Stinson Mountain

January 20, 2014.  Stinson Mountain Trail, Snowmobile Trail

I wasn't going to hike.   I was tired, sore, and it was snowing.  Then I made it up Lower Doetown Road and said, I came this far, so I had to hike.  And I was glad I did.  Yeah, there was no view, but the snow on the trees and the snow coming down made it a magical trip.  I have seen Stinson described as gentle.  I would agree with that statement, except I am getting over a bad cold.  I took lots of breaks.  2 days in a row in recovery mode is hard.  Granted, I did not summit yesterday, but still it was hiking in the Whites.  Stinson has a very nice trail.  I am sure that it is nice in the summer too, but the snow makes it extra special.

You really do not need snowshoes, but I like the stability they give.  (This is based on yesterday's hike.  It will dramatically change after tomorrow.)  Plus there were some icy sections and that grip of the crampons was appreciated.  There was snow falling as I hiked, but it did not amount to much.  It was pretty and I enjoyed the peace that a snowy hike can give.

As nice and snowy as it was, there was some ice that had to be dealt with.  What was a fluffy white snow thinned out to a gossamer veil over thick solid ice.  I made friends with a few trees.  After a few, "are we there yet," I made it to the top.  I couldn't tell by the view, there was none.  But there are the remains of a fire tower.  And there were two snowmobilers.  You do have to share parts of the trail with snowmobiles, but one took my picture, so I cannot complain.

52, but no view.  3rd in row.  I see a pattern.

Overall wonderful day in the woods.  I am lucky to have another day off today, so have to choose XC in Weston or hikingWachusett or Blue Hills.  But gotta get it done early.  Blizzard coming.

Best view of the hike.