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December 3, 2005 |
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Our hiking friend Amy from VFTT had only 2 of the NH peaks left to go on the list of the NEHH peaks. Today we would join her to tackle Vose Spur
We arrived at the entrance to Sawyer River Rd to find it gated for the Winter. This would add a 2 mile road walk in each direction. A little before 9 AM we had 12 hikers and 1 dog (Hi Dugan!) heading up the road towards the Signal Ridge trailhead. This is our first hike with several of the folks - Bunchberry, Big Earl, Nh Mtn Hiker, and Jenny, a friend of Charles. After arriving we decided that we should take a short bushwhack to start the hike in order to avoid the first stream crossing. With Geri leading the way we quickly were on the correct side of the river. The next 1.7 miles was a gradual climb along the river to the split where the Carrigan Notch trail leaves tothe right. After a group shot and some snacks we proceeded to the stream crossing we had hoped was not going to required wading. Luckily a 8 - 10 inch diameter tree was across the stream. With a little helpitwas moved into a better position and all managed to walk across it staying dry. Onward we went to the start of the bushwhack. We found the 4 foot high large rock which marks the area, and 14 steps later the herd path heading up to Vose Spur. At first the ascent is gradual, but not for long. Soon the terrain starts a steep climb towards the summit requiring frequent rest stops. The group splits up a re-groups often. With a few inches of snow on the ground it is easy to follow the path we are taking. The last 1/4 mile of this hike is very steep! It requires the uses of both hands and feet at times to make progress. But soon we are there and enjoying a lunch break. Then a suprise as Pierre from Quebec breaks through to the summit with a ice encrusted beard. He had started at 5:30 AM, first hiking to the summit of Carrigan, before returning to the trail split to follow us. After eating we start our descent, made slippery by the now compacted snow. We reach the bottom of the bushwhack just before dusk. After going @ 1/2 mile we stop to put headlamps on. As darkness falls a star filler sky emerges above us. Were-group several more times, before we all finally return to our cars a little before 7 PM, where we change, say our good byes, and either head home or tp the Mooseland Grill for dinner. |
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Directions to the trailhead: From Glen NH at the intersection of Route 16 and 302, head north on Route 302 for @ 10 miles - there is a large parking lot on the left with signage for Sawyer River Road. The parking lot is plowed during the Winter. |
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and our