The East Trail (yellow markers) that originates near New Russia had not been hiked since 1/30. Snow cover was minimal with hidden ice everywhere. We started in snowshoes and debated whether to change to crampons, but decided to remain with snowshoes hoping the snow depths would increase with elevation. Bare-booting would have been an accident waiting to happen. There were several severe ice flows that we had to detour around. The leaf cover and duff (absent of any snow) of the adjacent forest was nearly as dangerous as the ice. The snow depth did not increase until just before the first overlook (1.7 miles, 1700 feet) before Blueberry Cobbles. We took the short-cut trail that bypasses Blueberry Cobbles. The snow remained light and fluffy through this section unaffected by the low angle of the winter sun and the shadow of Blueberry Cobbles. Just after re-connecting with the main trail in Mason Notch we carefully ascended two very challenging and dangerous ice chutes that were even more precarious on the descent. Crossing over the top of Mason Mountain, the snow started to degrade in the warm sun and cover faded as we scrambled up the last, steep .7 mile to the treeless summit. We decided to ascend this exposed section without our snowshoes. We had 10-point crampons if we needed them, but we took our time carefully selecting foot placement and achieved the summit without further mechanical assistance. After spending a glorious hour in bright, sunny skies and 40-degree temperatures, we took our time locating cairns and paint blazes descending the rocky dome. We returned to our snowshoes and kept them on for the rest of the descent.
We started and finished in snowshoes in very minimal snow cover. Crampons would have been an appropriate choice as well, but carrying the snowshoe weight was less desirable than the weight of the crampons. Layers were vital to maintaining body temperature as we both ended up in a single layer as the day progressed. Water was essential to replace fluid loss. I carried nearly 2 liters and ran out with about 2 miles left on the descent. Trekking poles were absolutely necessary for balance, agility and securing foot position on the icy terrain. A camera was also necessary to capture the spectacular scenery of the ascent and the 360-degree panorama of the summit.
Although the summit elevation (3060') seems small (in comparison to the major surrounding peaks (Giant, Rocky Peak and Rocky Peak Ridge), Bald Peak is a worthy challenge in any season. The RT mileage is about 8 miles with a 2400-foot vertical ascent – more than some High Peaks. The final approach over steep, rocky slabs is exhilarating and the summit is magnificent. I shared the day with a wonderful hiking partner and trusted friend, Barb Blum. We saw no other hikers the entire day thoroughly enjoying each other's company, the great weather and this awesome summit.
Pete Hogan
We started and finished in snowshoes in very minimal snow cover. Crampons would have been an appropriate choice as well, but carrying the snowshoe weight was less desirable than the weight of the crampons. Layers were vital to maintaining body temperature as we both ended up in a single layer as the day progressed. Water was essential to replace fluid loss. I carried nearly 2 liters and ran out with about 2 miles left on the descent. Trekking poles were absolutely necessary for balance, agility and securing foot position on the icy terrain. A camera was also necessary to capture the spectacular scenery of the ascent and the 360-degree panorama of the summit.
Although the summit elevation (3060') seems small (in comparison to the major surrounding peaks (Giant, Rocky Peak and Rocky Peak Ridge), Bald Peak is a worthy challenge in any season. The RT mileage is about 8 miles with a 2400-foot vertical ascent – more than some High Peaks. The final approach over steep, rocky slabs is exhilarating and the summit is magnificent. I shared the day with a wonderful hiking partner and trusted friend, Barb Blum. We saw no other hikers the entire day thoroughly enjoying each other's company, the great weather and this awesome summit.
Pete Hogan