Mt Washington (not a summit day) via a Lion Head Trails Loop - 1/12

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NH Tramper

Member
Joined
Apr 10, 2012
Messages
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Location
North Conway, NH Avatar: Cannon Mtn.
Date of Hike: January 12, 2014

Trails: Tuckerman Ravine, and Lion Head (summer and winter) Trails

Trail Conditions: Amazingly there was a blowdown on the Tuckerman Ravine Trail, very close to the PNVC... but that one was it, and it was an easy-over. Also on that trail was snow, ice, slush, and running water. We took the Fire Road to the start of the Lion Head winter route for our ascent. Conditions were really thin and bony; ice, little snow, rock. Not the typical expectation, for sure. It was still steep and fun, though. In light of this, the fact that avy conditions dropped to Low at midnight, and after speaking with Jeff Lane (snow ranger), we decided to descend via the summer route, making life easier on our charges. The summer route was less impacted by traffic, had more snow, less ice, and was in good condition. And upon sighting the avy slide route, we realized that at least for today, we'd be safe. Snow, in round form, was falling during this hike so conditions may change soon.

Special Equipment Used: We brought trekking poles, ice axes, small spikes, crampons, even a hand rope. We used it all. Snowshoes were not needed -- and skis wouldnt be great up there right now either.

Comments: Hiked this one as lead for my work. Great group, fun times... even though we didn't summit; the snow and wind made it an interesting and exciting day.

Mike "Tramper" Cherim
North Conway NH
 
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