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"Greeley Ponds" |
I made sure I got a nice early start from the Greeley Ponds trail head just off of the
Kancamagus Highway. For a midweek hike with a 7 am start, I was not anticipating already seeing two cars in the parking lot, but it is always nice to see people out on the trail. The first 1.3 miles of Greeley Pond trail is relatively flat with a few bog bridges helping the average hiker from getting their boots wet before the trail begins to elevate. The trail crosses a small stream, which requires some rock hoping, but nothing too challenging. I decided to hike both peaks because there was only a mile between them. I also thought it would be a good idea to take the .3 mile detour to see the Greeley ponds at the end of my trip up the Osceola’s. The trail was very well marked and could easily be distinguished even though it was the heart of fall and most of the leaves have fallen.
Once you pass the junction between the pond and the mountain trail you begin working your way towards the top. The first half mile is relatively tame, but then you run into what seems like a never ending uphill battle. The trail does even off in some places to allow for a quick rest. There were also a couple of sections of ice on the trail where the sun was unable to hit because of the tree coverage. This also caused faint remnants of snow along the side of the trail, which added the winter feel.
"The Chimney"
Going down a steep section is always the worst. Going down “The Chimney” would have been a challenge on its own, but I decided to take the bypass, which made the going a little easier. I would strongly recommend taking
hiking poles which greatly reduce the amount of stress on your knees because this is all downhill from the east peak. The only highlight from the decent would be seeing a
pileated woodpecker and some low flying fighter jets from the
Air National Guard.
The relatively quick walk over to Greeley Ponds takes no time at all. It is flat the entire way and offers excellent views of a back country pond. On my way to the pond a
ruffed grouse decided I was a potential threat and flew away which gave me a good scare.
You can find the Osceola hike on
AMC Map #3 Crawford Notch/Sandwich Range and it is listed in the
AMC White Mountain Guide under the Mt. Osceola Trail. Overall, I can say the Osceola’s were a fantastic and challenging hike. I could not have had a better day in November to hike these peaks!
"The view from Osceola"
As always you can check
AMC conditions for the latest report and/or call us here at Pinkham to see what we’re seeing out our windows and for the best trail advice we can give you!
We are available by phone at (603)466-2721 every day from 6:30 AM to 10:00 PM or by email at amcpinkhaminfo@outdoors.org. To make reservations at
AMC Lodges and Huts, please call (603)466-2727 available Monday through Saturday 9am-5pm.
Chase
AMC Backcountry Information Specialist