| I think the classic route you describe is closer to 11 miles. Taking the Scaur Ridge/Pine Bend route you mention would add about a mile, but is definitely the route to take if trail conditions aren't good (e.g. if its very wet). I assume the slide you are referring to is the North Slide. The South slide - which would probably be your route for descent isn't bad. I've gone up and down it and while it wasn't my favorite part of the route - it wasn't a major hassle either. I'd allow about 7 hours, add a 1/2 hour or so for the longer route.
Another option is to do a loop with Pine Bend and Sabbaday Falls and a minor road walk in between. I did a variation of this once (expanded to a backpacking trip including Whiteface and Passaconway) and really enjoyed it. Doing the loop from the Kanc would probably involve similar time and distance. |