A clearcut with views Bear Mt from Bear Notch Rd 2/5/2010

I was up for an overnight at Pinkham Notch and wanted to do a short afternoon bushwhack on Friday. With shallow consolidated snow conditions in the woods at the time I thought I'd try to bag Bear Mt from Bear Notch Road. I parked short way down from the gate and was heading up ski trail / Forest Road at 12:30. I very shortly observed a rude forest road appearing to head up the spur ridge leading to the summit ridge I had in mind to follow. I very shortly arrived at large fairly young clearcut where I was treated some outstanding views of Sandwich Range from Chocorua to Tripyramids and then Hancocks and even the Captain. I had a late start and the sun was too far west so slopes were in shadow. This view would be best observed in early morning sun to it justice. The slopes aren't properly lit, but I think you get the idea. Perhaps our local members can get there when the light is better using their fine cameras.

Here is Chocorua and Sisters.


Middle shot showing jumbled mass that is Mt Paugus


Passaconaway


Tripyramids


Greens Cliff, Captain, Owls Cliff, Tremont


I continued following the ridge until I reached the summit ridge of Bear Mt, but ran out of time. By 3:30 I had gotten up above 3000', but snow depths and spruce were too much for me. I turned back. The clearcut is easily accessible. It takes maybe 30 mins to get to it.

Looks like a nice time exploring...I do quite like the views...and may have to check it out. It'll be the first time I've made a clear cut a destination...

Pat and I climbed Bear from the Bartlett town line in November 1993. Mostly easy going, but amazing depth of snow for November up on the ridge, along with a postholed moose highway. We found a young clearcut on the ridge to the north of the summit, with great views. It's probably grown in pretty well by now.