The Twins: August 11, 2019

After tackling the Cats the previous day, the three of us hit the road again to take on the Twins.

We had a pretty good plan, to meet up with Eric's sister on North Twin, hit the South peak as a group, crack some champagne to celebrate her birthday (while bathed in sun, and while enjoying the stunning views!!) Solid plan. Off we went.

It was a chilly morning, but the sun was peeking out. The (free) lot was full at the base of North Twin trail, and we were about the 10th car on the road at 7:45 AM. Busy day.

Upsettingly, it seems the Thoreau bridge is OUT. Who knew?

WHO KNEW?

The trail started off pleasantly- and actually continued to be really nice and flat for almost 3 miles.

Off we go on a nice flat path!!

There are several river crossings, most of which are very poorly marked.

One of several crossings

Overall- this trail is not always the best marked, PERIOD.  Luckily, after a few steps on a perfectly decent washout you can usually sort things out (on the uphill stretch anyway.) There are many moments where it is very apparent that people took the wrong route- so you really need to have your eyes open.
The second river crossing on ascent is a problem- the trail confidently veers off to follow some blue surveyors tape hanging from trees. Luckily, I had just read someone's trail repost that mentioned that following this tape takes you the incorrect way.
*from what I understand, there is a bushwack that meanders along the river for about a mile. I'm really a fan of the actual trail, so while I sure this is totally valid info, I only bushwack when it is absolutely necessary.*
On decent- it is the final river (so, third) crossing that will get you. And the vast majority of your friends, from the looks of the trail. Go left. That's all.
I imagine these rivers would be significant in the Spring, or during a wet summer. On this particular day, they were very rock hoppable.

ANYWAY.
Around mile 3, the trail began to go up.

Just a normal up though

The ascent is not the madness of the Hancocks, where you mosey along a flat path for miles and then go STRAIGHT UP LIKE HAND OVER DAMN FIST. But the final two miles certainly gains some elevation.

Eric and I were not offended by the terrain, although both of us felt a bit less than fresh after getting beat up on the friggin Cats the previous day. Everything on this mountain is doable though, and would be downright pleasant on a pair of new legs.

The weather began to get pretty cold, windy and crappy as we neared the summit. This was a bit of a bummer- the second socked in day in a row. UGH!!

We popped above treeline, to a place where the obviously is a great view on a nice day. Evidently, when it is clear one can see Garfield, Lafayette, and the summit of South Twin easily.
On this day we saw nothing.

AMAZING!!!!!!!

However, steps later we did see Eric's sister Jyoti, and her friend Mia, who had made it to the Summit of North Twin, just a short distance away. Since the weather was crap, they decided to save South for another day. Wise, wise women. We gave them some tiny bottles of champagne to enjoy at home, and completely forgot to take a photo. BOOOO.

So, on we hustled to the actual summit. It was a great little path.

I love tiny trees

Actual Summit

Then, we continued on another 1.3 miles to towards the South peak.
It was a very pleasant walk, in trees and ferns and greenery. There was one somewhat rocky section, which I hesitate to call a scramble, because it was really very minor. Overall, we really enjoyed this section of the hike. (there were a few places where we had to hip-hop over some mud- but it was not catastrophic!)

And then, the second summit.

Ellie is zero percent amused

Evidently, on a nice day, one would have an amazing view of Guyot, the Bonds, and a great deal of the Pemi wilderness. On this day.... just a cloud.
Can't win them all.
It wasn't nice out so we got back on trail quickly.

Down into the tiny trees

Ellie and I love the tiny tree forest!!!!!

The walk down was generally uneventful. Steep enough in places to merit attention, but nothing disgustingly challenging.
At one point, we almost got a view!

We'll take it!!!

By the time we got to the flat section, we were all feeling a bit overcooked (we blame wildcat D)
At the final river crossing we were honestly irritated by the unclear trail. While it was so minor in the big picture (we have a map, there was plenty of daylight, we are prepared) it was VERY annoying at the time to feel disoriented. Just a good reminder to always have a map, and that every trail is not as clear as one might wish for.

We made it down, to find warm, warm sunshine......

Overdone Bradlowski Family

We were a bit wrecked. My ankles and left shin had been taking a beating all summer, and this was the final straw. This was really a perfectly enjoyable hike, but the whole group of us were feeling crabby.  So we had a beer and got over it. A tough weekend hiking is still a better weekend than most people get to have!!

Why is it so nice out now?!?

So, the moral of this story is that North and South Twin are not bad mountains at all. Mind the path, and know it is going to eventually get steep (and pick a sunny day) and you'll really love it.
It's a long one, and I would never suggest a high mileage hike for a first attempt at a 4k footer. It is easier than the Hancock's and MUCH easier than the stupid face Wildcat range. (still mad, haha.) I have a feeling that the views are probably outstanding on a good day-this might be one that we choose to do again.

Strava data: (we take this with a grain of salt) 
-elevation climbed: 3,744
-miles covered: 11.4
-elapsed time: 6:45

Difficulty: Difficult. It is long, there certainly is some incline to deal with, and I imagine the river crossings are challenging/impossible in high water season. 

Views: Tough to know

Bugs: Nope

Dog friendly trail? Yes. 

Wildcat D through A: August 10 2019

All season we have had good weather. And we were promised more for this past weekend. With MUCH DELIGHT we eagerly planned to get to Isolation on Saturday, with more to come on Sunday. Very excited, we love the lovely sunny weather in the 70's, and 60's up on the hill.

BUT NO, THAT IS NOT WHAT HAPPENED.

Saturday morning, 5 AM, RAINING. The mountain forecast suddenly looked piss poor, with high winds coming off Washington, rain, and pop up Thunder.
Well, that sounded excellent. NOT.

So, plan B. Hit the Cats and check them off the list. Below treeline, much safer, trail options, etc. So off went.

We parked at the $5 Glen Ellis Falls Lot, on Route 16 just after the Pinkham Notch Visitors Center. At 7:30, it was virtually empty (at 2:30, completely full.)

The weather was crabby. Low, dark clouds. Very cool (in the 50's) and you could hear the wind on the Washington side of the road. Fun, fun.
So, as we went through the tunnel that takes you under Rt 16, and we crossed the (very low) Ellis River, we felt we had made a good choice to pass on Isolation. There's always a better day for above treeline nonsense.

Anyway. Up Wildcat Ridge Trail we went.
And yes, I mean UP. Jesus H.

First you up some normal rocks

Then some bigger rocks

Quickly, you get your first view (Washington is socked in)

Anyway. You go up more

You come to another place to see Washington in the clouds

Alternate View

And just for fun, you go up MORE!!!!

And eventually, 2 miles in, you come to Wildcat D (which is a peak with a viewing area, just past the gondola)

Hey, we can see a little something which is good!!

So the two miles of Wildcat Ridge trail to the D peak are no joke. I feel like the Cats are the peaks nobody bothers talking about, as everyone is bagging and tagging the presis, or more interesting peaks. Let me warn you, this is NOT the trail to do for your first 4k footer!!!
The good thing about the trail?
-never a dull moment
-not many other hikers
-well marked!!!
-good exercise
-a good ass kicking
-when it is over

I mean, you basically gain 2k elevation in the first two miles. So use that as your cautionary tale.

So from there, more Wildcat Ridge Trail to the A summit.
Of course, there are quite a few ups and downs, as one must deal with Summits B and C.

Onward!!! Into the rain!!!

 It is about 2 miles in between summits and continues to be NOT dull. Plus, it kept raining. It happens, but it is dumb.

Thrilled

We found the very casual peak of Wildcat A, tucked amongst some trees.

Hi

For a hot minute, the sun came out and we almost had a view of the Carters!!!

A really nice moment!!!!

 However... soon enough we were back into the trees and back into the rain.

Gloom

We didn't like the sound of descending the two miles from peak D to the lot.
Luckily, there is an option.

YAYYY Take the gondola down!!!! JK. We did not. Also- those clouds? THUNDER.

But you CAN take these trails down, and you can also take them up (and YES, it does COUNT!) If you want to cut about 90% of the crap out of the cats, just take the ski trail. It is wicked boring, but wicked safe (and since I have my eye on redlining, I'm glad we took the Ridge trail. but only for that reason, haha!!)

God damn super highway

Love the lovely ski trail

 Just when we thought we were in the clear, we heard a HUGE RUMBLE OF THUNDER.
SHIT.
We looked at one another. "LET'S RUN" we cried! As we dashed madly down the mountain. Just in the nick of time we made it to the ski lodge, and took cover for 20 or so minutes while the skies opened up.
There was no way we were getting a ride back to the car on this particular day (grouchy looking tourists with tantrum children do not want to give hikers a lift!) So we hoofed it back down death trap route 16.

Luckily, at Pinkham one is able to connect to the Lost Pond trail (which is kind of a disaster after the first little stretch.) Regardless, nobody should walk on Rt 16.

On cue, the sun came out. 

About a mile or so of walking, and we made it back.

DONE

Don't let the sunny pic fool you. It was still raining!!!! Ridiculous!

Absolutely the most challenging hike of the season. You legit need some miles under your belt before attempting this trail (or, take the ski trail. this really eliminates much/most of the hardship!!)
A crummy weather day in the mountains is still a good day, so despite all my bitching I still had a nice time with my lovely husband, and terrific dog (who loved her day!!)

Plus, this checked #23 and #24 off the list. Officially half way there!!!

Strava data: (we take this with a grain of salt) 
-elevation climbed: 3,826
-miles covered: 10.5
-elapsed time: 6:51

Difficulty: Strenuous. Certainly a trail that will wear you right out. However, my belief is if one was to stick to the ski trail this would rank as moderate. 

Views: Several spots within the first mile, nice view of Washington from the ski trails, and the observation deck. And a good look at the Carters from the A peak view point. 

Bugs: Nope

Dog friendly trail? Ish. Our dog loved it but she cray. Awfully steep at times, could be tough for a wimpy canine friend. 

North And South Hancock, July 28th 2019

When you have a weekend off, and the weather is spectacular (although hot) you hike as much as possible.

Eric, Casey, Ellie and I had climbed Eisenhower the previous day, but that is such a great hike that all of us (minus Casey) were ready for more. Evan was available for some adventures, and we were thrilled to have him along. (read about Casey's bit adventure on her first 4K footer Here.

We parked at the almost empty Hancock Scenic Overlook around 8:00 or so, and enjoyed the peace and quiet of the early morning Kanc.
It's a bit of a trick getting to the trail, you go through a little gate, down a hill, and then you cross the road on the hairpin turn. Not the most confidence inspiring crossing. #death

At the gate (and a side: hasn't the Thoreau Bridge been out since 2011?)

Anyway- we made it, and immediately were plunged into quiet, on the very flat/gradual and scenic trail.

How it begins, flat flat

It is a LONG way on this trail before you get to anything intense, but that's the kind of hike that I enjoy. Tons of walking in the woods, pretty things to see, then BOOM, mountain.

And honestly, that is exactly how this trail behaves.
You go along for a bit, and it is bone flat.
Then, maybe it gets a little greener and *perhaps* the trail goes up a bit.
(FYI: there is a standard route. Hancock Notch Trail, to Cedar Brook Trail, to Hancock Loop, to either peak.)

Ever so slight uphill

So you wander along, walking and talking and loving life and then *mayyyyybe* you hit the beginning of a little something...

The beginning of a little something.....

And then, on command, the trail splits. The fork in the road takes you right, for the final half mile to South Hancock.
AND IT GOES UP, LIKE A BEAST.

Their feet are at my head, and I am standing right next to Evan. 

Fortunately, this intensity only lasts half a mile. Totally manageable, and in a non scary way. We had to use hands in places, but I would not call it a scramble.
But dudes? If you weren't in great shape this could really suck. Just FYI.

And then, POP, you reach the end of the fierce incline and are rewarded with a terrific view at a tiny scenic overlook.

Hazy

The walk between peaks is lovely, and straightforward. It's about 1.4 miles, and is really a terrific stretch of trail. I forgot to take any pics....

From North Hancock, you get a different view.

A view of us!!! Haha.

Another hiker wandered by, and expressed his pretty severe disappointment in the quality/quantity of views in relation to the miles put in. I must disagree, but it certainly is a subjective situation. Really, only a mile total was hard (0.5 up, and down) and the rest was just an easy woods walk. And I enjoyed the views- you can see a lot!

Happy Hikers

Based on my research we did the loop counter clockwise, hitting the South peak first.

I would certainly recommend doing it this way. Both directions have their fiddly issues- it is rocky and climbey getting to South peak, and the trail is all small rocks and slidey crap coming down from North. We all agreed, we would prefer to climb up big stones and come down pebbles.

Heading down on little death pebbles

We did manage fine. Nobody fell. Evan was glad that there was no snow....

Yes, Steep. 

Of course, once one returns to "flat" land, it is still a pretty long walk to get back. (about 3.5 miles)
That was ok. We chatted. Talked about the big fish that Evan catches. We snacked. Ran out of water for the first time ever. Ellie almost got beat up by a dog the size of a guinea pig.
And the kids took a moment to relax and recharge in one of the pretty streams.

Evan went for it

And so did Elle

By the time we returned to the car, the Kanc was full blown weekend chaos.
We tried to block out the noise and enjoy some cold pizza, but (honestly) it was almost too loud to talk over! Typical.... #getoffmylawn

We made it!!!

So another couple peaks checked off (this makes #22 and #23 for Eric and me) and another really fun, rewarding hike on a gorgeous day. Just can't beat the weather we are getting this year!!!!
And again, so happy have Evan join us. He got up at 3AM to make it for this adventure, and we were so glad to have him join!

But I think they were a little tired!!!

Strava data: (we take this with a grain of salt) 
-elevation climbed: 2,792
-miles covered: 9.5
-elapsed time: 5:35 (we never shut off our watches- so this includes all down time)

Difficulty: Difficult. Why? Because it is a long day. And you really need to be reasonably fit to handle the climb up- no matter which peak you choose to climb first (I suggest South) 
BUT: The trail at ANY point until the final half mile is easy. Plenty of people just walk the trail, see the river, head home. 

Views: Small outlooks on both peaks with lovely views. 

Bugs: Horse flies, horse flies... But maybe slightly fewer today?

Dog friendly trail? Yes, as long as your dog can handle hours on the trail. 

Training for Marine Corps Marathon week 7: the one before the zero week

So week 7 of training was not super high mileage, but actually contained (just a few) decent runs.

Speed work early week with more 800's- and things felt good. If you look at my pace for 800's one would never think that I could run a 3:30 marathon, but apparently I just lack a really fast gear.
The weather was much cooler, and things went well.

I ran bitch hill on Tuesday, and it was pleasant.

16 miles on a hideously humid day on Thursday. I never felt great- this was a tough run in really disgusting conditions. I am uncertain if I have ever been as sweaty before. I felt pretty lousy during the last mile, despite chugging 1.5 liters of water during the run, and downing 3 electrolyte Humas and several salt pills. I felt quite good as soon as I finished, which is always a sign that I did not actually over exert, but simply suffered splendidly.

22 miles of rugged hiking over the weekend wrapped things up.

Rugged Rainy miles....

I plan to have a legit zero week this week. I planned this from the get go, as a good way to prep for the final stretch of training and work out any little physical issues. I keep feeling tempted to squeeze in a mid week run, but I plan to resist. If nothing else, my Boston training cycle this year taught me that rest is best sometimes!


Stats:
Miles: 30.1
Hottest day: 4,000 degrees and 56,987% humidity for my long run
Longest run: 16.0
Hiking miles- 22.0 holy crap

Training for Marine Corps Marathon Week 6: the one with the hot weather

So week 6 started off with 2 days where the temps were well into the 90's.
I just can't handle it....

So, Wednesday (with the weather still completely repulsive, but less deadly) I headed out to start week #6.

On this particular day, my lower legs still felt just horrible. Such a mess! Luckily- this was the end of the crap (at least for this week.)
Why?
-maybe because I committed to glute activation and stretching pre-run
-maybe because my legs just decided to get their shit together
-other, who knows what

So on Wednesday I did some unstructured speed work- because nothing felt worse than running easily.

I don't plan to post anything other than unattractive pics

Thursday was bitch hill. No real wildlife this week, but I did have to stop to help someone get their stubborn horse on their trailer.

Saturday was a 15 miler- probably the best long run of this cycle, even though it was pretty damn hot (about 84-80 during the run)
Why?
-run done on relatively rested legs
-run done on Saturday afternoon, instead of a random Thursday after crazy work
-fitness increasing?

Sunday was an easy few miles- the legs still felt good but I was just spent. Long run plus horse show plus not eating enough had me feeling crummy.

Overall, a solid week. Not high mileage but I'm still showing up. Next week will be more of the same, with a MAJOR cut back the following week. Also, more hiking miles next weekend (I'm basically on an every other weekend hiking schedule this summer-which is pretty awesome.)

Stats:
Miles: 32.4
Hottest day: Hottest run was 86 on Monday. Gross. 
Longest run: 15.0
Hiking miles- Off week :-(