Getting to Pack Monadnock’s 2,290-foot summit with enough food for an all-day picnic can be somewhat tricky for some of us, myself included.  I like to bring as much food and equipment as I can possibly fit into my pack which assures that I’ll be prepared in case of an emergency. Consequentially, my pack is usually hefty - dragging me down on strenuous hikes like this one. Even though the trail equates to just less than 3 miles, the consistent and arduous incline combined with the rocky and steep decline can be fairly exhausting.

After some Google-ing, I’ve learned some tricks and techniques that helped to lighten our loads while also assuring that we have enough food and other “essentials” for the trail.

We started by packing all of the other stuff besides food that we would be needing; or as author and fellow hiker Rick Dreher calls them, “The ten essentials.” While contributing with other authors for a manual published by Beartooth Mountain Press entitled, “Lightweight Backpacking 101,” Dreher included the following list of hiking essentials:

1. Bug repellent
2. Fire-starting supplies (disposable lighter or matches will do)
3. First aid kit
4. Flashlight
5. Knife
6. Map and compass
7. Sunblock
8. Whistle
9. Food
10. Water

Not only are all of these things crucial in case of an emergency, but they’re also very light which keeps us hikers happy. Although bug repellent may not be absolutely necessary for every time of the year such as the winter months, we especially made sure to bring it with us to Miller State Park so we wouldn’t have to deal with black flies, gnats, mosquitoes, or ticks.

Next we focused on food and water. Dave Shultz, another contributing author/hiker on the Lightweight Backpacking Manual, wrote that while you’re on the trail, the key things to think of are more calories, less weight, and eat while you hike. Knowing this, we loaded up on smaller snacks that contain a lot of calories including trail mix, peanut butter, chocolate, snack chips and crackers, dried fruit, and lots of granola bars.

Lastly, we focused on the non-essentials. Knowing that Miller is particularly famous for its stellar panoramas, I first (and most obviously) grabbed my camera. Another non-essential that I would consider perfect for this park is a set of binoculars. Sadly, neither of us had a pair handy.

Now that our backpacks were ready, we headed out on our expedition following the Marion Davis Trail which is blazed by blue triangles.

My friend, whose name also happens to be Andrew, leads the way on the Marion Davis Trail

Thanks to our light backpacks, the hour-long hike was fairly painless. Don’t get me wrong, the 1.4-mile climb took some dedication but the views were well worth the effort.

After climbing the tower, catching a brief tour of the fire tower cabin, and taking lots of photos of the surrounding vista, we headed down to the picnic tables to find a place to relax and re-energize. We then witnessed the essence of what makes this park truly unique.

There, sitting at a picnic table on the top of a mountain, Andrew and I gazed upon the seemingly never-ending countryside grazing upon granola and chomping through apples.

We enjoyed our time at the top but before too long, it was time to descend. We decided to take the Wapack Trail back to the parking lot, which turned out to be one of the best decisions of the day—a perfect view of Mt. Monadnock was directly in front of us for most of the trip down.

This is the main reason why the Wapack Trail is the best way down from the summit.

The Wapack Trail, blazed by yellow triangles, is the same distance from the parking lot to the summit as the Marion Davis Trail. The main difference is that the Wapack is covered by thick canopy of evergreens which helped to shade us from the sun and keep us from overheating. Pretty soon, the leaves will be fully bloomed for summer so both trails will provide a canopy.

Happy trails everybody!

Have you ever seen the Boston skyscrapers from the summit of Pack Monadnock at Miller State Park?

Click on the images below to view:

Cresson Covered Bridge, Swanzey NH

“Over the River they beckon to me,/Loved ones who crossed to the further side;
The gleam of their snowy robes I see, But their voices are lost on the dashing tide.
There’s one with ringlets of sunny gold/ and eyes the reflection of heaven’s own blue;
He crossed in the twilight, gray and cold/ and the pale mist hid him from mortal view.”

Over the River was written one stormy April day around 1860 by Nancy Priest Wakefield who was a young woman who worked in a factory along the Ashuelot River in Southern New Hampshire.  As I took my family on this journey to explore a portion of the river, I thought about Nancy’s experiences as a mill worker and how timeless this pristine part of New Hampshire continues to be.

Our family began our trek at the Cresson Bridge just south of Keene NH along Route 10. Follow Matthews Road on Route 10 for a mile or so and you reach this lovely landmark. Bikers can pick up the trail here.

The Ashuelot Recreational Trail follows 21 miles of this historic river. The small section we walked took us about an hour to go from trailhead to the bridge and back; numerous games of Poohsticks* included.

The Ashuelot River is rich with history and natural beauty, protected by a myriad of conservation groups. The Southwest Region Planning Commission and Keene State College created a wonderful map which you can find here. We were on an adventure searching for a section of the Ashuelot Rail Trail which bordered the River in Winchester and Hinsdale - Nancy Wakefield’s section.

View of Mt. Cresson from Rt. 10

Once we reached Winchester, we followed the map provided by Winchester Trailriders, Inc. Near the Winchester/Hinsdale border we found a trailhead and parked. The walk along this section of trail cuts through a wetland which twists along the Ashuelot toward the Connecticut River.

This area was filled with mills and factories from a century ago. It felt timeless watching my children run ahead on a trail originally made for steam engines and rail cars.

From the trailhead, we passed numerous patches of wildflowers and wild strawberries. This bridge provided a lovely view of the river and a great spot to stop and play Pooh-sticks*.

*Poohsticks is a game played in The House at Pooh Corner, by A.A.Milne. You choose a perfectly streamlined stick, with maximum buoyancy, and drop it from one side of a bridge, then run to the other side to see whose stick appears first.

The poetry of Nancy Priest Wakefield came from a text titled, “The Poets of New Hampshire, by Bela Chapin in 1883.  Its collection of 300 poems can be found online as a free ebook here.

“Over the River”, by Nancy A. Wakefield

OVER the river they beckon to me,— Loved ones who ‘ve cross’d to the farther side; The gleam of their snowy robes I see But their voices are drown’d in the rushing tide. There ‘s one with ringlets of sunny gold, And eyes, the reflection of heaven’s own blue; He crossed in the twilight, gray and cold, And the pale mist hid him from mortal view. We saw not the angels who met him there; The gates of the city we could not see; Over the river, over the river, My brother stands waiting to welcome me.

Over the river, the boatman pale Carried another,—the household pet: Her brown curls waved in the gentle gale— Darling Minnie! I see her yet. She cross’d on her bosom her dimpled hands, And fearlessly enter’d the phantom bark; We watch’d it glide from the silver sands, And all our sunshine grew strangely dark. We know she is safe on the farther side, Where all the ransom’d and angels be; Over the river, the mystic river, My childhood’s idol is waiting for me.

For none return from those quiet shores, Who cross with the boatman cold and pale; We hear the dip of the golden oars, And catch a gleam of the snowy sail,— And lo! they have pass’d from our yearning heart; They cross the stream, and are gone for aye; We may not sunder the veil apart, That hides from our vision the gates of day. We only know that their barks no more May sail with us o’er life’s stormy sea; Yet somewhere, I know, on the unseen shore, They watch, and beckon, and wait for me.

And I sit and think, when the sunset’s gold Is flushing river, and hill, and shore, I shall one day stand by the water cold, And list for the sound of the boatman’s oar; I shall watch for a gleam of the flapping sail; I shall hear the boat as it gains the strand; I shall pass from sight, with the boatman pale, To the better shore of the spirit land; I shall know the loved who have gone before,— And joyfully sweet will the meeting be, When over the river, the peaceful river, The Angel of Death shall carry me.

Other useful links:

http://des.nh.gov/organization/divisions/water/dwgb/wrpp/documents/primer_chapter2.pdf

http://www.railstotrails.org/news/recurringfeatures/trailmonth/archives/0302.html

According to the NH Dept. of Environmental Services, NH’s rivers and streams cover 17,000 miles! I hope you are inspired to explore some of their treasures this spring! Have you ever found yourself wandering a river-route searching for surprises around every bend?

Click on the images below to view:

“I walk wherever the weather provides because everybody needs some time outside. Give me no lip and I tell you no lie.”- Clutch, Pure Rock Fury

A view east off of the Cascade Link trail on Monadnock. The Wapack Range is on the horizon while Gilson Pond (closest) and Thorndike Pond (largest) are in sight. 05.15.13. Photo by Patrick Hummel

*Please note that the Monadnock Weekly Report will not be published next Friday, 05.24.13. Please call Monadnock State Park directly with questions: 603-532-8862

Mount Monadnock’s Thoreau Bog located on the North Ridge of the mountain. 05.15.13. Photo by Patrick Hummel.

After a bit of a cold stretch, the Spring weather and conditions have hit their stride on Mount Monadnock. Some of the early flowers, such as Painted Trillium and Soloman’s Seal are out. My favorite, the Rhodora, are not far behind. Mountain Ash leaves are returning and the serene sounds of songbirds dance through the mountain’s forests.

The Rhodora are about to pop on Monadnock. 05.15.13. Photo by Patrick Hummel.

The trails on Monadnock are relatively dry and the upcoming forecast looks generally favorable. Despite the slight chance of a shower on Saturday, the weekend is shaping up to be a nice one in the Monadnock Region. Temperatures can be expected to reach only into the mid 60′s at the base of the mountain and partly sunny skies are likely.

A cool rock formation found off of Mt. Monadnock’s North Ridge. 05.15.13. Photo by Patrick Hummel.

Campers at the now-open Gilson Pond Campground at Monadnock State Park will experience overnight temperatures in the low 40′s.

Next to the eastern entrance of Monadnock’s Parker Trail. 05.15.13. Photo by Patrick Hummel.

Black flies and ticks are still abundant. The black flies are mostly a bother in the low elevations, thinning in numbers as you head up. Aside from the usual precautions, you can also avoid picking up ticks by staying on the trail.

Day Trippers

Connecticut viewers of the television affiliate FOX CT may have already seen Mount Monadnock featured this week on the “Day Trippers” segment. A link for the rest of us to see it (including me) will be available in the next few days. Check here for the updates and link when it becomes available. Thank you again to Fox CT and to Sarah Cody for visiting, climbing, and featuring Grand Monadnock on their program!

The summit of Monadnock was visited by the crew of FOX CT earlier this month. This photo from 05.15.13. by Patrick Hummel.

Twist and Shout!

Mount Monadnock has an array of interesting trees that grew in unusual contortions in order to survive. One of my favorites is a pine located on the Smith Connecting, which I refer to as the Twister Tree. Check this guy out!

The base of the Twister Tree on the Smith Connecting Trail. 05.15.13. Photo by Patrick Hummel.

Don’t confuse this with the old “Twisted Birch” that you may have seen mentioned on old Monadnock maps near the Cart Path.

The full view of the Twister Tree. 05.15.13. Photo by Patrick Hummel.

Monadnock History of the Week

This week, we are going to keep it a little bit more simple with our look back in time at Monadnock State Park. Instead of a story from the mountain’s storied past, I dug this photograph out of the Monadnock State Park archives to share and contemplate.

A group of young men prepare for the Monadnock climb, reviewing the old map on the front of the Warden’s Cabin (now known as the Park Office) at Monadnock State Park Headquarters.

This photograph is dated July 22, 1967, and was taken in front of what is now the Monadnock State Park office at the base of the White Dot Trail. For comparison nearly 50 years later, here is today’s view:

The Warden’s Cabin today. 05.16.13. Photo by Patrick Hummel.

The sign for the entrance of the White Dot Trail is now on the right side of the trail, out of frame. The flag pole was moved from the front to the side of the building and the Visitor Center (originally called the Eco-Center) was not built until 1969, two years after the old photo was taken. Other differences are easily found, including the payphone, which is starting to become a noticeably dated item now.

But, what I find neat about comparing photographs like this is to focus on what hasn’t changed.

Evidence of an old trail blaze from Monadnock’s historical (now defunct) Pezer Trail, located in the eastern woods near the base of the mountain. 05.15.13. Photo by Patrick Hummel.

 
Over time, what hasn’t changed, for you, about Mount Monadnock and Monadnock State Park?

“The birds are singing in your eyes today. Sweet flowers blossom in your smile. The wind and sun are in the words you say. Where might your lonesome lover be?”- Woody Guthrie

The leaves are out on Monadnock’s Parker Trail! Trail entrance and bridge near the Poole Reservoir dam photographed by Patrick Hummel, 05.10.13.

 
It has been a busy week in the trees around the lower elevations of Monadnock. In a very short period of time, the leaves have sprung from their buds and the forest scenery is becoming more and more seasonably green in color.

The leaves are out at the base of Monadnock, and the trees in the middle of the mountain are not far behind. Photo by Patrick Hummel, 05.10.13

We have welcomed periods of rain at Monadnock since Wednesday. And even though the sun shines brightly on the mountain today, thunderstorms and scattered showers may pop up this afternoon and evening.

Bald Rock and beyond, viewed from the White Arrow Trail. 05.06.13. Photo by Patrick Hummel.

We’re expecting overcast skies and more rain to move into the Region for Saturday.

Showers may carry over Saturday night, into Sunday morning. We hope to see some clearing and a return of sunshine as the day progresses on Sunday, continuing into the start of next week.

The same bud featured in last week’s blog is now “open for the season”. 05.10.13. Photo by Patrick Hummel.

Overnight temperatures through the weekend are expected to fall into the low 50′s. We should see some cooling off in the daytime on Sunday, and into next week, with high temperatures at the base of the mountain reaching the low to mid 60′s.

A view to the south from Monadnock’s summit, including nearby Perkins Pond where Route 124 runs through the middle. 05.06.13. Photo by Patrick Hummel.

Especially in the lowest elevations, the black flies and mosquitoes are creating a formidable team to contend with. If you’re a hiker or camper that utilizes bug spray, now is the time to bring it! Bug spray is available in the Monadnock HQ Park Store, along with our new logo t-shirts.

As mentioned in previous reports, ticks are also out in great numbers this year. Take precautions, check yourself and your hiking partners over periodically, and stay on trail!

They won’t help with the bugs, but spun cotton t-shirts with our new Monadnock State Park logo are now available in the store. Men’s and Women’s styles and colors are available for only $14 each. Patches, pins, and stickers featuring the new Monadnock logo should be in soon.

She was a Day Tripper…

Emmy award winning journalist Sarah Cody of Fox CT takes in the view on her way up Monadnock. 05.06.13. Photo by Patrick Hummel.

I had the pleasure of guiding Fox CT up and down Grand Monadnock this past week. The Connecticut television affiliate will be featuring Mount Monadnock on their “Day Trippers” segment next week, airing locally in Connecticut first on Thursday, May 16th. The segment will be available online for everyone to see shortly afterwards and we will provide the link on our blog and NH State Park Social Media outlets when it becomes available.

Fox CT cameraman Scott Vargas taking his TV equipment where rarely a TV camera has been carried before! Photo by Patrick Hummel, 05.06.13.

I want to thank Sarah Cody from Fox CT, and also cameraman Scott Vargas, for coming out to explore and share our treasured mountain and patiently listening to me bombard them with Monadnock stories and folklore all day. I had a great time and look forward to the feature!

Patrick Hummel, Sarah Cody, and Scott Vargas on the summit of Monadnock. 05.06.13. Photo courtesy of Sarah Cody.

 This Week in Monadnock History

It was this week, 25 years ago, that a ceremony took place celebrating Mount Monadnock’s designation as a National Natural Landmark.

National Natural Landmarks (NNL) is a United States National Parks program, started in May of 1962, that recognizes natural places that contain “outstanding biological and geological resources” and features.

The top of the original flyer for the Monadnock Dedication Day, 1988. Courtesy of Ben Haubrich.

On May 7th, 1988, a full day of activities, including an official dedication, were tied in to celebrate Monadnock’s designation. Guests included then-New Hampshire Governor John Sununu and former Monadnock State Park Manager Charlie Royce (1962-1972).

A full day of presentations and programs, partnered with the Harris Center and the Society For The Protection of New Hampshire Forests, kicked off at 9am at Monadnock State Park Headquarters. Talks on birding, forest management, wild flowers, Henry David Thoreau, and land protection were included throughout the day.

The North Ridge of Mount Monadnock leading down to Dublin “Lake”, 05.06.13. Photo by Patrick Hummel.

Interestingly, the plaque to commemorate Monadnock as a NNL, shipped by the National Parks Service, arrived at Monadnock only a week and a half before the ceremony and contained a misspelling! Our mountain’s name adorned the original plaque as Mount “Manadnock”.

With no time to fully correct the bronze surface and lettering, then-Park Manager Ben Haubrich temporarily “fixed it” for the day with the use of black electrical tape and a gold marker. Yankee Ingenuity! Ben recalled that nobody at the ceremony noticed the “o” being different than the rest of the lettering. It would take nearly a year (and many phone calls) before the National Parks Service would take it back to be repaired.

The corrected plaque can now be found on the front of the Monadnock Headquarters Park Store.

The plaque commemorating Mount Monadnock as a National Natural Landmark. Photo by Patrick Hummel.

The path to recognize Mount Monadnock’s natural importance as a NNL began in April of 1969 and was proposed by Leslie Clark; executive secretary for the NH Forest Society (SPNHF). It was again pursued in 1982 and evaluated for the final time by the National Parks Service in April of 1985.

Though the celebration was organized for May of 1988, Mount Monadnock was officially designated by the Parks Service as a National Natural Landmark in 1987, nearly 20 years after it was first proposed.

Our mountain’s inclusion in the National Natural Landmarks program is important, as it solidifies, on a larger scale, the ecological and geological wonders contained within. It is another reason to be proud of the true treasure we are fortunate to have; what may now be considered officially a “National Treasure”.

What the NNL designation proves is that this mountain can also serve as a classroom, and a platform to study, learn, and understand the world that we share on a deeper level. Monadnock plays many roles in our lives. Among the many ways Monadnock has given to me, I have always considered this mountain to be a great teacher. The National Parks Service would agree.

Two Monadnock hikers taking in the view from the summit of our National Natural Landmark. 05.06.13. Photo by Patrick Hummel.

The 16 acre natural rhododendron grove at nearby Rhododendron State Park in Fitzwilliam, NH, is also designated a National Natural Landmark, joining the program in 1982. The rhododendrons will be in bloom in July and more information (and soon, bloom reports!) can be found here.

The walk to to the pond started from a spacious parking and picnic area with a pavilion dedicated to the Civilian Conservation Corps who built the structure in the 1930′s. Although the trail to the pond is well-trodden, the trail around the pond is strewn with wear from the snowy winter. It is still very walkable and takes less than an hour to circumnavigate the pond.

This inlet becomes a stream which leads into vernal pools just around a small bend.  There are trees filled with holes from all sizes of birds from titmouse to pileated woodpecker. Beavers and deer left their marks on the trees as well.  Along the far shore, we spotted mallards and a wood duck.

I was able to find frog eggs in the vernal pools, surrounded by water striders, whose shadows make visible their almost transparently slim frames.

Before leaving the Park, I decided to look again from the vantage point Aaron took to seek out wildlife.  I was thrilled to see this pickerel basking in the shallows!  I confess to the readers that I thought this was a juvenile pike but my husband questioned my identification.  He held that pickerel were more common.  After an exhaustive search…we found this site which proved this is indeed a pickerel!

This park is a hidden gem tucked away on Cathedral Road in Rindge. It lies a few hundred yards from the entrance to southern New Hampshire’s famous landmark Cathedral of the Pines.  Anyone visiting the area would find a wonderful dichotomy of nature in the cultivated profusion of wildflowers cared for at the Cathedral, combined with the wild, pristine beauty of Annette Wayside Park.

My question for you , do you have a favorite memory of sighting or catching a fish?

Everett Lake at Clough State Park in Weare is absolutely full of charm. Whether you’re looking to lay out on a beach,  picnic by the water, or take an energizing swim this is the perfect springtime park. I couldn’t have picked a better place to dust off my kayak!

I began my experience by snacking on an apple at a beautiful picnic area which was sandwiched between the parking lot and the beach. From this shady vantage point, I saw the entire lake to the west, the Everett dam to the south, and the beach which gave me a great idea for how to start my adventure.

The view from the picnic table

After scouting (and eating), I then jumped in my kayak, launching from the beach. First I paddled toward the northern side of the lake, which is dominated by shallow marshy canals, secluded nooks, and small lagoons. Keep an eye out for camouflaged picnic tables along the shoreline if you’re looking for a picnicking area that’s more off-the-beaten-path.

Straying from the shallows, I worked my way toward the center of the lake to get a full 360-degree view of the park.

This was, by far, the most serene part of the adventure–the giant white pines surrounded me on all sides, a gentle breeze carried me across the water, small waves rippled against the side of my kayak, a hawk circled above, and I simply relaxed catching a free ride across the shimmering water to my next stop—the 900-square-foot beach.

 After landing, I climbed out of the kayak and steeped in the sun for a few minutes. The sand was cool, offering an ideal bed on a sun-drenched day. I dug my toes in, reached for my cooler and after a banana or two, I reclined into the cushioning sand underneath the cloudless sky. Even though there were others on the beach with me, we were spread out over such a large area that I felt like I had my own section. The park’s quiet peacefulness took over from there.

After lazing out on the sand, I decided to get active and hike my way over to the dam. At this point, I was wishing that I had my bike because the breadth of the trails became more apparent from the top of the 250-foot dam.

A view of the ATV and dirt biking trails alongside the dam.

Although I was disappointed with my decision to leave the bike behind, I was too stunned by the view to feel the pain of my own folly. From here, I saw the park in its entirety including the point where the Piscataquog River meets with the lake.

To conclude my visit, I sat at the edge of the dam looking out over the sparkling blue water trying (albeit impossibly) to capture all of this park’s wondrous beauty and thinking to myself, “Next time, I won’t forget my bike… or my bathing suit.”

What’s your favorite season?

Click on the photos below

“Men hang out their signs indicative of their respective trades; shoemakers hang out a gigantic shoe; jewelers a monster watch, and the dentist hangs out a gold tooth; but in the mountains of New Hampshire, God Almighty has hung out a sign to show that there, He makes men.” – (attributed to) Daniel Webster

It was 10 years ago today that our Old Man of the Mountain, the symbol of the State of New Hampshire and whose likeness still graces the shoulders of our State Park uniforms, fell in the middle of the night. The Old Man of The Mountain, in Franconia Notch State Park, finally lost its ancient battle against erosion and gravity on May 3, 2003. The profile was first pointed out to settlers by the Native Americans in 1805. And while this occurred nearly 100 miles away from Grand Monadnock (there are chiseled dates on Monadnock’s summit older than the “discovery” of the Old Man, by the way), the geological formation that Nathaniel Hawthorne referred to as “The Great Stone Face”, proved to be a lasting icon who still touches our hearts. I am proud that the State continues to use the Old Man in its symbols, logos, and signage, and that he is still remembered at the Profile Plaza off of I-93 where a ceremony took place today. Many people don’t understand how the Old Man of the Mountain moved or inspired us so much. Some people don’t understand what his image, and even his story, stirred in us for 200 years. To this day, I still can not travel through Franconia Notch State Park, even in fog or after nightfall, without my eyes peering up to the ledges of Cannon Mountain where he once watched over us; sometimes I still say “hello” to him. Admitting that I greet, out loud, a stone formation that isn’t even there anymore, sounds absurd, even to me. But, yet, it feels like a natural thing to do when I am there, in the moment. I suppose it speaks to how the outdoors can foster deep emotions in us and influence us in ways that we have a hard time explaining, even to ourselves; we let our minds go and allow for a timeless and ancient deeply rooted connection to the guiding splendor and beauty of Nature. For many of us, the Old Man was a literal and figurative reflection of us as a people, as well as a personification of our storied and beloved New Hampshire mountains.

The First U.S. Postal stamp featuring the Old Man of the Mountain, issued on June 21, 1955, to commemorate the 150th anniversary of the “discovery” of the Great Stone Face.

An image of the Old Man hangs over the desk in the Monadnock State Park office today, alongside President Lincoln. They were very different in life, but their impact on me, as a person, contain parralels and I draw daily inspiration from both. I realize neither have many ties to this mountain, and even though they are gone, their influence remains and I am comforted by their still, distinctive images that look over me in my duties while serving Grand Monadnock and the State of New Hampshire.

Monadnock’s own profile, “The Imp”, can still be found off of the Cascade Link. Photo by Patrick Hummel.

Monadnock Trail Conditions

Monadnock’s trails are all almost completely void of any evidence of winter. You would be hard-pressed to find any snow or ice on any trails at this time. With the recent lack of rain, the trails are relatively dry now, as a whole.

Morning clouds roll over Monadnock. 05.03.13. Photo by Patrick Hummel.

The upcoming forecast for the Monadnock Region looks very favorable, with daytime temperatures through the weekend and into next week in the upper 60′s. Campers this weekend will continue to experience colder nights, with overnight temperatures at the base of Monadnock dropping into the upper 30′s.

Mount Kearsarge viewed between the rocks from near the summit of Monadnock. Photo by Patrick Hummel.

The black flies are starting to come out now, although they are not too much of a nuisance yet, their numbers are growing. If you are easily disturbed by black flies, some bug spray in your pack should be considered.

Buds are ready to pop at the base of Monadnock. 05.03.13. Photo by Patrick Hummel.

Ticks are out in great abundance, so hikers and campers need to take precautions and check themselves over for ticks periodically. And stay on trail to minimize the chances of a tick finding you.

Signs of Spring’s progress near Poole Reservoir at Monadnock State Park HQ. 05.03.13. Photo by Patrick Hummel.

This Week in Monadnock History

This week, as we reflect on the Old Man Of The Mountain, I also reflected on the men who have served Monadnock State Park over the years. In the 80 years that staff have worked at Monadnock State Park, I am the 8th Park Manager who has had the privilege of overseeing this cherished mountain. While our titles have changed over the years (Park Superintendent, Chief Ranger, Park Warden, Park Manager, etc.), our roles and responsibilities are largely the same. This week, we will give a nod to and learn a little bit more about Monadnock’s second Park Manager, George W. Quinn.

Monadnock Manager George W. Quinn, mid-1940′s, photographed at what is now (and then) the Monadnock HQ picnic area.

George Quinn was born in 1884. “Second generation Irish,” Quinn resided in the town of Temple, NH where he moved to in the early 1900′s. Quinn worked a few jobs in his life, in addition to his work at Monadnock. George ran the family farm and served for many years as the local State Highway Foreman. He oversaw the original paving of Route 101 between Wilton and Peterborough. Quinn was also active in community politics and served as a selectman, in addition to other posts.

George Quinn photographed at Monadnock with his son David Quinn, one of his seven children. David served as a Marine in World War II and was killed in action at Tarawa, in the Central Pacific, in 1943.

We do not have record of exactly when George Quinn took over supervisory duties at Monadnock, but it is thought to have been sometime in the early 1940′s. Quinn served in the post until 1950.

George Quinn’s wife, Kittie Quinn, worked at Monadnock part time, running the concession stand. Kittie would also be there to help out in search and rescue cases, often boiling coffee for when the staff and hiker(s) in need would return to the base.

A view of the Monadnock Warden’s Cabin (now known as the Park Office), at the start of the White Dot Trail, in the 1930s. The small structure on the right was esentially the first toll booth. It was eventually moved to the area of the current Visitor Center where it was used as a storage shed before being dismantled.

George would live on site, overnighting at what is now the Monadnock Park Office during the weekends. He drove his Model A back home to Temple during the middle of the week.

Today’s view of the above postcard. Gone are the flag pole, toll booth, and most of the birches. Photo by Patrick Hummel.

Former Monadnock Manager Charlie Royce, who grew up in Jaffrey, remembers seeing George Quinn driving his Model A. All of the local kids knew his car and would point out Mr. Quinn as the Superintendent of Monadnock when he drove by.

George Quinn passed away in 1956, not long after leaving his post at Monadnock State Park.

A closer view of the “Warden’s Cabin”. George Quinn was the last Manager to live in the building. His successor, Charlie Burrage (1950-1962), refused to live there. A CCC building was moved from the Connecticut River Valley into the Park and has been used as the Monadnock Manager’s Residence ever since. Photo by Patrick Hummel.

I want to thank the Quinn family for their remembrances and for the photographs of George, which we house in our Park archives.

I want to also thank George, and the rest of my predecessors, for their long and diligent service to Mount Monadnock and Monadnock State Park. I could not be prouder to be a part of the mountain’s history.

Hikers at the summit on a warm Spring Day. Photo by Patrick Hummel.

“…Birds sing to you at night. The rain and the sun, the changing seasons are true friends. Solitude is a hard won ally, faithful and patient. Yes, I think I know you.” – Henry Rollins, Black Coffee Blues

A unique rock formation off of Monadnock’s Marian Trail. 04.24.13. Photo by Patrick Hummel.

Winter may have exhaled its final breath on the Monadnock Region this past week. On Tuesday, overcast skies dominated and temperatures at the base of Monadnock never reached higher than the mid 30′s. Wind chills at the summit were in the single digits. Temperatures actually climbed overnight into Wednesday morning and then jumped 25 degrees in a matter of 4 hours, reaching into the low 70′s by the afternoon.

The trees on Monadnock will be popping with new life soon. This view of the southern shoulder taken from “Little Mountain” off of the Parker Trail. 04.24.13. Photo by Patrick Hummel.

After some possible light rain this afternoon and early evening, the forecast for Mount Monadnock looks generally favorable through the weekend and leading into next week. We expect to be enjoying partly sunny skies and temps at the mountain’s base in the low to mid 60′s. However, hikers should bring layers and expect colder conditions above treeline.

On Monadnock’s western flanks, the upper reaches of Fox Brook are still frozen. 04.24.13. Photo by Patrick Hummel.

Campers can expect  fairly clear overnight conditions, but temperatures will drop into the mid 30′s over the weekend and into next week.

Well shaded pockets, like this one on the Marlboro Trail, are still clinging to snow and ice. Photo taken on a 70 degree day, 04.24.13, by Patrick Hummel.

There are a few remaining patches of snow and ice scattered in the shaded middle elevations of Monadnock. Some short stretches may require light spikes on select trails, but most of the trails have dried out.

Hikers enjoying the summit, as viewed from the Marlboro Trail. 04.24.13. Photo by Patrick Hummel.

The black flies and mosquitoes are not out just yet, so it is a really nice time to hike. However, we are seeing a lot of tick activity in the Region, so be sure to take precautions and check yourself for ticks after your hike. Stay on trail to help minimize the chances for picking one up.

Monadnock’s Mossy Brook, which parralel’s its namesake trail. 04.24.13. Photo by Patrick Hummel.

The Blog Continues…

There might have been some confusion caused by some wording in a previous blog entry that led some readers to believe that the Monadnock Weekly Report would not continue after the completion of Winter. I just wanted to reassure any concerned followers that this is not the case and that the Monadnock Weekly Report will continue to be posted each Friday throughout the entire year.

Historic stone wall along the Cart Path. 04.24.13. Photo by Patrick Hummel.

This Week’s Monadnock Historical Landmark

For this week’s look back in time, we will visit a little known structure that once stood on the south face of Monadnock’s summit; the Rain Shelter.

The most common image I have found of the Rain Shelter, featured on an old postcard.

Monadnock author Allen Chamberlain credits Monadnock trail blazer Scott A. Smith with the building of the rain shelter in 1910, however, it is thought that Smith and his Monadnock hiking friends, known to the Half Way House Hotel guests as the “Woodshed Gang,” raised funds for its construction. This small stone building was set against a flat ledge, using rocks taken from around the summit for its walls and featured a tin roof.

It was located on the south face of Monadnock’s summit, just east of the White Arrow trail and, of course, was purposed to shield climbers above treeline who might be inadvertently caught in a storm.

“Rainy Day Women”. A less commonly found image of the Rain Shleter on Monadnock. You can see in this photograph how small the Rain Shelter was.

The Rain Shelter stood for 28 years until the Hurricane of 1938 came ripping through New England in September. In addition to wreaking havoc on the trails of Mount Monadnock, like it did in many towns and cities of New England, the great storm also blew the roof off of the Rain Shelter.

The roof was never replaced and the remains of the Rain Shelter eventually were dismantled.

The location site of the Rain Shelter, as viewed on 04.24.13. Photo by Patrick Hummel.

“No Shelter”

Even though climbers today have better access to more protective clothing and increased technology in weather forecasting, the weather continues to be a concern for our visitors. There are no longer any structures to shield hikers from conditions at Monadnock’s summit, but the weather patterns and sudden changes in weather above treeline continue.

Monadnock’s height may not be intimidating on paper, but its geographic isolation and elevation above the surrounding area can often cause it to mimic higher peaks in many ways. Mount Monadnock can attract its own weather patterns that may differ from conditions even at its base. 90+mph winds, blinding snow, driving rain, dense fog, and striking thunder storms are no stranger to this mountain’s heights and have caused life threatening situations.

The remains of the Rain Shelter. 04.24.13. Photo by Patrick Hummel.

The Rain Shelter may have served as a crude sanctuary for climbers 100 years ago, but today’s hikers especially need to be prepared and practice good judgment when venturing above treeline. We are coming into the time of year when thunderstorms can suddenly and unexpectedly interrupt an otherwise banner day. You do not want to be the highest point in southern New Hampshire during a thunderstorm, so climbers should descend slowly and carefully down the mountain at the first sign of a storm and get below treeline and off any exposed ledges as quickly and safely as possible.

For more information on hiker safety, click here.

“Know before you go!”

A clear view off of Monadnock’s White Cross Trail. 04.24.13. Photo by Patrick Hummel.

My family and I brought our Bassett, Rue, to walk a section bordering Rindge and Jaffrey, between Rt. 202 and the Contoocook River.

Rue discovered that a fox had just passed!

 The path is wide and well graveled, with gently sloping sides so snow-melt didn’t pool and puddle where we walked.

One of the nice benches along the trail to relax on.

There was evidence of snowmobiles in the recent past with many spots of snow patches in the shadier areas.  Bikes were also in evidence, with some deep ruts attesting to the spring softness of the earth beneath the gravel.  The walk was easy, and there were a few others we met walking each way.  The path took us to Contoocook River, where the current melted the ice and water birds were beginning their nests.

Blackbird nest

We saw a pair of Great Blue Herons fishing, and a flock of Canada Geese made themselves very visible.  The ducks were less flamboyant, a quiet black duck pair hid in the marsh grass and cattails.  Mallards peaked about further on, clearly looking for nesting sites.

Fishing Heron on the Contoocook River

We walked across the Jaffrey line and turned back, just in time to witness a fox jump across the path.  We searched for its tracks, but only found deer tracks in the hardened snow.  A beautiful side trip on this stretch is a trail leading to some benches with a lovely view of the river.  Along this path we found a letterbox hidden in a tree, and made sure to leave a message in the notebook.

A Letterbox hid in a tree!

There were a few tree identification signs posted as an eagle scout project years before.  This little path looped back to the rail trail, circling a vernal pool which will be filled with peepers as soon as the ice melts enough.

The high school I work in happens to be across the street from another section of the Monadnock Rail Trail.  I took a group of students with their teacher, David Hunt, to take pictures and enjoy a 45 minute hike.

Welcome to Rails to Trails, hikers!

Some of these students have run the trail during track practice, and they helped us by pointing out where side trails led to.

A lovely place of remembrance for local, Jack Dupre

One special trail tangent is the Children’s Woods, a gift of the Annette family as a Nature Trail for children to learn about wildflowers and trees.

Children’s Woods pathway from Monadnock Rail Trail

This trail is a few miles long and winds throughout the Contoocook River.  The Monadnock Rail Trail is less windy, following closely the path of Rt. 202.  Although the trip with the students was less balmy than a few days before, when I ventured with my family, leaving school midday to explore this local trail was a welcome adventure!

Reflections of trees in Contoocook River

It was easy to wander over a mile, with markers every tenth mile, then turn back.

Marking the mile

When I walked with my family, we saw many nests that blackbirds would soon be filling.  On the student trip a week later, we were able to listen to dozens of blackbirds getting to know each other and their territory again.

Beaver attack!

This will be a wonderful local spot to watch evolve through the season!

Small ripple in the reflecting Contoocook River

I remember a friend once told me she marked spring by when the Canada Geese flew back to New Hampshire.  For myself, I watch for buds on my trees to let me know winter is fading.  My sons listen for peepers and wood frogs to emerge from hibernation.

What heralds the start of spring for you, reader?  Share your thoughts in the comments below!

Thanks to the students of Conant High School, Jaffrey NH for many of the photos and captions: Tony DeCarolis, Devin Foster, Austin Damon, Kirkland Pyhala, Zach Pelletier, Carolyn Wiley

Some site to learn more about Monadnock Rail Trail…

• Monadnock Recreational Rail Trail (Bureau of Trails webpage)
• Monadnock Branch Rail Trail (TrailLink: Rails to Trails Conservancy)
• Recreation in Jaffrey: Jaffrey Chamber of Commerce

As New Hampshire’s only botanical park, Rhododendron State Park has a lot to offer for nature- and flower-lovers alike. It is most famous for its magnificent flowering display, which takes place when the rhododendrons bloom in mid-July. The plants provide a brilliant spectacle, blanketing the trails with pinkish-white buds. Follow the 0.6-mile Rhododendron Trail Loop for the best displays.

Rhododendron Maximum is shade-tolerant species that prefers acidic soils. Its large leaves help to absorb light.

Even though this photo was taken in mid-April, this rhododendron’s leaves are still drooping to protect it from the snowy winter.

It’s rare and uncommon for these shrubs to thrive in New Hampshire. Still, Rhododendron State Park  features the largest grove in New England.

In some parts of the park, the rhododendron are so plentiful that they form a tunnel around the trail.

To find my favorite vista, follow the Rhododendron Trail Loop from the parking lot until you meet up with the Laurel Trail. Follow that trail until it connects to the other side of the Rhododendron Loop, then take a right. Follow this trail until you get you a bridge hanging over a shrub swamp that’s surrounded by a thicket of rhododendrons.

Come July, the bridge serves as a 360-degree vantage point for the budding display. Hopefully the snow will be long gone by then!

Along with the rhododendrons, the park also features another member of the heath family, mountain laurels. The Laurel Trail offers its own flowering exhibition in mid-June, about a month before the rhododendrons bloom.

One of the park’s many mountain laurels, which sport smaller leaves than the rhododendrons.

And if you’re looking for more flowers, there’s plenty more to go around. Wildflowers speckled throughout the 2,723-acre park blossom from early spring to first frost, putting on their final show in the fall as they harmonize with the forest’s stunning foliage. Follow the calm Wildflower Trail to capture the best of the flowering. As of April 16, 2013, the wildflowers haven’t yet awoken from their winter slumbers; however, you can expect them to reach towards the sun within the month (as long as the weather stays warm).

A bench alongside the Wildflower Trail.

If you’re up for a more strenuous hike, follow the Rhododendron Loop until you get to the Little Monadnock Mountain Trail, which leads you along a 1-mile-long trail ascending to a mesmerizing view of Mt. Monadnock.

Pets are allowed if and only if they are leashed at all times. They’re also only allowed on the Little Monadnock Trail and the Rhododendron Loop connecting it to the parking lot.

Help to keep these beautiful parks clean by taking only photos and leaving only footprints. And remember to contribute to the day-use fee to keep Rhododendron State Park and other “user-funded” parks like it well-maintained and open to the public.

Have you walked through the tunnel of rhododendrons at Rhododendron State Park?

Happy trails!