Icy ledges on Peaked Mountain (North Conway, NH)

12/30/11 - The wind was quite nippy on the icy ledges of Peaked Mountain and we had a few snow flurries. The upper part of Peaked Mountain Trail passes through interesting stands of red and pitch pine. Looking north, we watched snowmaking and and skiers schussing down Cranmore's trails.

Snowy weather conditions prevented us from seeing either Mt. Washington or Mt. Chocorua. But it was delightful nonetheless. Thanks goodness for micro-spikes on all of those icy ledges!

4.2 miles, 1,200'elevation gain (~4 hours RT)
Summit: Peaked Mountain (1,739')
Route: Peaked Mountain Trail

Easy winter hike on Sawyer River Road

12/29/11 - First John and I enjoyed the river views and sounds, taking many photos of river ice. Then we scrambled (I slid) to ascend the steep bank to the road.

We walked down Sawyer River Road until we reached the intersection with the Signal Ridge Trail, which leads to the summit of Mt. Carrigain. We had a lovely leisurely lunch (including orange milanos and chili mango!) overlooking the river.

~3 miles, virtually no elevation gain (~3 hours RT)
Summit: none
Route: along Sawyer River, then along Sawyer River Road (unplowed)

My first night hike - Cathedral Ledge (NH)

At night, this moderate climb up an unplowed road to a clifftop provides nice views eastward of Cranmore Mountain's lighted ski trails.

On the ledges, even with headlamps, it was a bit tricky finding the road back down, but when we did, it was a quick and easy descent to the base of Cathedral Ledge and the car.

Benefits? My first night hike and a clear view of Jupiter with John!

2.8 miles, 650'elevation gain (~40 minutes up
Summit: Cathedral Ledge (1,150')
Route: Cathedral Ledge Auto Road (unplowed)