NH Tramper
Member
Date of Hike: December 28, 2013
Trails: Falling Waters, Franconia Ridge, Greenleaf, and Old Bridle Path Trails
Trail Conditions: Conditions were good; ~3-6" of snow with limited ice underneath -- we wore light traction for half the ascent. We traveled quickly and easily. The crossings were all bridged and pretty solid. I do recall one easy-over blowdown on Falling Waters Trail (all else clear). The ridge itself was blown thin with plenty on rock to walk on and we barebooted it. The traction had to go back on before we reached the hut on our descent, though; ice on the trail covered with a little bit of snow made it slick.
Special Equipment Used: We brought trekking poles and they were helpful in probing the ice on crossings and for staying upright in the wind. Light traction was useful for less than half the hike. Crampons weren't needed, though we did carry them. Snowshoes weren't really needed. Some used them but they didn't offer anything besides traction -- flotation wasn't needed. Others used them to walk on rocks: clank, clank, clank. Most people who did bring them carried them. Gaiters, goggles, and face protection were helpful.
Comments: Hiked this one as lead for my work. The client was awesome and we had a great day. Love it!
Mike "Tramper" Cherim
North Conway NH
Trails: Falling Waters, Franconia Ridge, Greenleaf, and Old Bridle Path Trails
Trail Conditions: Conditions were good; ~3-6" of snow with limited ice underneath -- we wore light traction for half the ascent. We traveled quickly and easily. The crossings were all bridged and pretty solid. I do recall one easy-over blowdown on Falling Waters Trail (all else clear). The ridge itself was blown thin with plenty on rock to walk on and we barebooted it. The traction had to go back on before we reached the hut on our descent, though; ice on the trail covered with a little bit of snow made it slick.
Special Equipment Used: We brought trekking poles and they were helpful in probing the ice on crossings and for staying upright in the wind. Light traction was useful for less than half the hike. Crampons weren't needed, though we did carry them. Snowshoes weren't really needed. Some used them but they didn't offer anything besides traction -- flotation wasn't needed. Others used them to walk on rocks: clank, clank, clank. Most people who did bring them carried them. Gaiters, goggles, and face protection were helpful.
Comments: Hiked this one as lead for my work. The client was awesome and we had a great day. Love it!
Mike "Tramper" Cherim
North Conway NH
