Congratulations once again to the winners of Saturday's raffle. This morning, I made a donation to GirlVentures in the amount of $1141.00 (the amount of money raised from the raffle). Many thanks to everyone who donated prizes or bought tickets!
I'm past due posting the trip report from our last hike...I'll take care of that now. Later this evening, I'll post the previously-promised FAQ.
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Last Thursday, the girls and I brought our dog on his last mountain hike of 2012. Our border terrier, Max, loves to hike, but he's not a fan of deep snow, frigid temperatures, or ice. The White Mountains will soon be covered in all of the above, so this was Max's last chance to experience "views from the top" until we return from the Camino in spring 2013.
Trail and mountains: Crawford-Ridgepole Trail over Doublehead Mountain, Squam Mountain, and Mt. Percival. Out-and-back, about 9 miles. Not sure of the total elevation gain...just under 3000 feet, perhaps.
The trail quickly rises. Much of the elevation is gained right off the bat.
Fun ledges...
Once the initial climb is conquered, the trail meanders through the woods...
...goes over the (viewless) summit of Doublehead, and reaches the intersection with Doublehead Trail.
We took a break at this juncture. Sage noted our location on the map before we continued on our way...
Onward, to Mt. Squam...
View from the ridge...
Max looking stately...
Up...
More ridge views...
Frozen pond....
Approaching Squam's summit...
From Squam to Percival, it was more of the same...woods, boulders, and a few ledges.
Percival's summit is gorgeous. Fantastic views of the Squam Lake area.
Sage by the summit cairn...
Alex on the summit...
This was a pleasant excursion -- it was the last one that didn't include microspikes, balaclavas, and snowshoes. From December 22 on, it's winter 4K time. The girls and I will hike winter 4Ks until we leave for Spain; ascending the 4000-Footers in the snow, ice, and frigid temps will keep us in shape and, hopefully, make our first couple of Camino days feel relatively simple.
The girls will miss Max's company during the winter hikes (and the Camino). However, it's best if we leave him at home. Max has made his dislike for snow obvious, and we've no desire to torture him. :)
Next up, later today....those FAQ.
