The Tripyramids Hike

Season's Greetings! We didn't want December to get away without a hike to a 4,000 footer so North and Middle Tripyramids looked like a good choice for winter conditions. We parked on the same side of the road where the Pine Pend Brook trail sign was posted.

We were the only vehicles there. Started up the trail at 7:45am and it was 26 degrees. Minimal snow from a trace to 2" or 3" on the ridge and summits. While there were a few glimpses of sunlight, things were mostly cloudy with very little wind.

The trail was firmly packed and easy to walk. The trail was pretty gradual for quite a awhile, lollygagging its way across some brooks.   After about one mile we put on our MicroSpikes as certain sections of trail had ice hidden beneath the snow. 

Brook crossings were rock hoppable. The rocks were snow covered and we were concerned about ice beneath. For the most part, ice on rocks was not an issue.

Then, shortly after crossing the wilderness boundary, things picked up quickly, as the the trail worked its way up a fairly steep ravine with rough, rocky footing, and a steady grunt up.

The temperature remained steady as we got on top of the ridge. The trees were covered with Hoar Frost that easily put us in the holiday spirit. The section of trail after the Scaur Ridge Trail junction is very interesting with steep slopes on both sides.

The ridge walk didn't last long before we were heading up again. Up and up we went on a steep, winding, ledgy climb with many icy ledge steps to negotiate. 

We reached the summit of North Tripyramid [4180'] and took a short break in the clouds. We didn't see any point in trying to find a better view since we were in the clouds. 

We then continued 0.8 miles to the Middle Tripyramid [4140'] that provided us another nice flat section of ridge walking. The hike to Middle Tripyramid was easier than we expected and we were still in the clouds.

Eating lunch at the summit we saw a brief glimpse of the Waterville Valley Ski Aea through a veil in the clouds. Time to head back. It always seems steeper on the way down than it does on the way up.

On the return, on the Scaur Ridge section, we saw glimpses of Mt. Carrigain to our right. The trail was firm enough to hold your boot in place but there was still ice. We took our time on the descent, as the trail was quity icy in the steep parts.

It seemed like a long way back to the road and the legs were feeling the 9.6 mile round trip. Back in the car at 3:45pm. Saw a few other hikers out today, two which used the same route we did. 

Winter has arrived! The six of us had a great day. Four of us checked off two more 4,000 footers.

The Tripyramids have three summits, but only the North and Middle peaks count as official 4000 footers.

There are multiple approaches to these peaks. We will be taking the Pend Bend Brook Trail. The Pine Bend trail leaves the Kancamagus highway 1 mile west of Sabbaday falls picnic area. Parts of the trail are steep with rough terrain.

This hike is considered strenuous. Hiking time is approximately 7.5 hours. Round trip distance is 9.6 miles with both summits. Elevation gain is 3,450 feet.

The Tripyramids consist of three peaks: North Tripyramid [4,140 ft.], Middle Tripyramid [4,110 ft.], and South Tripyramid [4,090 ft.].

This hike begins gentle with many brook crossings. After 2.1 miles and entering the Sandwich Range Wilderness, the real hiking begins with the trail becoming rough and steep as it ascends the north bank of the brook valley. At 3.2 miles we reach the Scaur Ridge trail where we attack the final steep, rough and rocky climb to the North Peak with several scrambles over icy ledges so MicroSpikes are recommended. We'll then tag the two peaks and return the way we came. 

This is an advanced hike with steep sections. This hike is not for slow hikers. If you have any doubt, please contact us. If you are up to it, it will be a great hike with fantastic views. 

Event Coordinators: Mike Boisvert and Jon Normand

After The Hike: We'll either have a BBQ or order out for pizza back at my house in Waterville Valley so bring a change of clothes. I have lots of towels and everyone can take showers to clean up.  

Lodging Option: I have 8 bunks available with linen for both Friday and Saturday nights at my house in Waterville Valley for $20 [each night]. You can use the kitchen facilities and store beverages/food in the fridge. I serve coffee in the morning and a continental breakfast. Contact me to RSVP. SPACE IS LIMITED TO EIGHT GUYS.