Hiking Therapy on Sandwich Mountain 4/21/12

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PeakDancer

New member
Joined
Mar 5, 2012
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Location
Gilford, NH
I hadn't been on the trail in a month and was in desperate need of some hiking therapy.
Winter is over... finished my NE67 last summer.... now what?
Hmmmm , what to do, what to do.... I guess I could start on the NE Hundred Highest list...

I decided to start off with Sandwich Mountain since it was the closest drive and less likely to still have much snow.
Arrived at the trailhead around 8:45 and there were only a couple cars there. I was glad to see that since I really wanted some peace and solitude in the mountains. I think the cloudy skies and forecast of rain and thunderstorms likely kept many people away.

I took Sandwich Mountain trail and only passed 2 others the whole way up.
Nice views from Noon Peak although the summits of most mountains around were in the clouds. As I got higher up on Sandwich, it got cloudier and cooler. The damp air chilled me and I quickly added a layer and gloves at the top. Summit was completely socked in so I only stayed a few minutes to eat something, then headed back down. I brought my microspikes but didn't need them. Only a few patches of ice near the summit, but easily avoidable. The trail was mostly bare with only one real muddy section.

On my way down I made took the 0.2 mile spur trail up to Jennings peak and was glad I did. As soon as I got up there, the clouds begin to clear and the sun came out. Some really nice views in a few different directions and I had that peak to myself as well.

I had planned to take Drakes Brook trail back and make a loop, but since the sun came out and it was warming up, I couldn't resist going back down to Noon Peak for a sunny rest on the ledges and some chocolate.

Seems the sun encouraged some others to get out on the trail. I passed a few more groups on my way down and by the time I got back to the parking lot, there were about 10 cars there.

I had planned on clouds and rain for the day but was just so happy to be back on the trail (and with a light pack and summer boots!!) that I didn't care if I got soaked. The sky clearing and warm sunshine was a fantastic surprise.

Definitely what I needed! I feel like me again.
 
There are some great hikes to do for the NEHH. Have fun.
 
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