Lowe's Bald Spot

I had a good time.  JT led us up to Lowe's Bald Spot, crossing the Auto Road (I was tempted to relieve some vehicles of their tire air pressure).  It was a hot day but we had a good breeze as we neared the top.  Seemed the group became two with 4 of the nine trekking at a good clip, while the other five (myself included) kept a slower pace.  Upon returning to JT's place, five of us ventured a couple hundred yards behind his house to an abandoned reservoir which used to supply the town of North Conway with water.  After a brief assessment, I dove in.  The others followed closely.  About 12 inches below the surface it was really chilly but very refreshing.

After a tasty potluck/cookout and a jaunt to Cold Stone Creamery, I settled in my tent in JT's backyard.  I heard thunder rumbling in the distance.  About 20 minutes later a nice summer thunderstorm passed over.  I was glad I had tightened the fly and staked the tent.  One gust nearly flattened my tent but it rebounded nicely.  Pretty heavy rain for about 20 minutes gave me a good test for next weeks three nights in Acadia Nat'l Park where my partner and I will camp.

Thanks JT for a really good time.  I left at about 7:00 a.m., stopped at a diner in Plymouth for breakfast, got home in time to set my tent out in the sun to dry, and had time for a short nap before a mens support group which I led at 3:00.  I look forward to a report from the second day of hiking.  sAm 

This hike will follow the historic “Old Jackson Road”, once used as the primary route from the mountains to the seacoast, now provides access to the Great Gulf and Madison Gulf areas. The scheduled hike will follow the road to its end at the Mt Washington Auto Road, at this point begins the Madison Gulf Trail. This hiking experience is rated in the moderate category, reason being due to some areas being steep. There are no dangerous ledge crossings or drop offs but distance combined with ups and downs would stress some beginner hikers. There are few seasonal brook crossings.  Other than the destination this trail does NOT break tree line. Standard hiking gear is always recommended, there are NOT filtered water sources on this trail please plan accordingly.

Pets – This trail is very pet friendly. Please note this trail is a primary route to the Great Gulf and Madison Gulf, at times can be busy with hikers. Pets should be people and pet friendly.  

If you intend to bring a pet please contact me via email.

Distance (AMC Guide)

Old Jackson Road (starting at PNVC – elev. 2032’) to Auto Road (elev. 2675’) 1.9 miles

Madison Gulf Trail (elev. 2675’) to Lowe’s Bald Spot (elev. 2901’) .4 miles

Total round trip 4.6 miles

Pinkham Notch Visitor Center (AKA Base Camp) has supplies and locker rooms. Located far from towns I would suggest you plan ahead regarding supplies or food. Prices can be steep! Bag lunch at the PNVC is approx $10.

Accommodations – PNVC does have lodging @ Joe Dodge Lodge – www.outdoors.org  for reservations and information.

Many camp grounds, motels, condos located on both North and South end of route 16.

BACK YARD CAMPING! My home and yard are available for camping or floor space. Email me for more information, there is no cost for this. HOWEVER 3 cats do reside and tend to rule the roost.

Our meeting location is at the AMC Pinkham Notch Visitor Center (PNVC). This Visitor center is 5 mins south of Wildcat Ski Area. It is 20 mins north of the Route 302 and 16 Jct. in Glen (also home to Storyland).  Meeting time is 10 am.  We will gather at the four (4) picnic tables located on the front lawn area. Bathrooms are located through out the complex area.