Monadnock

[JPop]

Was planning to head up to Monadnock this weekend. Thinking I don't have to worry about ice yet, but has anyone been there recently and know what the conditions are like?

 

[thetrailboss]

Conditions can change rapidly. I'd be prepared for ice IMHO. Have not been to Monadnock in some time, but it is rather exposed and the weather is forecast to be changing.

 

[MichaelJ]

Agreed. At one point the temps were going to be 40s/50s for this weekend; however, now I'm seeing overnight forecasts in the 20's with snow showers at night. That said, if the sun comes out, it will dry out / sublimate pretty quickly up on the same exposed sections.

Here's one idea. Go up Cascade Link to the Pumpelly Trail along the "spine" that is Dublin Ridge. You're now in and out of the open with great views while still below the summit cone. If you can ascend all the way, you've got open, clear ledges to go up and any ice should be obvious and possibly avoidable. If you have to turn back, go down the Red Spot Trail.

No matter your route, just be prepared to turn back at any point where it becomes too dangerous and keep your hike safe and fun.

 

[Angus]

I was up last week arriving on the summit at 5:15 AM - went up white cross and down white dot - relatively dry - especially up top. I wouldn't worry too much.

 

[Mike P.]

Based on the temps, rain & the lastest TR I saw which was also from 11/11, I'd suspect any ice you do come across should be new ice from the storm coming in on Thursday, how much, crampons, unlikely, some traction may not be bad to carry which would be expected this time of year.

(I'm Jefferson Bound Saturday with full crampons & maybe even snowshoes - it is winter training though)