South Moat Snowshoe

 It was a great day to climb South Moat with the guys. Good call to change from Saturday to Sunday with the weather. Arrived at the trailhead to find the trail had not been traveled after the snow, so snowshoes were a must. The temp was relatively warm, in the upper 30s, and the sun made an appearance on occaision. Once we started up the trail, we made good time, although there were several pauses to adjust layers. It got to be very warm while climbing so that many of the guys were just in shirt sleeves. The snow packed down well under the snowshoes and we made good time. I must say there were several times we hoped the summit was just at the next rise, as we were growing tired and hungry! We finally cleared the summit and joined two others and a dog for the views and our lunch. There was hardly any wind so we were able to linger for some time and enjoy the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. What a reward for the endeavor! Worth every drop of sweat! After packing up, our trip down took half as long as the trip up! All in all it was a great day. Looking forward to climbing it again!

A top-of-the-world feeling and unobstructed panaroma of peaks in every direction except north, where Middle and North Moat loom.

A little under three hours from Boston, this bare cone [2770'] is almost as good a viewpoint as its higher ridgemate, North Moat. 

Well-seen are the Presidentials, Carters, Evans Notch mountains, eastern Lakes Region, Sandwich Range, Hancock & Carrigain, and much more. It's south facing which means lots of sun!  

Terrain: The first 1.5 miles is an easy, graded terrain. Then the trail becomes more steep and open with spectacular views east and west as we get within striking distance from the summit. You can reserve and rent snowshoes from your local outdoor outfitter such as REI, EMS, or from Ski Fanatics off Exit 28 on I-93.

Trail: This is an up and back hike using the relocated Moat Mountain trail until we reach the route of the original trail after 1.5 miles. The trail then becomes steep with rough footing where we pass an outlook to Mt. Chocorua. As we approach the summit  we'll hike into beautiful red pines. [There will not be an official lunch stop. We'll be saving our appetite for the Moat Mountain Brewery].  

Time/Distance: Hike time is approximately 4 hours. Round trip distance is 5.4 miles with 2,200 ft. elevation gain. We will take our time to enjoy the views, take pictures and have fun!

Gear List: Be sure to bring appropriate winter gear such as winter insulated boots, traction (micropikes, crampons, etc.), snowshoes (we have some to borrow so let us know), warm clothing (no cotton and blue jeans), water, lunch and snacks, etc. 

After The Hike: Everyone is welcome back to join us in North Conway at the Moat Mountain Brewery. What better place to celebrate our adventure! 

Lodging Option: Bunk beds are available at my house near Waterville Valley, NH for Saturday night for $20 per night. Coffee/bagels each morning and linen/blankets/towels are provided. We have limited space in the fridge to store your beverages/food so it's best to bring a small cooler. Space is limited so email me ASAP to reserve a bunk!

Carpooling: Contact other guys living near you for carpooling. If you are driving up I-93, meet Jon and I off the Exit 28 ramp at the Post Office parking lot for 11:30 A.M.