Mt. Moosilauke on a balmy winter day. February 23, 2014

On Sunday, February 23, 2014, Seth, Steve and I met up in Benton, NH to climb Mt. Moosilauke.  After our excursion to Cannon and the Kinsmans last fall, we had worked some excitement up for a winter trek. Perusing the AMC activity offerings, we had found a hike up Moosilauke run by the Worcester chapter of the AMC. We decided to go with an experienced group for our first winter hike. With Moosilauke being above treeline, it seemed like the prudent thing to do. The group ended up being a lot of fun and we learned a thing or two. For example, take a compass bearing before the final ascent to the summit, just in case. And most importantly, bring sleds for the way back down.

The day itself began in the upper 20s and ended somewhere in the mid 30 degree range. We headed out on the Glencliff trail at about 8:50 am. The sun burned off the mist by the time we got to the intersection of Glencliff and Carriage. We pushed to the summit, then returned to the intersection for lunch where some telemarkers were making their way up.

The descent might have been the highlight. A few of the Worcester crew had brought little sleds. They flew! We sacrificed our butts and started sliding: we got some glide. The sled owners were generous and gave everyone a chance. Looks like another item will be going on the gear wishlist.
We arrived at the parking lot at 2:30 for a total hike time of 5:40. Not bad for 8 miles of hiking! The sliding helped. Lunch was at the diner in Rumney.

Can we take a break?

Movin' on up the Glencliff trail.

Frosty nature

Up?

Up.

Looking out to the west and the Green Mountains of Vermont from the Glencliff trail.

Vladimir vaunts vodka.

At the intersection of Glencliff trail with Carriage trail. 0.9 to the summit.

The ascent to the windswept summit on a sunny winter day. Windchill was around 0F

Have you been checking me out?

So check me out!

Coming at ya! But look out for Bill behind that tree.

Ok kids. Follow me. WHAT!

Boo yah! Summit of Moosilauke! Mountain number 7 of 48. 1st of winter list.

First clear day we had had on a summit since last August on Lafayette (there had been 3 hikes since)

Seth needs facial hair.

The descent.

The conditions were crusty, but firm.

Stopping at a cairn on a bluebird day.

Wow! Moosilauke has a majestic view on a clear day: Vermont, Lake Winnipisauke, Mt. Washington and the other White Mountains to the northeast.

Awww yeahhhh....time to get down.