A very nice day and felt the need to get out and hike. The White Mountains are still covered in terrible ice during this low snow winter. Staying further south I decided to hit Mt Mondadnock. Having been up the Dublin trail a couple times in recent trips to Monadnock. I had heard from several sources the Pumpelly Trail was a fun and rewarding. It is a little longer than some others to the summit, sounds good. This trail is mild to start, but quickly ascends once you reach the nicely set steps. After a bit of work you are rewarded with some great views, in all directions.
The start/end of the Pumpelly TrailMild walk through the woods for a bit before the stairsThe stairs stare backUp I goThis continues for a while gaining elevation at a decent clipAhh, quick elevation equals faster viewsThe blue sky rests on the green treesThe granite slabs begin to dominate the sceneryLooking south/southeast, I believe, toward Pack Monadnock and North packA false summit(left) and the summit(center)Mini scrambles along the wayMore slabsChecking out one of the false summits I’ve already conqueredPanning north eastSticking to Pumpelly up and down today. I really enjoy trail signageLooking back over the slab trailThe summit awaits…along with dozens of folks, I’m certainCouple of ups and downs to along the wayAiming southA little closer to the summit. Can really see the ups/downs as they pop above the trees then duck down againRaptors soaring in the thermals/updraftsAnother trail sign along the ledge
Weathered signage beaten by the elementsOh? Do I see an empty summit? Not likely on this beautiful dayA bit of smoke in the northern direction. Found out later that was a brush fire in StoddardZoomed view of the brush fireMaking progress, fewer trees, more granite 🙂Folks thoroughly covered the summitCouple of photos and a Clif bar and I’m on my wayHad to navigate a bit beyond the summit toward the Dublin trail to find a semi quiet spot. Could still hear someone blasting music at the summitLooking down the Dublin/Marlboro TrailChecking out a bit westerly still from near the summitLarge boulder along the trail, looking toward Pack Monadnock and Temple/Holt PeakCrazy broken trees in a small col. Must have been a focused strong gustMini scramble againDublin Lake at the Pumpelly trailhead. Amazingly serene
