CAMPTON, New Hampshire — Part of a popular trail in the White Mountains National Forest will be closed next month for repairs to damage done during Tropical Storm Irene.
The closure affects part of the Lincoln Woods Trail located off the Kancamagus Highway in Lincoln.
The U.S. Forest Service says it was able to stabilize the trail for short-term use, but a section of it requires extensive restoration.
The work will start in early to mid-August and affect the west side of the suspension bridge to the Osseo Trail junction. It's estimated six to eight weeks are needed to make the repairs.
"High water from Irene eroded the river bank, causing the edge of the trail to wash into the river," said Jon Morrissey, Pemigewasset District ranger. "Approximately 500 feet of the Lincoln Woods Trail, which follows along the East Branch of the Pemigewasset River, will be realigned away from the eroded river bank to a safer and more sustainable location."
The Forest Service said the Eastside Trail, located on the east side of the river, will be open for day hikes and to access the Pemigewasset Wilderness. Hikers should note, though, that there is no bridged crossing of the East Branch of the Pemigewasset River via this route.
The Forest Service said the closure may affect the ability to complete other popular hiking routes such as the Pemi Loop and restrict access from the Lincoln Woods Trail to Franconia Falls, Bondcliff, Thirteen Falls Tentsite, and the summit of Owl's Head.
Signs will be posted at trailheads with details about the closure.
Showing posts with label White Mountains. Show all posts
Showing posts with label White Mountains. Show all posts
Saturday, July 27, 2013
Sunday, January 20, 2013
Avalanche Advisory for Sunday 1-20-2013 » Mount Washington Avalanche Center
Avalanche Advisory for Sunday 1-20-2013 » Mount Washington Avalanche Center
This advisory expires at 12:00 midnight, January 20, 2013
All forecast areas of Tuckerman Ravine have Moderate avalanche danger. Natural avalanches are unlikely and human triggered avalanches are possible. The only exceptions to this rating are the Lower Snowfields and Little Headwall, which have Low avalanche danger. In these two locations, natural and human triggered avalanches are unlikely.
All forecast areas of Huntington Ravine have Moderate avalanche danger. Natural avalanches are unlikely and human triggered avalanches are possible. The only exception to this rating is Escape Hatch, which has Low avalanche danger.
This advisory expires at 12:00 midnight, January 20, 2013
All forecast areas of Tuckerman Ravine have Moderate avalanche danger. Natural avalanches are unlikely and human triggered avalanches are possible. The only exceptions to this rating are the Lower Snowfields and Little Headwall, which have Low avalanche danger. In these two locations, natural and human triggered avalanches are unlikely.
All forecast areas of Huntington Ravine have Moderate avalanche danger. Natural avalanches are unlikely and human triggered avalanches are possible. The only exception to this rating is Escape Hatch, which has Low avalanche danger.
Sunday, October 14, 2012
Nashua Man Rescued In White Mountains
A Nashua man who was trail running in the White Mountains was rescued Saturday after he fell and was injured.
Kevin McDonald, 48, slipped and injured his knee on the East Pond Trail, according to Lt. James Kneeland of New Hampshire Fish and Game. This trail passes scenic East Pond and climbs across the notch between Mt. Osceola and Scar Ridge, reaching an elevation of 3,100ft.
Kneeland said two hikers came across McDonald and one went for help while the other remained with him.
McDonald was helped off the trail by Fish and Game officers and members of the Pemi Valley Search and Rescue.
Kevin McDonald, 48, slipped and injured his knee on the East Pond Trail, according to Lt. James Kneeland of New Hampshire Fish and Game. This trail passes scenic East Pond and climbs across the notch between Mt. Osceola and Scar Ridge, reaching an elevation of 3,100ft.
Kneeland said two hikers came across McDonald and one went for help while the other remained with him.
McDonald was helped off the trail by Fish and Game officers and members of the Pemi Valley Search and Rescue.
Tuesday, October 9, 2012
Conservation Officers Respond to Multiple Weekend Hiker Rescues
New Hampshire Fish and Game Department
Press Release
CONCORD, N.H. -- New Hampshire Fish and Game Department Conservation Officers had a busy weekend rescuing hikers who became lost or injured while out enjoying New Hampshire's fall foliage. The following incidents all occurred on Sunday, October 7, 2012.
GALE RIVER CARRYOUT:
At approximately 10:00 a.m. on Sunday, October 7, 2012, the New Hampshire Fish and Game Department was notified that hiker Andrew Heasitz of Cambridge, Mass., had sustained a lower leg injury while he and his wife were descending the Gale River Trail after a multi-day backpacking trip. Located below the summit of Galehead Mountain on the Gale River Trail, Heasitz was injured and unable to walk.
Fish and Game Conservation Officers and rescuers from the Pemigewasset Valley Search and Rescue Team responded to the Gale River Trailhead parking area in Bethlehem to assist with the rescue effort. Rescuers started hiking up the Gale River Trail at 11:00 a.m. and reached Heasitz at 12:45 p.m., after hiking approximately 3.25 miles from the trailhead. Once rescuers reached Heasitz, they were assisted by two members from the Appalachian Mountain Club. Rescuers provided Heasitz with first-aid treatment and splinted his lower leg. Once the leg injury was stabilized, Heasitz was placed in a litter and carried over 2 miles down the Gale River Trail. An ATV was used to transport him the final 1.25 miles, with rescuers reaching the Gale River Trailhead at about 4:00 p.m. Heasitz was transported to Littleton Regional Hospital in Littleton, N.H., for further medical evaluation.
Heasitz and his wife were prepared for their backcountry adventure and had all the necessary clothing and equipment for a fall backpacking trip. According to Conservation Officer Robert Mancini, "Recent rain in New Hampshire's White Mountain's created adverse trail conditions for hikers. Today we experienced very wet, muddy and slippery surfaces throughout the carry-out. Fortunately, the carry-out went smoothly and we were able to get Mr. Heasitz, along with all rescuers, safely down the mountain without any further incidents."
LOST BOY ON MT. CHOCORUA:
In another incident on Sunday, October 7, a 12-year-old boy hiking with his mother and younger brother on the Piper Trail on Mt. Chocorua in Albany, N.H., became separated from them and was missing for several hours. On the way down, the boy went on ahead and took a wrong turn onto the Champney Falls Trail. After a 911 call for assistance, Fish and Game Conservation Officers responded, along with Carroll County Sheriff's deputies and personnel from the Conway and Tamworth fire departments. Rescue officials talked to all the hikers on the Chocorua trails. At last, a hiker coming down the Champney Falls Trail reported that he had seen the boy, who had befriended another group coming down the mountain. Officers went up the trail to meet them, and the boy was located at 6:34 p.m. A Carroll County Sheriff's Deputy accompanied the boy to be reunited with his family.
LOST HIKERS IN BARTLETT:
As the Chocorua incident was wrapping up, Fish and Game officers were notified of two lost hikers in Bartlett. Bucknell University students Scott Berges, age 22, of Meridan, Conn., and Jeff Madrak, age 21, of Meshoppen, Pa., were camping with friends off Bear Notch Road in Bartlett, N.H. The young men decided to bushwack to the top of Bear Mountain. They made it to the top, but as they were coming down, realized they were running out of daylight. They were not equipped with headlamps or extra clothing or food.
At 6:24 p.m. on Sunday, October 7, 2012, they called 911 for help. Rescue officials were able to get their GPS coordinates from the call and initiated a search. However, the young men did not stay at the location they had called from. Instead, they made one last attempt to get out to the road by heading due south, moving as rapidly as they could through the woods. They were soon overtaken by darkness and had to stop. Night descended, and it was a cold one, with temperatures dropping to 35 degrees, a cold rain commencing for about 3 hours, and a dusting of snow arriving on the White Mountain peaks. Conservation Officers and New England K-9 Search & Rescue volunteers searched through the night for the young men, focused on the area of the 911 coordinates, but the hikers had moved quite a distance from that location.
At daybreak on Monday, October 8, 2012, the young men made their way out to Bear Notch Road and were found at 7:15 a.m. by a New England K-9 Search & Rescue team. They were cold and hungry, but in good health. "Had they stayed put at the location they called from, we may have found them sooner. It was a long cold night for them," said Sgt. Brian Abrams of Fish and Game. "These young men were humbled by the experience and very grateful for the efforts of the search teams who worked through the night to find them."
"Autumn is a beautiful time to get out and enjoy New Hampshire's outdoors, but hikers should be prepared for mountain temperatures to change dramatically from day to night," said Sgt. Abrams. "Be prepared with extra clothing and food. Having a light source is especially important as the days grow shorter. And those beautiful leaves can be wet and slippery when they cover the trails, so watch your footing and consider using hiking poles for extra stability."
Learn more about safe hiking and the ten essential items to have in your pack at http://www.hikeSafe.com.
Press Release
CONCORD, N.H. -- New Hampshire Fish and Game Department Conservation Officers had a busy weekend rescuing hikers who became lost or injured while out enjoying New Hampshire's fall foliage. The following incidents all occurred on Sunday, October 7, 2012.
GALE RIVER CARRYOUT:
At approximately 10:00 a.m. on Sunday, October 7, 2012, the New Hampshire Fish and Game Department was notified that hiker Andrew Heasitz of Cambridge, Mass., had sustained a lower leg injury while he and his wife were descending the Gale River Trail after a multi-day backpacking trip. Located below the summit of Galehead Mountain on the Gale River Trail, Heasitz was injured and unable to walk.
Fish and Game Conservation Officers and rescuers from the Pemigewasset Valley Search and Rescue Team responded to the Gale River Trailhead parking area in Bethlehem to assist with the rescue effort. Rescuers started hiking up the Gale River Trail at 11:00 a.m. and reached Heasitz at 12:45 p.m., after hiking approximately 3.25 miles from the trailhead. Once rescuers reached Heasitz, they were assisted by two members from the Appalachian Mountain Club. Rescuers provided Heasitz with first-aid treatment and splinted his lower leg. Once the leg injury was stabilized, Heasitz was placed in a litter and carried over 2 miles down the Gale River Trail. An ATV was used to transport him the final 1.25 miles, with rescuers reaching the Gale River Trailhead at about 4:00 p.m. Heasitz was transported to Littleton Regional Hospital in Littleton, N.H., for further medical evaluation.
Heasitz and his wife were prepared for their backcountry adventure and had all the necessary clothing and equipment for a fall backpacking trip. According to Conservation Officer Robert Mancini, "Recent rain in New Hampshire's White Mountain's created adverse trail conditions for hikers. Today we experienced very wet, muddy and slippery surfaces throughout the carry-out. Fortunately, the carry-out went smoothly and we were able to get Mr. Heasitz, along with all rescuers, safely down the mountain without any further incidents."
LOST BOY ON MT. CHOCORUA:
In another incident on Sunday, October 7, a 12-year-old boy hiking with his mother and younger brother on the Piper Trail on Mt. Chocorua in Albany, N.H., became separated from them and was missing for several hours. On the way down, the boy went on ahead and took a wrong turn onto the Champney Falls Trail. After a 911 call for assistance, Fish and Game Conservation Officers responded, along with Carroll County Sheriff's deputies and personnel from the Conway and Tamworth fire departments. Rescue officials talked to all the hikers on the Chocorua trails. At last, a hiker coming down the Champney Falls Trail reported that he had seen the boy, who had befriended another group coming down the mountain. Officers went up the trail to meet them, and the boy was located at 6:34 p.m. A Carroll County Sheriff's Deputy accompanied the boy to be reunited with his family.
LOST HIKERS IN BARTLETT:
As the Chocorua incident was wrapping up, Fish and Game officers were notified of two lost hikers in Bartlett. Bucknell University students Scott Berges, age 22, of Meridan, Conn., and Jeff Madrak, age 21, of Meshoppen, Pa., were camping with friends off Bear Notch Road in Bartlett, N.H. The young men decided to bushwack to the top of Bear Mountain. They made it to the top, but as they were coming down, realized they were running out of daylight. They were not equipped with headlamps or extra clothing or food.
At 6:24 p.m. on Sunday, October 7, 2012, they called 911 for help. Rescue officials were able to get their GPS coordinates from the call and initiated a search. However, the young men did not stay at the location they had called from. Instead, they made one last attempt to get out to the road by heading due south, moving as rapidly as they could through the woods. They were soon overtaken by darkness and had to stop. Night descended, and it was a cold one, with temperatures dropping to 35 degrees, a cold rain commencing for about 3 hours, and a dusting of snow arriving on the White Mountain peaks. Conservation Officers and New England K-9 Search & Rescue volunteers searched through the night for the young men, focused on the area of the 911 coordinates, but the hikers had moved quite a distance from that location.
At daybreak on Monday, October 8, 2012, the young men made their way out to Bear Notch Road and were found at 7:15 a.m. by a New England K-9 Search & Rescue team. They were cold and hungry, but in good health. "Had they stayed put at the location they called from, we may have found them sooner. It was a long cold night for them," said Sgt. Brian Abrams of Fish and Game. "These young men were humbled by the experience and very grateful for the efforts of the search teams who worked through the night to find them."
"Autumn is a beautiful time to get out and enjoy New Hampshire's outdoors, but hikers should be prepared for mountain temperatures to change dramatically from day to night," said Sgt. Abrams. "Be prepared with extra clothing and food. Having a light source is especially important as the days grow shorter. And those beautiful leaves can be wet and slippery when they cover the trails, so watch your footing and consider using hiking poles for extra stability."
Learn more about safe hiking and the ten essential items to have in your pack at http://www.hikeSafe.com.
Tuesday, October 2, 2012
Injured hiker rescued from Mount Washington in NH
LANCASTER, N.H. (AP) — Authorities say a 60-year-old hiker who injured his leg has been rescued from Mount Washington.
Yves Brault of Laval, Quebec, was hiking with his wife Tuesday afternoon when he slipped on a ledge and hurt his lower left leg.
Officials from the New Hampshire Fish and Game Department organized a team which hiked to the summit of Mount Washington and reached Brault, who was 1½ miles away. He was taken to a hospital for treatment Tuesday night.
Participating in the rescue were members of the Appalachian Mountain Club, Androscoggin Valley Search and Rescue, New Hampshire Mount Washington Park and conservation officers from the Fish and Game Department.
Yves Brault of Laval, Quebec, was hiking with his wife Tuesday afternoon when he slipped on a ledge and hurt his lower left leg.
Officials from the New Hampshire Fish and Game Department organized a team which hiked to the summit of Mount Washington and reached Brault, who was 1½ miles away. He was taken to a hospital for treatment Tuesday night.
Participating in the rescue were members of the Appalachian Mountain Club, Androscoggin Valley Search and Rescue, New Hampshire Mount Washington Park and conservation officers from the Fish and Game Department.
Wednesday, September 19, 2012
Hiker safe after dramatic rescue in NH mountains
September 19, 2012
FRANCONIA, N.H. (AP) -- New Hampshire Fish and Game officials say rescue crews who endured high winds and torrential rain to rescue an injured hiker in the White Mountains likely saved his life.
Fifty-nine-year-old Edward Bacon of Northville, Mich., was on the third day of a five-day solo hike around Franconia Notch when he fell Tuesday afternoon and seriously injured his hip. Authorities say Bacon crawled to an area where he was able to get brief cell phone reception and called for help.
A team sent by the Appalachian Mountain Club reached Bacon around 6:20 p.m., followed soon after by New Hampshire Fish and Game officers and volunteers. Facing wind gusts of 80 mph and swollen rivers and streams, rescuers carrying the injured man didn't reach the trailhead until after 3 a.m. Wednesday.
FRANCONIA, N.H. (AP) -- New Hampshire Fish and Game officials say rescue crews who endured high winds and torrential rain to rescue an injured hiker in the White Mountains likely saved his life.
Fifty-nine-year-old Edward Bacon of Northville, Mich., was on the third day of a five-day solo hike around Franconia Notch when he fell Tuesday afternoon and seriously injured his hip. Authorities say Bacon crawled to an area where he was able to get brief cell phone reception and called for help.
A team sent by the Appalachian Mountain Club reached Bacon around 6:20 p.m., followed soon after by New Hampshire Fish and Game officers and volunteers. Facing wind gusts of 80 mph and swollen rivers and streams, rescuers carrying the injured man didn't reach the trailhead until after 3 a.m. Wednesday.
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Tuesday, August 28, 2012
3 Unprepared hikers rescued on Mount Washington
PINKHAM NOTCH, N.H. (AP) — New Hampshire Fish and Game officers have come to the aid of three hikers who stopped on a Mount Washington trail when it got too dark.
The hikers from Maine were guided down Tuckerman’s Ravine Trail on Monday night after calling 911.
They were identified as 70-year-old John Reinsboroug and his wife, 67-year-old Elizabeth Reinsboroug, both of Readfield, and their friend, 71-year-old Nancy Russell of Kents Hill.
The Fish and Game Department said the hikers were not carrying any lights.
The hikers from Maine were guided down Tuckerman’s Ravine Trail on Monday night after calling 911.
They were identified as 70-year-old John Reinsboroug and his wife, 67-year-old Elizabeth Reinsboroug, both of Readfield, and their friend, 71-year-old Nancy Russell of Kents Hill.
The Fish and Game Department said the hikers were not carrying any lights.
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Sunday, August 12, 2012
Father, daughter rescued after getting lost on NH's Mount Shaw
MOULTONBOROUGH, N.H. — A father and daughter are safe after getting lost in heavy rain and fog on New Hampshire's Mount Shaw.
Fifty-six-year-old Michael Arcidy of Bedford and his 23-year-old daughter, Chiara, called for help Saturday night after straying off the trail. Fish and Game conservation officers located the hikers using GPS coordinates and used an all-terrain vehicle to reach and rescue them.
Officials say the father and daughter did have appropriate clothing and most of the recommended hiking gear, but they did not have a map that could have helped them get back on the trail.
View Larger Map
Fifty-six-year-old Michael Arcidy of Bedford and his 23-year-old daughter, Chiara, called for help Saturday night after straying off the trail. Fish and Game conservation officers located the hikers using GPS coordinates and used an all-terrain vehicle to reach and rescue them.
Officials say the father and daughter did have appropriate clothing and most of the recommended hiking gear, but they did not have a map that could have helped them get back on the trail.
View Larger Map
Monday, August 6, 2012
Injured Hiker assisted off Old Bridle Path in NH
FRANCONIA NOTCH, N.H. -- A Westford man who fell and injured his leg while hiking in Franconia Notch Saturday afternoon was helped from the trail by a rescue team, but officials say he was well-prepared for his hike.
The New Hampshire Fish and Game Department was notified about 3:40 p.m. that Jay Enis, of Westford, fell and injured his leg while hiking on the Old Bridle Path Trail in Franconia Notch. Old Bridle Path is typically used to access the Greenleaf on the way up to Mount Lafayette. The trails on and around this ridge have been a frequent rescue area this year due to various reasons
Members of the Appalachian Mountain Club were helping Enis descend the trail under his own power, but conservation officers from New Hampshire Fish and Game and the Pemigewasset Valley Search and Rescue Team started up the trail to assist.
Members of the rescue team found Enis about 4:15 p.m., about 2 1/2 miles from the trailhead. They provided first-aid and put a splint on Enis' leg. Everyone made it back to the trailhead by 8:05 p.m.
Despite the injury, Enis was able to slowly complete the hike with some assistance.
"Mr. Enis and the other member of his hiking party were prepared and had all the necessary clothing and equipment for a summer day hike," the New Hampshire Fish and Game Department said in a press release.
The agency encourages all hikers to visit www. hikesafe.com for a list of recommended hiking equipment. The trails on and around this ridge have been a frequent rescue area this year due to various reasons, but the common theme in most of the rescues in the area have been due to the lack of preparedness.
Hikers who get in trouble while hiking unprepared can be forced to pay for their rescue.
The New Hampshire Fish and Game Department was notified about 3:40 p.m. that Jay Enis, of Westford, fell and injured his leg while hiking on the Old Bridle Path Trail in Franconia Notch. Old Bridle Path is typically used to access the Greenleaf on the way up to Mount Lafayette. The trails on and around this ridge have been a frequent rescue area this year due to various reasons
Members of the Appalachian Mountain Club were helping Enis descend the trail under his own power, but conservation officers from New Hampshire Fish and Game and the Pemigewasset Valley Search and Rescue Team started up the trail to assist.
Members of the rescue team found Enis about 4:15 p.m., about 2 1/2 miles from the trailhead. They provided first-aid and put a splint on Enis' leg. Everyone made it back to the trailhead by 8:05 p.m.
Despite the injury, Enis was able to slowly complete the hike with some assistance.
"Mr. Enis and the other member of his hiking party were prepared and had all the necessary clothing and equipment for a summer day hike," the New Hampshire Fish and Game Department said in a press release.
The agency encourages all hikers to visit www. hikesafe.com for a list of recommended hiking equipment. The trails on and around this ridge have been a frequent rescue area this year due to various reasons, but the common theme in most of the rescues in the area have been due to the lack of preparedness.
Hikers who get in trouble while hiking unprepared can be forced to pay for their rescue.
 |
| Old Bridle Path (Red) |
Stranded hikers at blame for lack of preparation and late departure
CONCORD, N.H. — New Hampshire Fish and Game officials are blaming a late departure and lack of preparedness for the late night rescue of four hikers from Mount Major in Alton.
The hikers, all from Somersworth, included two adults and two children. Officials say they did not begin their hike up the 1,786-foot mountain until 4 p.m. Sunday and were wearing light clothing and carrying one small light. Darkness fell during their descent.
The hiking party called 911 at 9:17 p.m. Fish and Game officials and members of the Alton Fire Department rushed to reach the hikers as storms were moving into the area. The hikers were escorted down the mountain and reached the trailhead at 11:25 p.m. Sunday.
Officials say hikers must be prepared with emergency clothing and gear.
Prepare for your hike: http://hikesafe.com/
The hikers, all from Somersworth, included two adults and two children. Officials say they did not begin their hike up the 1,786-foot mountain until 4 p.m. Sunday and were wearing light clothing and carrying one small light. Darkness fell during their descent.
The hiking party called 911 at 9:17 p.m. Fish and Game officials and members of the Alton Fire Department rushed to reach the hikers as storms were moving into the area. The hikers were escorted down the mountain and reached the trailhead at 11:25 p.m. Sunday.
Officials say hikers must be prepared with emergency clothing and gear.
Prepare for your hike: http://hikesafe.com/
Sunday, July 22, 2012
Elderly hiker rescued on Mt. Washington
Officials, "Woman given bad hiking advice"
BRETTON WOODS, N.H. - An elderly woman from New Jersey had to be rescued from Mount Washington after she was given bad hiking advice, said authorities.
Dee Schardt, 69, of Sea Girt, N.J., had gone up the mountain on the Cog Railroad with a friend.
When they were at the top, someone had told them taking Jewel Trail would be an easy way down the mountain, said officials.
The pair started their descent just before noon Saturday with no food, water or lights.
At about 8 p.m. authorities fielded several calls from people who were concerned about Schardt’s safety.
Conservation officers found her some ways up the mountain. Hikers had given her food and something to drink.
The officers assisted her back down to the Cog Railroad parking lot, giving her several piggy back rides on the way.
They arrived there at about 11 p.m. Schardt was tired, but didn’t require additional medical attention, said authorities.
BRETTON WOODS, N.H. - An elderly woman from New Jersey had to be rescued from Mount Washington after she was given bad hiking advice, said authorities.
Dee Schardt, 69, of Sea Girt, N.J., had gone up the mountain on the Cog Railroad with a friend.
When they were at the top, someone had told them taking Jewel Trail would be an easy way down the mountain, said officials.
The pair started their descent just before noon Saturday with no food, water or lights.
At about 8 p.m. authorities fielded several calls from people who were concerned about Schardt’s safety.
Conservation officers found her some ways up the mountain. Hikers had given her food and something to drink.
The officers assisted her back down to the Cog Railroad parking lot, giving her several piggy back rides on the way.
They arrived there at about 11 p.m. Schardt was tired, but didn’t require additional medical attention, said authorities.
Friday, July 20, 2012
Sunday, July 8, 2012
Rescue team aids dehydrated hiker on Little Haystack
12:54 PM EDT Jul 08, 2012
LINCOLN, N.H. - New Hampshire Fish and Game Department aided a dehydrated hiker in Franconia on Saturday.
Officials said the hiker fell ill on Franconia Ridge between Little Haystack and Mount Lincoln about 4 p.m. Saturday.
A rescue team met with the hiker a short time later. After rest and rehydration she was able to hike back out of the area on her own.
New Hampshire Fish and Game officials recommend that hikers bring at least 2 liters of water to hydrate with.
Source: http://ow.ly/c62kl
LINCOLN, N.H. - New Hampshire Fish and Game Department aided a dehydrated hiker in Franconia on Saturday.
Officials said the hiker fell ill on Franconia Ridge between Little Haystack and Mount Lincoln about 4 p.m. Saturday.
A rescue team met with the hiker a short time later. After rest and rehydration she was able to hike back out of the area on her own.
New Hampshire Fish and Game officials recommend that hikers bring at least 2 liters of water to hydrate with.
Source: http://ow.ly/c62kl
Sunday, June 10, 2012
Sights and Scenes of Diana's Bath Conway NH
Video's and Photo's shot June 9, 2012
The water flow was at peak levels as the day before was the end of an almost week long Nor'Easter for New England where many communities throughout New Hampshire and Maine are cleaning up from disastrous washouts and rain damage.
This particular location is handicap accessible, the trail up to the Baths has a fine clay and gravel surface hard enough and level enough to navigate a wheelchair. Not all areas are accessible by wheel chair but there is a nice outlook area that can be reached and still enjoy the view of the main attraction to the area.
Photo's were shot with an Android Casio G'z One Commando Phone
Video's were shot with a Blackberry PlayBook
Friday, March 23, 2012
68-year-old woman set to hike Appalachian Trail
CHATTANOOGA (WRCB) -- What do you do when you're retired, living the dream, and about to turn 69? If you're Elaine Gregory-Duty, you set out to hike the entire Appalachian Trail!
Age, gender, none of it matters to Elaine. She made this a goal more than three decades ago, and nothing is going to stop her.
"There is life to be lived and I'm not one to sit down," Elaine Gregory-Duty says. "My grandmother died in her 80s and she walked two miles a day every day."
At 68, Elaine will up her grandmothers ante, as she plans to hike 7-16 miles a day for five months on the Appalachian Trail. That's 2,182 miles from Springer Mountain, Georgia to Northern Maine, crossing 14 states.
One could only ask, why?
"Because it's there and I love the outdoors," Elaine says. "First time I stepped foot on it in 1977 in October, they said it went from Georgia to Maine, that was my goal."
Since 1977, Elaine has been training and has hiked the Appalachian Trail from Georgia to the Pennsylvania border in intervals.
She's hiked parts of Maine and New Hampshire. On March 27, she'll set out to tame the entire beast in one shot.
Family members are giving their full support.
"I'm not worried about her, I'm proud and anxious," says Linda A. Gregory-Duty, Elaine's life-partner. "I want the five months to already be here, so she's back home. But, this is her dream and I'm glad her dream is coming to fruition."
One could also only ask, will there be a time when you say what on earth did I get myself into?
After laughing a bit Elaine says, "There are days that come up, and I've had a few days like that myself. You just have to look and say, 'you had a goal in mind, finish it'. It's on the bucket list let's go."
Elaine will turn 69 three days after she starts. She hopes this motivates anyone her age to get out and pursue something because as she says, "it's never too late."
Her family will meet up with her at checkpoints, and they'll send us pictures along the way.
Story shared from: http://www.wrcbtv.com
Wednesday, January 4, 2012
Going Hiking? Be Prepared!
Always being mindful of responsible, safe hiking practices is one of the best New Year's
resolutions that we can think of. Check out this new video from the New Hampshire
Outdoor Council, highlighting hikeSafe.
"hikeSafe: It's your responsibility" highlights the experiences of three avid hikers and the
lessons they have learned in the mountains of New Hampshire. Though the mountains are
beautiful -- and hiking can be incredibly fun -- the mountains must also be respected, and
hiking must be approached with full understanding of its demands. These hikers share
their knowledge, sometimes earned through discomfort and even danger. Whether lost
alone on a wilderness trail, buffeted by icy ridge-top gales, or forced to spend an
unplanned night out by a raging river, the hikers speak earnestly and candidly so that
others may benefit. The hikers stress the hikeSafe responsibility code, which encourages
outdoor enthusiasts to be fully prepared for the challenges of the outdoors.
their knowledge, sometimes earned through discomfort and even danger. Whether lost
alone on a wilderness trail, buffeted by icy ridge-top gales, or forced to spend an
unplanned night out by a raging river, the hikers speak earnestly and candidly so that
others may benefit. The hikers stress the hikeSafe responsibility code, which encourages
outdoor enthusiasts to be fully prepared for the challenges of the outdoors.
Preparing for your hike:
There are twelve "must have" items when you go for
hike, even if it is in familiar territory and only for a short time in perfect
weather. There are another ten optional items that you should carry when
you are hiking. No equipment list is perfect. Keep in mind that if
you are going for a day hike in the Painted Desert in July, your needs will be
much different then going on a day hike in the Garden of The Gods State Park,
In Colorado, or Acadia National Park in Maine.
The twelve "must have" items should be carried at all
times. It may seem ridiculous to carry rain gear in a desert, but if that
sudden shower were to come up, you will be glad to have it. You may have
hiked an area one-hundred times and know it like the back of your hand -- but
find out about an unexpected trail closure, and you will be wishing you had a map.
Naturally you will also need a pack to carry your equipment
in. A well thought out packing and equipping job can allow the hiker to hold the twelve
essentials in a small fanny pack. If you are hiking in
special conditions like cold weather (which will require bulkier gear) then a
day pack may be required. High quality day packs can be had for $50 to
$75. Generally if you spend less than that on a day pack, you are risking
getting a lower quality product, or worse one that beats you to death when
hiking.
Number one, a plan. You should never hike without a plan. You should
plan your route, check the local weather, get trail conditions, and notify a
friend, relative, neighbor, or ranger of your plans. If there are
trailhead registers on the trail you should use them. Try to stick to
your plan.
Number two, a map. Even if you have hiked a trail a hundred times, you
should carry a map. Unexpected trail closures, an injury requiring a
shorter route, bad weather, or animal encounter can all result in a sudden
change of plans. Having a map assists in this greatly. You don't
have to carry topographical maps for a regular day hike. Practically
every state and national park provides hiking maps of trails and features for
free or a nominal fee. Some of the best maps I have ever used are provided at most trail-heads and parking lots, and they are
some of the most low tech maps you will ever use.
Number three, a compass. Carrying a compass with you is not enough, you need to
know how to use it properly. Adjustments for declination, field
interference, the metal on your equipment, and poor handling can make a compass
a dangerous tool to use. You should find a good orienteering class and
take it to learn about using a compass in the field. If you do not have
experience with a compass, you should stay away from lensatic models (ones with
a flip up view finder) until you have more experience, and further they don't
work very well when overlaid on a map.
Number four, a pocket knife. I am partial to the Swiss Army style
knives, but almost any kind of pocket knife will do. You should keep your
blade length around three inches and the knife should have a locking
blade. A pocket knife can have a million uses in the field as the need
arises. You should carry your pocket knife on your person, and not in
your pack.
Number five, a whistle. A good survival whistle is essential to carry when
hiking. The sound a whistle makes travels much further then your voice
ever could in an emergency situation. When walking through bear country
you can blow on it to alert the bears that you are passing through. You
can also use it to communicate with others in your group, say some one is too
far ahead, or falling behind. A whistle can be the best $2.00 to $7.00
piece of hiking safety equipment you will spend. You should always carry
your whistle around your neck, and not in your pack.
Number six, a personal first aid kit. A good first aid kit does not have to
be large, elaborate, or expensive. The basic kit should include
antiseptic wipes, sting relief, burn cream, band-aids of various types and
sizes, cotton balls, sterile pads, gauze, tape, pain reliever (a.k.a. aspirin
or Tylenol), antacid (tablets), Benadryl (tablets), mole skin (for blisters),
one pair of latex gloves, and tweezers.
If you are hiking in an area with a large poisonous snake population and will be more than one hour away from help you should also carry a basic snake bite kit but only after receiving proper instruction on it's use. A snake bite kit in the wrong hands can cause more damage then the actual bite.
Oral Benadryl should be carried for insect bites or stings. If yourself or a person in your party has never had an insect sting before (a.k.a. bee, wasp, hornet) the Benadryl can be administered to slow down an allergic reaction, but medical attention should be sought out at the first sign of a severe reaction.
If you are hiking in an area with a large poisonous snake population and will be more than one hour away from help you should also carry a basic snake bite kit but only after receiving proper instruction on it's use. A snake bite kit in the wrong hands can cause more damage then the actual bite.
Oral Benadryl should be carried for insect bites or stings. If yourself or a person in your party has never had an insect sting before (a.k.a. bee, wasp, hornet) the Benadryl can be administered to slow down an allergic reaction, but medical attention should be sought out at the first sign of a severe reaction.
Number seven, a flashlight with spare batteries. The large lantern style flashlight has been replaced by micro flashlights with alloy skins, xenon bulbs, and a battery life of eight hours on two AA batteries. You should carry a flashlight with you regardless of the time of day your are hiking or your plans. A severe storm can require you to stop while you wait for it to pass. What would you do if night fell and you did not have any light. It is also essential to carry spare batteries that are known to be fresh. A good, reliable, compact, waterproof flashlight can be purchased for under $20.
Number eight, waterproof matches. Carrying waterproof matches is done to expect the unexpected. If you become lost, delayed, or injured, a day hike can turn into an overnight stay in the wilderness. Accidentally fall into an icy river, or get pelted by an unexpected rain storm, your ability to make a fire to warm up may mean the difference between life and death. Genuine waterproof matches should be carried. If you transfer your matches to a match holder, be sure that you have a surface to strike the match on if a special surface is required. A cigarette lighter is not a good substitute for matches, but can be carried as an alternative source of flame. If you want to feel truly prepared, you can carry a flint and steel kit with some cotton and cork for fire starting as a third backup.
Number nine, emergency rain gear. Your equipment does not have to be elaborate. A simple poncho left in it's store packaging is more than adequate for most regions of North America for three season hiking. If you are hiking at high altitude, in an area that is prone to rain a lot (the Northwestern United States, New England coast, Northwestern Colorado, Southeastern United States in the spring and summer) or where the temperature will be below 60 degrees, more adequate rain gear should be carried. If you are caught in a sudden shower you should cover up in your poncho, and wait for it to pass. Make sure you are not standing in a dry riverbed or wash while waiting. If you are caught in a thunderstorm you should move away from high ground and tall objects (like trees) immediately. Find a low spot, ravine, or thin place in the woods, cover up with your poncho, stay low and wait for it to pass.
Number ten, insect repellent and/or sunscreen. The joy of hiking, fresh air, scenic vistas, ticks, chiggers, mosquitoes, and sunburn. Insect repellant and sunscreen are vital to carry when hiking.
When using insect repellant it is best to treat your clothing with a spray before entering the field, and to use a cream based repellant on any exposed skin upon entering the field. Cream based repellants pack better and take up less room. A variety that contains anywhere from 20% to 35% DEET should be effective in most cases. DEET masks carbon-dioxide which most biting insects use to detect their next victim. DEET in high concentrations (a.k.a. 100%) and used over extended periods of time in large doses has been proven to cause medical side effects. You should use insect repellant sparingly and if you are pregnant you should consult with your physician.
If you also use sunscreen, you should use a low scent/no scent variety. The perfumes that are put into sunscreen will only attract insects, and worse may attract bears. No Ad sunscreen which can be found at Wal-Mart is an excellent product for it's ability to protect, be waterproof, and have virtually no odor. It also happens to be very inexpensive.
There are a number of combination products appearing on the market today that act both as sunscreen and as insect repellant. Off brand is the most popular and these products work moderately well. At the time of preparing this article, there was no independent data on the effectiveness of these combination products when compared to their stand alone counterparts. Further, there is no real data on using separate sunscreen and insect repellant at the same time. You should draw your own conclusions and use what works best for you.
When using insect repellant it is best to treat your clothing with a spray before entering the field, and to use a cream based repellant on any exposed skin upon entering the field. Cream based repellants pack better and take up less room. A variety that contains anywhere from 20% to 35% DEET should be effective in most cases. DEET masks carbon-dioxide which most biting insects use to detect their next victim. DEET in high concentrations (a.k.a. 100%) and used over extended periods of time in large doses has been proven to cause medical side effects. You should use insect repellant sparingly and if you are pregnant you should consult with your physician.
If you also use sunscreen, you should use a low scent/no scent variety. The perfumes that are put into sunscreen will only attract insects, and worse may attract bears. No Ad sunscreen which can be found at Wal-Mart is an excellent product for it's ability to protect, be waterproof, and have virtually no odor. It also happens to be very inexpensive.
There are a number of combination products appearing on the market today that act both as sunscreen and as insect repellant. Off brand is the most popular and these products work moderately well. At the time of preparing this article, there was no independent data on the effectiveness of these combination products when compared to their stand alone counterparts. Further, there is no real data on using separate sunscreen and insect repellant at the same time. You should draw your own conclusions and use what works best for you.
Number eleven, water. Water is essential when you are hiking. For every two hours you plan to spend hiking you should carry at least one quart of water. For a full day you should carry a gallon. There are a number of solutions for carrying water. Simple one quart water bottles can be found almost anywhere on the internet or in a store for just a couple of dollars. Hydration systems, backpacks with a water bladder and a bite valve can also be used. Camelbak makes a very popular hydration system that holds one-hundred ounces of water (about 3 quarts, 1 cup) that runs anywhere from $60 to $80. These hydration systems offer many benefits but may complicate your ability to carry a pack. You also need to keep in mind that your water supply will be the heaviest thing you carry on a day hike. A gallon of water weighs close to nine pounds!
Number twelve, food. Food is also essential when you are hiking. Not only does eating food on the trail help keep your system balanced, it provides a cushion if there is an emergency. Complex carbohydrates and proteins make the best food to carry. Dried fruits, jerky, nuts, peanut butter, whole grain mini bagels, prepared energy bars, candy bars with a high protein content (nuts, peanut butter) and crackers make excellent field rations for a day hike. A self opening single serving can of tuna, a mayo packet, and some creative mixing in a plastic bag can make for a compact and good meal. Raisins and peanut butter on a bagel is also an excellent energy fix. You should try to carry at least 2,000 calories worth of food when hiking. Also, you should double pack your rations in plastic bags and remember to carry out all trash. If you drop food on the ground by accident you should pick it up and pack it out.
Monday, January 2, 2012
Ride to Snow Where?
January 02. 2012
After waking up this morning to 42 degree temperatures and blowing snow flurries, I decided my quest for the day was to find lasting snow. Having lived in New England all of my life we associate winter with snow. It is now the second day of the New Year 2012 and we have had no lasting show to speak of, no ice to skate on and no shoveling to complain about so far this winter.
At first we saw a few signs of snow on the edge of side roads with small piles on the edge of the road where there had been some signs of plowing. Then there was the occasional driveway covered in a glaze of ice that had yet to be sanded. Then around the bend at mile marker 90 approaching Lincoln and the exit for the Kancamagus highway, tada we saw our first hint of winters white gold.
There is enough snow up here and the temperatures are cold enough for the Ski areas to produce snow as well. As we drove through town on our way to the Kancamagus we passed Loon Mountain and they haven't missed a beat. The parking lots were full of cars and the slopes were full of skiers enjoying one of the "spring" skiing days at an unusually warm 38 degrees.
Being a Federal holiday the National Forest was very quiet today. The highway was still fresh with what looks to have been freezing rain from last night. There were the occasional ice patches but a nice ride just the same. To top it off and to answer my wishes there was a constant flow of snow flakes to bring a smile to my face. This stop was of the Hancock Lookout lot and was cool to see the snow line across the hills in the distance. After crossing the Kancamagus we headed into North Conway to check on the covered bridges to see how they weathered the tropical storm that devastated the area earlier this year. I must say the resilient New England town did a great job bouncing back. 
I have a few shots of Mount Chocorua (generally pronounced, "shuh-cor'-wuh") is a summit in the White Mountains of New Hampshire. At an elevation of 3,490 feet (1,064 m) it is the easternmost peak of the Sandwich Range.
The Sandwich Range extends east-west about 30 miles from Conway, New Hampshire on the Saco River to Campton on thePemigewasset. Although the range is not outstanding for its elevation, it is very rugged and has excellent views of the surrounding lakes, mountains, and forests. Mount Chocorua's bare summit can be seen from almost every direction and can be identified from many points throughout central New Hampshire and western Maine.
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