Jackson, Pierce, Eisenhower, Monroe, Washington, Jefferson, Adams, Madison 1.17.15

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Bombadil

Active member
Joined
Nov 5, 2009
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Location
Groton, MA
1.17.15
With the rather brisk forecast for the morning and all signs pointing to the afternoon being warmer and calmer a few of us did a south to north traverse. Microspikes were worn by 2 of the 3 car to car (plus 1 that wasn't feeling it and bailed down the ammo). I swapped to crampons at lakes of the clouds and kept them on til Madison.

All trails below treeline were well packed. Heavy drifting between jackson and pierce though the snow was very light density so easy to just charge through. A good bit of ice above treeline starting around Eisenhower with plenty of rock still showing. We used snow fields off Monroe to make a direct line for the hut--that was the coldest part of the day for sure (grimace mode). As we worked up Washington the wind began to die down making for a much more pleasant hike. We went over clay which had deep uncolsolidated drifts in places.

As expected the snow fields just north of the loop trail descending Jefferson made for a fast descent. We used a similar approach descending star lake trail, taking the quite steep windblown snow fields down. Down low it was deep powder with virtually no sign of previous travel. If ascending you'll need snowshoes for sure. Valley way had a very nice layer of packed powder which made for a fast and easy on the body descent.

Quite the day out there. Started off as one of the coldest and harshest hikes and by the end of the day it turned into a mellow stroll with a light breeze. Feeling blessed to know so many strong hikers to have such adventures with--thanks Dan, Jason, and Jeff for a great day out there!

Pat
Pcushing21 at yahoo dot com
 
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