West Bigelow and Avery Peak

Fire Warden's & Appalahian trail

January 2, 2011


Today is a special day! Cathy is finishing her goal of climbing the 67 4000+ foot peaks in New England!! 13 of us arrive at the trailhead under misty skies with promises of sunshine later in the day. Normally one can drive all the way down the road to Stratton Brook, but in Winter one must walk 2 miles to get to the same spot. Donning snowshoes we are off with smiles and laughter.

We all traverse the brook crossing staying dry and head out on the flat to gentle grade on a trail of deep snow that was broken out a few days earlier. As we made our way up the trail the sun came out raising the tempature into the 40's and softening the snow even more. We made slow progress fueled by homemade brownies that Cathy had passed out that morning.

Reaching the col between the two peaks, we stop for a snack before heading to the West peak first. As we reach the summit, the clouds blow by providing us with glimpses of our next stop - Avery Peak - Cathy's 67th peak. We are off, back to the col and onward to the summit.

Stopping short of the summit, a arch of hiking poles form for Cathy to walk through to her 67th peak and completion of this goal. Brownies, shots, photos, fun, and congrats from all! Just before we start the descent Cathy is awarded a NE67 patch. Off we go starting the trek back to the col and the cars as we glislade, run, and just have fun for the rest of the day.

Congrats Cathy!

Directions to Trailhead
Follow Rte 27 for @ 3.2 miles northwest of the Sugarloaf ski area to Stratton Brook Rd on your right. Follow the road as far as you dare. There are several parking areas along the road and one at the end where it stops at Stratton Brook.

Length of Hike:
9:00 hours
16:00 miles





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