Sunday, January 5, 2014

Doublehead Ski Trail

The Doublehead ski trail was cut by the CCC (Civilian Conservation Corps) in the 1930's. It is located on North Doublehead Mt. in Jackson, NH, and can be accessed by hiking the ski trail itself or by taking the Old Path that also leads to the summit. I recommend hiking the ski trail because it is easier and also allows you to assess the conditions while heading up. From the parking area to the summit is about 1.7 miles. I choose to summit and ski down to the main drainage near where the old path intersects the trail, and then repeat that section three times. The skiing below this was also nice but more narrow with less descent. I was here on a Sunday following 6" of cold dry snow that fell the Thursday before and a weekend of it getting skied out, and the conditions were still amazing. Especially the middle section of trail that goes from the main ridge of North Doublehead down to the drainage area. This is a great easily accessible ski tour that shouldn't be missed when the conditions are right.



The lower section of the trail 
heading up



Heading down
Summit and first descent


Doublehead Cabin.
Located at the summit.
Available to rent.
Camelbak Zoid.
Perfect day pack for a ski like this.
Just enough room for skins and water.







Mt. Washington 

Wednesday, January 1, 2014

Bringing in the New Year at Blackstrap Hill Preserve



The Blackstrap Hill Community Forest and Preserve consists of two separate properties totaling nearly 520 acres, making it the largest block of contiguous protected open space in Falmouth. I suspect it would be a great place for a trail run. And after spending a few hours there today I know it is an excellent place for a snowshoe run. Happy New Years!