Nancy Brook and Norcross Pond

“I went to the woods because I wished to live deliberately, to front only the essential facts of life, and see if I could not learn what it had to teach, and not, when I came to die, discover that I had not lived. I did not wish to live what was not life, living is so dear; nor did I wish to practice resignation, unless it was quite necessary. I wanted to live deep and suck out all the marrow of life, to live so sturdily and Spartan-like as to put to rout all that was not life, to cut a broad swath and shave close, to drive life into a corner, and reduce it to its lowest terms...”

? Henry David Thoreau

Why do these trips? What is there to gain from wandering through the woods?

At 8 a.m. Saturday, November 4th a small group ventured into the forest just off route 302 in Harts Location NH. Partly cloudy skies and seasonably moderate temperatures, the hikers followed the Nancy Pond Trail along the property lines of a few private camps before connecting with the road from a long ago and forgotten era. The moderate grade came to the first stream-crossing with ice that had formed on logs and stones, indicating that winter would soon arrive. Once across with dry feet, the group took on a steeper grade passing the ruins of the logging camp that once dominated the area. At about two and a half miles and another stream crossing the group reached the incredible Nancy Cascade, with contrasting colors of ice and algae.

At this point, the trail follows various switchbacks up the steepest grade and the top of the never-ending cascade. Cresting the knoll, travelers enter a boreal forest that has already begun its long winter nap. These rare areas are among the world's leading purveyors of ecosystem services, including carbon storage and clean water, and they harbor significant wildlife populations. Mud and ice mingle together trapping the footprints of wild residents passing along these trails days before. Reaching approximately four miles is the first of three ponds, Nancy Pond. Melting and shifting glaciers carved out the small pockets for these upper ponds to form in. A gentle breeze makes the slightest ripple upon the water's surface in areas the ice has not seized for the winter doldrums. Crossing several wetlands and bogs on raised wooden trails, the group passes a second, unnamed pond tucked away in a protected marsh area.  A few more quick twists and bumpy knolls the hikers pass into the Pemigewasset Wilderness (USFS) and look down and across the third body of water, Norcross Pond. A slight hint of the majestic view on the western shore peaks through the trees and across the cold water. After a quick scramble, the small group emerges from the tree line onto a granite ledge that is holding back the pond from slipping down into the vast wilderness below. The view from the water level west shows the Pemi Wilderness, Franconia Ridge, and more. Incredible site to behold.

Here on the ledge, the group warms up with more layers, snacks, and thoughts about the day's adventures and fun times of the past. It is noted (several times) by some that the leadership failed to bring warm beverages for everyone to enjoy as other trip leaders had done on cold hiking adventures. That said the group had an amazing adventure into a quiet world not traveled by many. Everyone had a great hike, and the woods were left to the moose and birds to guard through the winter.

So why do we do it? Some seek out these adventures for personal goals or challenges. For some, it is seeking a closer bond with nature which is difficult to do in a more urban environment. The most common reason is seeking a comradery with like-minded travelers. Feeling a part of a greater whole. It is these fellow hikers that we build our friendships and families on. Through these adventures, we seek to become better people, build better communities, and strengthen our relationships with those we travel through life with. Everyone brings smiles, stories, jokes, and encouragement. Some even bring warm beverages to share with everyone. If you were not on this trip, you were definitely missed.

“You cannot stay on the summit forever; you have to come down again. So why bother in the first place? Just this: What is above knows what is below, but what is below does not know what is above. One climbs, one sees. One descends, one sees no longer, but one has seen. There is an art of conducting oneself in the lower regions by the memory of what one saw higher up. When one can no longer see, one can at least still know.”

? Rene Daumal

Nancy Brook and Norcross Pond: elevation (highest point) 3120ft, distance to highest point 4.3 miles, total trip distance 8.6.

This trip is considered MODERATE. Some steep grade and distance are factors.

Group will meet at 8 am and depart up the trail at 8:20 am SHARP.

Hike begins on Route 302 Harts Location. The first half of this hike is a gradual grade up to Nancy Cascades. Passing the remains of an old logging camp. Leaving the cascades is a steep switch back for about .5 a mile. The trail then resumes a gentle grade through a moss-covered virgin forest, traveling along the Nancy Brook. Eventually reaching Nancy Pond the trail will wind around though forest and bog. Reaching the outlet of Norcross Pond and an amazing view of The Pemigewasset Wilderness.

PREPARATION/WHAT TO BRING: White Mountains can have unpredictable and extreme weather changes year-round. It is recommended that hikers have extra dry clothing and wind protection. Always have water (no guarantee for places to refill) and food. If you need suggestions on what to bring, PLEASE ASK!! It is also highly recommended to bring a BLISTER KIT (DIY kits online). If this is the first hike of the season or brand-new footwear, foot first aid most likely will be necessary.

For this trip it is important to bring along flexibility, patience, and a sense of humor.

Group Size: It is not fun leaving folks out of trips. If you cannot attend, PLEASE cancel so others may join. If you are on the waiting list, please contact me days prior to the trip, most likely there is room.

Dogs are the FULL responsibility of the owner and cannot interfere with the hike or the participants. This hike may not be ideal for dogs because of other dogs and hikers. This trail is narrow and steep. It is up to the owner. A leash (close at hand) is highly recommended (also required in WMNF). Decreasing the impact to the environment is always a priority! Please plan to “carry in and carry out” all items. It may also be possible to collect other hikers’ debris along the way.

Weather: If weather is a concern any updates or cancellation information will be posted by the Thursday prior by 6pm. If it is a cancellation it will include a rescheduled date so participants can watch for that opportunity.

Safety is a priority! Any time a hiker is injured or lost a HUGE team of volunteers is dispatched to aid in the search and rescue efforts. No one wants to be injured or put other in harms way. Always be prepared. Know your limits. Any questions feel free to contact me.

Group will meet at 8 am and depart up the trail at 8:20 am Sharp.