North & South Kinsman

When I titled the recent trip report for the climb to Mt. Moosilauke – A Storm is Brewing – little did I know the White Mountains would be overcome with a gushing of melted snow and heavy rains.   A little bird clued me in to the raging river warnings before Saturday’s trek which prompted me to move the hike to Sunday (nicer weather) and altering the planned route.  That turned out to be a wise decision.  Ice bridges – no more, beautiful delineated paths – some, water bars – raging torrents, small streams – bursting at the seams.   I loved that winter came early but was saddened at the early thaw – but these are now the norms of the season.  It happened in January of 2018 too.

We met at the Basin and quickly moved the parking spot to Lafayette Place.  We suited up, sported our micro spikes and headed up the Fishin’ Jimmy trail.  The first part of the trail was beautifully intact minus a few exposed water bars.  I was surprised – I expected more earth.  We made it to the hut in no time at all where we briefly paused so I could tinker with my gaiters.  Once balance had been restored (anything out of place for this linear trip leader is just wrong!) we hit the trail.  This section was a mess.  While it had frozen over, post holes from previous hikers were a norm as were running water bars and a particularly ugly water crossing.  Sadly – boots got wet.  Ice bridges – not to be trusted.  Thankfully it wasn’t too terrible and didn’t deter the hike.

We soon reached the trail junction for Fishin’ Jimmy and Kinsman Pond.  We paused and suited up for the winds to follow.  The temperatures quickly dropped as well.  To our delight the trail was restored to its beautiful delineated snow shoe path.  No more post holes, no ankle turning uneven snow pack – just solid, flat snow.  I would call it a crushed granular pack that afforded great traction with microspikes.

We reached North Kinsman, meandered over to South Kinsman where we really indulged the summit.  It was windy and cold but highly enjoyable.  We skittled back to North Kinsman where we delighted in lunch on the protected ledge in full sun.  Shortly thereafter we made our descent reminding ourselves of some tricky icy spots and the awful water crossing.  We paused at the hut for tea and hot cocoa and arrived back at the parking lot by 3:30pm.  We had an early start this day hence the early finish.  It worked out great.  I had traveled south from my parent’s house in Maine and I made it back for dinner – yay.

A massive shout out to David and Long for a splendid day on the trails.  Brilliant sun, perfect temperatures, a few wet feet, but good spirits all around.  Cheers gents – to more happy hiking!!

I know I’m going to be in the minority when I say there simply aren’t enough beautiful WINTER days to hike!  Let’s not let a weekend get between us and SNOW!  It’s been a wet autumn but good weather will prevail – I can feel it.

I enjoy the paths that are less traveled than others.  North and South Kinsman via Fishin’ Jimmy is always busy so on this trek we will try something a bit different.  We will hike up to North Kinsman via the Kinsman Pond Trail.  I hiked this last in January of 2018 during the massive heat wave after the New Year deep freeze.  It was an awesome trek with the big reveal being the pond and shelter. 

We’ll park at the Basin and head south .8 miles to connect with the Cascade Brook Trail.   The trail crosses under the highway and 1.3 meandering miles later we reach the junction for Kinsman Pond Trail.  From here we make the hearty 3 mile ascent to the pond and shelter.  A mere 1/10 of mile beyond we connect with Fishin’ Jimmy and we make the final 4/10 of a mile ascent to North Kinsman.  A short .9 miles south allows us to tag South Kinsman, grab some views, maybe each lunch (or not) and high five on a climb well done.  We then flip the route and make our way back from where we came only this time we stay on Fishin’ Jimmy and make our descent to Lonesome Lake Hut.  The hut is always brimming with activity so it should be fun.  From there we reconnect with the upper portion of the Cascade Brook Trail and make our way back to the cars at the basin.  Just like that – a loop hike – sweet!

In total, this day will encompass 12 stunningly snow covered miles of pure winter white joy.

What to bring:  Typical winter gear, snow shoes, micro spikes, hand-warmers, climbing fleece, face mask, gloves, etc.  Layer your clothing – you’ll need less on the way up and more when we traverse the modest ridge.  Puff coat and windbreaker a most definite need for the summit.  Everything you bring has to fit in your day pack.  Lunch, snacks, two liters of water and a thermos of hot cider is always good.  No Cotton!!