |
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 | Bugs: |
Some, but not bothersome. |
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 | Lost and Found: |
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 | Comments: |
The trails were mainly dry. There was some insignificant water on the trail especially near the North Fork crossing on the Cedar Brook Trail.
About 40% of the elevation gain is on 7% of the hike's distance. The steep section is from the Loop junction up to North Hancock. The ridge walk is pleasant with views to Mt Washington and the Franconia Range through thinned out wooded areas. There are also fine views from outlooks at each summit. The Arrow Slide on North Hancock can be seen from South Hancock.
The larches near the North Fork crossing on the Cedar Brook Trail are just starting to turn to yellow needles. Still colorful leaves on the trees and the trail bed. Some trees up high are now leafless.
I met only 2 pairs of hikers on the trail. Nice to hike down from South Hancock with Val and Abby from Derry. |
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 | Name: |
WAUMBEK |
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 | E-Mail: |
waumbek@roadrunner.com |
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| Date Submitted: |
2025-10-07 |
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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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