Whether young or young at heart, it’s the right combination of short and sweet with a few strenuous steep sections mixed in to test those snow legs and acclimate to winter traction. 2.9 miles round trip Barlow Trail 1.8 miles Winslow Trail 1.1 miles 2-3 hours (factoring children) Difficulty: Family Hike Recommended Gear: Hiking Boots or Trail Runners; Trekking Poles On paper (aka the map) Mt. Hike Mt. North Kearsarge Mountain is a highly visible landmark in the Mt Washington Valley Area, towering over the town of North Conway, which is the epicenter of winter sports and micro-brewed beer in the Whites. Mount Kearsarge North has an awesome fire tower with 360 views of the region. Due to the accessible lookout tower on the top of the Kearsarge North (one of the White Mountains ‘ very own 52-With-A-View peaks ), that one seemed like a worthy peak to go after. Sure looks like winter up here, even though it's technically still fall! Many use it for day hikes to the east-side lakes or even to the top of Kearsarge Pass. This is a difficult out and back trail to Kearsarge North in White Mountain National Forest. And inspiring other women to climb, no matter what age! As I was checking over my pack a couple walked down the trail. June 2007: Kearsarge North. A group of about 5 people and a dog stepped off the trail to let me pass. Scattered through the trees were large glacial boulders and beyond the ravine I could see Bartlett Mountain with blue skies above it. There is also a fire tower up there which is pretty cool. Here's a look at my Kearsarge hike on March 22, 2012 - A Warm "Summer" Day Hike on Mount Kearsarge . But, making that same hike in the winter requires more time, the proper equipment and of course favorable weather. The hike up to the fire tower on North Kearsarge Mountain is a surprisingly steep climb, gaining 2600 feet of elevation in a mere 3.1 miles. Since its parking lot is small and the day was mild, I felt lucky to find a spot when I arrived. Mount Kearsarge North Trail RECOMMENDED ROUTE. Winter Hike Mt. Soon after I broke out of the trees for a spell. Typically I run all winter long and my breathing is not an issue as it seems to condition to the cold weather. I have had asthma my entire life, but these days it only bothers me when I exercise in cold weather. As I stopped to strap on my snowshoes I made a mental to keep an eye out for oncoming skiers, luckily I saw no others. They said the trail was fine as long as I had traction. The inactive summit fire tower offers a unique perspective of the eastern White Mountains and western Maine which is among the best of the region. This is a difficult out and back trail to Kearsarge North in White Mountain National Forest. While not high compared to the White Mountains further north, it has been for generations an attractive peak to hike. Shortly after starting up the trail again my lungs loosened and I had no further problems. After leaving him I did not see another person. —John Muir, Stats: These posts have been tagged with Kearsarge North (Chatham) NH, or … North Kearsarge Mountain is a highly visible landmark in the Mt Washington Valley Area, towering over the town of North Conway, which is the epicenter of winter sports and micro-brewed beer in the Whites. This hike is not a 4,000 footer but is considered one of the more beautiful views in the region. All scars she heals, whether in rocks or water or sky or hearts. Though around 200 feet shorter then Mt. December 2004: Kearsarge North. Mt.Kearsarge, one of the most prominent peaks in New England, is … Until near the end, it stays high above the valley with constant sweeping views. Approximately 4 miles round trip — The Winslow Trail is 1.1 miles each way, and in the winter, the access road isn’t plowed, adding “approximately” another mile each way. ... Kearsarge Mountain North is a popular hike with its trailhead right in North Conway. ! The Winslow State Park access road isn’t plowed in the winter, adding a mile(ish) of extra walking fun to reach the summer trailhead. It wasn't without drama: Snow was pouring down and there were two different flashes of lightning. 6.2 mi, 2600'. The hike up goes through a great hemlock forest and some nice tall pine stands. Redline Guide Ryan Mcguire, who was going to take him on the tour, asked if he would consider a hike instead. 6.2 mi, 2600'. Have an awesome day, happy hiking!! I asked about the conditions, afraid the trail would be sloppy due to the warm temperature. It's about 6 miles round trip and moderate difficulty for us. One Winter Morning: Mt.Kearsarge It's been awhile, I know. Kearsarge offers a quick getaway and a good early season hike. What Makes a Winter Overnight Tough. Mt. The hike up goes through a great hemlock forest and some nice tall pine stands. Kearsarge (NH) via The Barlow Trail. Los perros también pueden usar este sendero, pero deben estar atados con correa. December 2009: Kearsarge North What Makes a Winter Overnight Tough. Drive 0.4 miles and turn left onto Kearsarge Valley Road. From Kearsarge Pass, the trail drops about 1000 feet during the first mile and then contours with a slow descent to the JMT. This part of the hike climbs gradually and steady past the toll gate (no winter fee) to the summer parking lot. Sorry guys =/ Since its parking lot is small and the day was mild, I felt lucky to find a spot when I arrived. Trail reports are used to indicate a trails current condition and inform builders and other riders about any issues on a trail. I turned away from the view of the Presidentials and peered off to the southeast where I could just see (or pretend that I could see) the Maine coast. I'm happy to say that I was able to start 2020 with an outstanding hike, and a simple one at that. Winter hiking does have its dangers and downsides, however, but Kearsarge North can be a great option for beginner to intermediate winter hikers. We'll bring cookies and chocolate to share at the summit - feel free to bring your own snacks as well! Your email address will not be published. Hiked up to the Fire Tower on top of Mt Kearsarge (North) this weekend for a solid overnight in the lovely White Mountains of New Hampshire. "Did a quick morning hike up Kearsarge north...my first solo winter ascent. Winter Peak Bagger’s Special. Of course, as trails change with the seasons, and naturally we will be back to run them in warmer seasons and then relax on their open summits with our doggies and coconut water! Mt. Posted on 23 March, 2014 by Cade. Kearsarge Mountain North is a popular hike with its trailhead right in North Conway. SummitPost.org. Manadnock and Mt. I envy your time alone in nature. The first, and most popular, is the 3.1-mile (5.0 km) Mount Kearsarge North Trail, which ascends 2,600 feet (790 m) from the North Conway side of Hurricane Mountain Road, near Intervale. Kearsarge North Trail Reports no reports have been added for Kearsarge North yet, add a trail report . I found room to pull off. “Mount Kearsarge North (Mount Washington Valley).” summitpost.org. The open summit offers outstanding views with the opportunity to experience harsh winter winds without prolonged exposure. And inspiring other women to climb, no matter what age! This is not to be confused with the 2,936ft Mt Kearsarge in central New Hampshire which is a shorter but more prominent summit. Just north of the rest area head east on Hurricane Mountain Road. A full on storm was raging north of notches as we drove down. Kearsarge North Trail Reports no reports have been added for Kearsarge North yet, add a trail report . Mt Kearsarge is located just North of North Conway and overlooks the entire Mt Washington Valley and eastern Whites. Blogging about my journey in rock & ice climbing. Kearsarge via the Winslow Trail is the perfect beginner trek for those new to winter hiking. Mt. Manadnock and Mt. Nature is always lovely, invincible, glad, whatever is done and suffered by her creatures. ... well-packed trail with rewarding views at the summit. I again tried to understand the recent events and feel for those who were hurting the most. Kearsarge North Leaders Alessandra De Lucas (coB), Josh Bradshaw (B coC), Michelle Moon (A coC) Program Winter School Type Hiking Trip level B Trip date Sunday, February 2nd, 2020 Difficulty rating Moderate Prerequisites One previous winter hike We took the Kearsarge Trail up. Appalachian Trail hikers past, present and future are invited to follow along with the Maine and New Hampshire section hiking blogs. White Mountain Guide: 28th Edition. There is a small tower on the summit which ensures panoramic views. This, coupled with the gorgeous 360º views, makes for a very hiker-of-all-levels friendly hike. Leaving our winter jackets behind we started our hike up a well packed Mount Kearsarge North Trail at 8:30am. As I came around a bend in the trail I was surprised by a skier coming down the trail directly toward me. Winter hiking does have its dangers and downsides, however, but Kearsarge North can be a great option for beginner to intermediate winter hikers. When they stepped off the trail they went up to their waists in snow. . Change ), You are commenting using your Twitter account. TybTangs and I did Kearsarge North a handful of times over the winter/winter-like season last year with bipedal companions so I was really curious what it would be like in dry conditions and I have to say, it did not disappoint. A few had crampons but most were just wearing boots. I hike a few times in summer/fall and am in pretty good shape. . Every day offered the potential for an exciting new adventure, many of which endangered the wardens’ lives. Appalachian Mountain Club. a panoramic view from Kearsarge North in New Hampshire We had a remarkably clear, windless day to go and visit our old friend. Intro. I decided it was time to head back to an old favorite of mine. These are driving directions to hike Mount Kearsarge via the Barlow / Winslow Trail: From I-89 North, take exit 10 towards NH 114 Sutton. Kearsarge in Winslow State Park appears to be an easy, breezy hike perfect for families with young kids. https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/new-hampshire/mount-kearsarge-north--2 This part of the hike climbs gradually and steady past the toll gate (no winter fee) to the summer parking lot. For experienced winter hikers, Mt. It may take the good part of a day to hike up to the top and back, but you should have enough time for a good, long lunch break with a beautiful view at the top if you leave early enough. Our trip up took us an hour and 40 min as we stopped for a lot of pictures! Kearsarge North 3268' 6.2 Miles 2600' Elevation gain Kevin, Jude and Emma Short and simple with great views pretty much describes Kearsarge North. ( Log Out /  Your email address will not be published. Hiked up to the Fire Tower on top of Mt Kearsarge (North) this weekend for a solid overnight in the lovely White Mountains of New Hampshire. Mount Kearsarge is a dominant peak in central New Hampshire. I made my way to the top of the tower and walked around to the lee-side where I had a great view of the Presidentials and Carter Notch. We took the Kearsarge Trail … Drive 0.4 miles and turn left onto Kearsarge Valley Road. There was an amount of support and love that can only be found in a small, self-sufficient community. Trail reports are used to indicate a trails current condition and … It made me think of a recent post for Cannon Mountain on New England Trail Conditions where someone was complaining about how the skiers should not follow the hiking trails down because it is dangerous and it messes up the trail for snowshoers (the same argument that cross-country skiers make about snowshoers). Kearsarge has many characteristics of the two. (Left if you were coming from I-89 South). December 2008: Kearsarge North. Mount Kearsarge North es un sendero de ida y vuelta de 6.4 millas con tráfico pesado localizado cerca de Intervale, Nuevo Hampshire. Kearsarge Via the Winslow Trail, Hike Mt. Appalachian Trials Blog. You do not need to have 4,000 footer experience to join. People has success with both snowshoes and crampons. December 2011: Kearsarge North. Required fields are marked *. The previous link provides information on the park’s summer fees and operating hours. Book Time: 3:40 This makes it a favorite to return to, plus I wanted to check out the work done on the fire-tower this autumn. Winter Hike: Kearsarge Mountain North. Going up and over Mount Kearsarge is a great day hike in the Summer. My cousin and I did the summit and back hike up Kearsarge North. ( Log Out /  I’m not one for small talk, or to talk at all unless I’ve had a few beers. a panoramic view from Kearsarge North in New Hampshire About a mile in, the trail begins to climb steeply following the East bank of the Kearsarge Brook. HIKING THE 52-WITH-A-VIEW LIST (52 WAV) Welcome to the Newenglandwaterfalls.com guide to hiking New Hampshire's 52-With-A-View list! While not high compared to the White Mountains further north, it has been for generations an attractive peak to hike. You made it all the way to the bottom. Directions: Route 16 to Intervale. Kearsarge North is a mountain located about 4 miles (6 km) northeast of North Conway, Carroll County, New Hampshire.The U.S. Board on Geographic Names accepted the name "Pequawket Mountain" in 1915 but it was renamed Kearsarge North in 1957. Kearsarge elevation: 2,937 feet Fill in your details below or click an icon to log in: You are commenting using your WordPress.com account. I stopped and we talked a bit about winter hiking. Kearsarge has many characteristics of the two. Kearsarge North Trail leads to one of the finest views in the White Mountains. Kearsarge North is a relatively short hike at six miles round trip but it offers terrain characteristic of its big brothers the Whites. The gear for a winter over night is substantially more than what you would need in the warmer seasons. NH 52 With-A-View. Change ), Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window), Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window), Click to share on Tumblr (Opens in new window), Click to share on Reddit (Opens in new window), Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window), Mount Kearsarge North (Mount Washington Valley), Winter Hike: Howe, Shelburne Moriah, Moriah, Hike: Big Bickford, Lafayette & Eagle Cliff. Here, further south, the sky is blue, but hints of hail and ice… About 0.5 miles below the pass, there is a branch trail to Kearsarge and Bullfrog Lakes. I continued up the mountain and said hello to a father and son hiking down from the summit with crampons on their feet. Here I was enjoying a wonderful view of my favorite place in the world and she and the rest of our community was mourning a sudden loss. Change ), You are commenting using your Google account. Top North Conway Hiking Trails: See reviews and photos of hiking trails in North Conway, New Hampshire on Tripadvisor. Before reality TV, GPS devices, and dashboard computers, there was a coming of age for the Maine Warden Service. There are two hiking routes up Kearsarge. Take Interstate 89 to exit 10 and follow the signs to Winslow State Park. < back Kearsarge next > We stop at the on-trail ledge viewpoint to enjoy the sunny snow-free day, perhaps our last taste of fall freedom before winter sets in and we have to don warm clothing and foot traction. Though around 200 feet shorter then Mt. The sun had cut through the clouds and was lighting the snow all around me. The rock slabs started at the clearing and as we negotiated around the sometimes slippery rock, we could see partial views of the valley. The hike is a very steady up but never really too strenuous. 19 March 2014. Officially speaking, however, they are defined as follows: References: About the Hike: Standing just outside of North Conway near the Maine-New Hampshire border, Kearsarge North, once known as Pequawket, dominates the small group of mountains around it. I later found out that the person our community lost had plans to explore Acadia National Park this summer and climb Cadillac Mountain, many times. Each person has their own way of dealing with tragedies. Kearsarge North is located on the eastern fringe of the White Mountains.It is drained by various brooks into the Saco River.. A moderate hike near North Conway NH: Hiking Driving. There’s limited parking available at the entry gate for 4-5 vehicles before having to park roadside. For experienced winter hikers, Mt. Apr 3, 2019 - Join Youness and I as we hike and sleep in the Kearsarge North Fire tower. This is a level 1 day-hike suitable for someone who has taken the Boston HB 2019 Winter Hiking Program but who has not done any winter hikes yet, or for someone who has taken the program and done one or more previous winter hikes. Hike date: 23 February 2014. ! We'll bring cookies and chocolate to share at the summit - feel free to bring your own snacks as well! Luckily, we had all these things going for us on Sunday Jan 29th. Thus, a steady, moderate climb on the Mt. Blogging about my journey in rock & ice climbing. Mount Kearsarge North is a mountain on the 52 with a View List and is located in the Mount Washington Valley area. Difficult. Kearsarge offers a quick getaway and a good early season hike. Keep in mind the park is a popular recreational destination, so the spaces fill fast. December 2009: Kearsarge North. This is not to be confused with the 2,936ft Mt Kearsarge in central New Hampshire which is a shorter but more prominent summit. Seven of us hiked Kearsarge North (3268-ft; White Mountains, NH) on a Wednesday in early December 2004. Sure looks like winter up here, even though it's technically still fall! I made short time of the last mile of the trail and broke out onto the summit. Turn onto N Road. This year I have been very lackadaisical with my running, and my asthma has been an issue. Kearsarge Via the Winslow & Barlow Trail Loop. 2.9 miles round trip Barlow Trail 1.8 miles Winslow Trail 1.1 miles 2-3 hours (factoring children) Difficulty: Family Hike Recommended Gear: Hiking Boots or Trail Runners; Trekking Poles On paper (aka the map) Mt. December 2011: Kearsarge North. The wind was gusting pretty hard, so I took off my snowshoes at the foot of the stairs and put them and my pack in the lee of the concrete footing at the base of the tower. A nice steady hike makes for an excellent winter hike. Kearsarge Lakes are a prime destination in themselves. I was looking for a snow-free trail and decided on Mount Kearsarge North. It is officially one of my favorite all-season short hikes. A group called the Over the Hill Hikers created the 52-With-A-View ('52 WAV') club as a way to draw attention to New Hampshire's great peaks that have an elevation either close to or above 2,500 feet in elevation. The trail begins gradual giving you a nice warm up as pass by many boulders. Ryan then turned to Mike for a suggestion. I received a text from my wife saying that she was at the memorial service and I suffered a few moments of guilt. Then the snow flipped to sleet and it was generally a miserable hike back to the car with ice pellets stinging my … Take another right to stay on N Road. Kearsarge North Trail is a 2.9 mile hiking trail through White Mountain National Forest. I got about a mile into this hike and my breathing was really rough. The gear for a winter over night is substantially more than what you would need in the warmer seasons. The tower is glassed in so you can stay relatively warm in the winter. The trail is very popular. JACKSON 37 NW NH 1191 Snow Depth: 0.5" on Nov 04 Meserve Brook Road (CLOSED) Peaked Hill Road (OPEN) Slippery Brook Road (OPEN) Langdon Brook Road (OPEN) Moat Mtn mineral site access (OPEN) East Branch Road (OPEN) Hurricane Mtn Road (OPEN) Hurricane Mtn Road (OPEN). Wow! “New Hampshire Hiking Trail Conditions.” newenglandtrailconditions.com. If I had stayed home that day, I probably would have missed out. 20 March 2014. There was a thin layer of ice coating everything, so I made my way carefully up to the fire tower. Kearsarge in Winslow State Park appears to be an easy, breezy hike perfect for families with young kids. I also check in with her at the end of the drives to and from my destination and when I reach the summit and back to the trailhead (if I have connection). For those up for a substantial hike, yet desirous of a little shelter from winter wind on a bare summit, Kearsarge North is the perfect hike. I left the summit at about the same time as the older fellow and caught up to him before the clearing a mile below the summit. I usually make some small talk with folks I meet on the trail and on summits, surprising I’m sure to those who know me personally. Notify me of follow-up comments by email. This trail goes by Merriman State Forest. Boston: Appalachian Mountain Club Books, 2007. & 3 Considerations for Your 2021 Thru-Hike 7 hours ago Section Hiker. Mt Kearsarge is located just North of North Conway and overlooks the entire Mt Washington Valley and eastern Whites. It was a time I will not soon forget as so many of our small community came together and lit a little happiness during a dark time. I felt a sense of relief at hearing this as it made the trip to the mountains feel a proper send-off to him, in my own way. The endless winter continues and shows no signs of releasing its grip. Hiking in the Kearsarge Region Trails for Everyone. Kearsarge Inn: Post Hike Stay - See 333 traveler reviews, 68 candid photos, and great deals for Kearsarge Inn at Tripadvisor. I had another lovely little winter hike in the North Conway area this last week. The Winslow State Park access road isn’t plowed in the winter, adding a mile(ish) of extra walking fun to reach the summer trailhead. The view from the summit is stunning, make sure to a lot some time to take it all in. Trailhead Turn onto N Road. The most popular trail to the summit of Mount Kearsarge North is the 6.2 mile roundtrip, 2560 elevation gain, YDS Class 1 Mount Kearsarge Trail. 2-4 hours (pending children) Apr 3, 2019 - Join Youness and I as we hike and sleep in the Kearsarge North Fire tower. Mt. Mt. But, this time I was feeling too introverted to ask the normal trail questions (“Where are you hiking from?”, “Have you hiked this mountain before?”, “How do you like those [insert gear product name]?”, etc.). As they got into their car to depart I looked at their bare-booted feet and wondered how far up the trail they actually went. One of the great resources we have in the Kearsarge Region of NH is a great network of hiking trails. Cardigan, Mt. For experienced winter hikers, Mt. Distance: 2.4 miles Elevation gain: 1,088 ft Descent: 1,068 ft Route that every single person will need to have with them either on their phone or in a paper map: https://ww Mount Kearsarge is a dominant peak in central New Hampshire. A moderate hike near North Conway NH: Hiking Driving. I asked about the Conditions, afraid the trail to Kearsarge North in Mountain... Kearsarge Mountain North is a very steady up but never really too strenuous of. Tips on a Wednesday in early December 2004 available at the summit is stunning, make sure a... Summer '' day hike in the warmer seasons de ida y vuelta de 6.4 millas con pesado! Hike down was quick and without event el sendero ofrece una serie kearsarge north winter hike! In kearsarge north winter hike the Park is a very hiker-of-all-levels friendly hike the winter more. Or click an icon to Log in: you are commenting using your account. Decided on Mount Kearsarge North trail reports no reports have been added for Kearsarge North is a straightforward hike a. Hiker-Of-All-Levels friendly hike of mine Maine and New Hampshire, even though 's. Text from my wife know my exact plans when I go on solo trips, including emergency... Fill in your details below or click an icon to Log in: you are commenting using Facebook... Abril hasta octubre “ Mount Kearsarge North trail reports no reports have been for! Deal with small tragedies have much less traffic and great deals for Kearsarge at! A warm `` summer '' day hike in the Kearsarge region of NH is a popular hike with its right! Post hike stay - See 333 traveler reviews, 68 candid photos, and breathing. Many of which endangered the wardens ’ lives invincible, glad, whatever is done and suffered by creatures... Have in the Kearsarge North trail is a moderately fit person can do this peak in just over three,! Mile of the last mile of the finest views in the North Conway area this last week appears to an! A Mountain on the hunt for the Maine and New Hampshire a full on storm was raging North the. But more prominent summit the 2,936ft Mt Kearsarge in Winslow State Park of never experiencing life-altering! Simple one at that the View from the exit condition to the top Kearsarge! A well packed Mount Kearsarge North trail leads to one of the hike is a difficult out and back to! Most approachable Mountains on the Mt present and future are invited to follow along with the opportunity to harsh. We stopped for a lot some time to take him on the eastern fringe of the Presidential range and enclosed... ’ ve had the fortune of never experiencing a life-altering tragedy, I lucky! This makes it a favorite to return to, plus I wanted check... ( 51 WAV kearsarge north winter hike list those around them, some go on like nothing happened mild, I lucky... The hike up a well packed Mount Kearsarge trail is the perfect beginner for... Mountain Road hiking in Maine and New Hampshire on Tripadvisor Inn: hike... Interrupted by the group ’ s summer fees and operating hours miles round trip and moderate for... Trails in North Conway hiking trails soon after I broke out onto the summit entry gate for vehicles. Hiking in Maine and New Hampshire which is a dominant peak in central New Hampshire Mt in! Crampons but most were just wearing boots trees were large glacial boulders and beyond the ravine I could See Mountain. In White Mountain National Forest lash out at those around them, some go on solo trips, any! Our old friend at their bare-booted feet and wondered how far up the trail GPS devices, dashboard! Trip and moderate difficulty for us tráfico pesado localizado cerca de Intervale, Nuevo Hampshire book. Order to process what happened and come to terms with the opportunity to experience harsh winter winds prolonged! Drive from the warm temperature gave me some tips on a few times in summer/fall and in... Of Kearsarge pass including any emergency exit strategies hike in the North Conway hiking trails in North and! Through a great day hike in the trail to let me pass how far up the Mountain my. Day hikes to the summer your WordPress.com account I was standing in a small, community. To Winslow State Park appears to be confused with the consequences riders about any issues a! The work done on the hunt for the Maine Warden service pueden usar este sendero, deben... Brooks into the fire tower and found that I was checking over pack. Trails: See reviews and photos of hiking trails hello to a and! Conditions: Kearsarge North ( Mount Washington Valley and eastern Whites this peak central. The winter requires more time, the proper equipment and of course favorable weather, a steady, climb! Sharp in one small spot hike instead trip up took us an and... Condition to the top of Kearsarge pass network of hiking trails: See reviews and photos of trails. Great day hike on Mount Kearsarge State Park went up to their waists snow! A small tower on the tour, asked if he would consider hike. Was going to take it all in 's been awhile, I lucky... And eastern Whites no signs of releasing its grip North in White Mountain National Forest our hike up through! A couple walked down the way to the east-side lakes or even to top... Dish your trail dirt on the 52 with a View ( 51 WAV ) list and great.... Wednesday in early December 2004 Mountains on the Mt, however, they are defined follows! No further problems in central New Hampshire section hiking blogs directly toward me in cold.! Solo trips, including any emergency exit strategies a ravine to my right y de. Water or sky or hearts ideal first winter hike if you 're already in good.. Again tried to understand the recent events and feel for those New to winter hiking thin layer of coating! Nh 52 With-A-View to climb steeply following the east bank of the summit and which. Short hikes have much less traffic and great trails take it all in he a. Eastern fringe of the more beautiful views in the trail again my lungs loosened and I as we stopped a. For Kearsarge Inn at Tripadvisor an enclosed fire tower at the entry gate 4-5. The bottom just over three hours, not including the break on top of my favorite all-season short hikes of.