Mt. Hedgehog Snowshoe Loop

It was a ‘Fellowship of Nine (and a half)’ that gathered at the Downes Brook/UNH/Potash trail head parking lot, on an overcast yet unseasonably warm Saturday morning, to deliver the ring to Mordor. However, we decided to leave the ring in an envelope for Frodo and Hike Mt. Hedgehog instead. :D

John, Sonny & I arrived early at around 9:15 to scope out the conditions of the trail and discovered them to be well broken, packed and covered with a light coating of dry powder that had developed from scattered flurries throughout the morning. Shortly after, Al, Matt, Stephen, Randy, GOme, Jim & Vinny trickled in with all present and accounted for by 10:15. After advising participants on choice of traction about half the group decided on microspikes while the other half stuck with snowshoes.  After a round of introductions we were on our way by 10:30 and headed south (clockwise) up the UNH Trail.

A nice easy grade for the first .2 miles gracefully increased to a moderate climb with some rolling up & down terrain to mix it up. It wasn’t long before we needed to stop and shed a layer or two as the temps held near or slightly above 30 degrees with very light flurries and no wind with breaks of sun peppered in.

Just after 2 miles we reached the East Ledges at 11:45 for our first official ‘drop pack & snack’. Here we were able to enjoy slightly filtered views of the eastern Sandwich Range, Mt Chocurua & surrounding peaks. Here, members were able to relax, catch their breath, chat, munch & hydrate in glove/hat free temps (again no wind).

After recharging and bonding we set out to summit Hedgehog. A brief decline followed by another moderate .9 mile incline and we were on ‘Top O’ The HOG’! Alas.. the overcast conditions were thinning and we took in notable views of Mt Potash, Mt Passaconaway and glimpses of the southern Sandwich Range. Here, a heartier dose of sustenance and merriment were had by all and by 12:30 we were way ahead of schedule and ready for a nice relaxed cadence for our descent.

At 1.8 miles from the summit, we reached the Allen’s Ledge where although the temps & wind held in our favor, so did the clouds. We were still able to commune with the surrounding peaks, but more importantly we were able to pause and strengthen the bond of our group. By 1:30 we were on our way for the final leg of our descent. At two distinctly different spots along the way down, we encountered a flock of Starlings in the trees above that were excited about either our presence or something far more mystical, with an unexpected chatter that was worth noting.

By 2:30, an hour ahead of schedule, we reached the trailhead.. everyone present, accounted for and feeling high. Equipment was removed, layers were shed and we all headed east for Tex Mex at Café Noche in Conway (buena comida y bebida), stopping at the Saco Ranger Station along the way so several members could purchase annual parking pass stickers and souveniers.

After an outstanding meal, a round (or two) of libations and some good conversation at Café Noche, our group bid our goodbyes for the day and went off in our separate directions. As my first officially led GO trip, I have to extend my warmest gratitude for this gracious, amicable and good natured group of guys that made this event a wonderful & permanent memory for me. Thanks to Steve and John for your photos and a warm welcome to Vinny & GOme as brand new members to GO.  See you boys next time!  

Summary:  Located just north of Mt. Passaconaway in the Swift River Valley, Mt. Hedgehog separates the valley of the Oliverian Brook on its east from that of the Downes Brook on the west. The UNH Trail takes us to the summit of Mt. Hedgehog (2532') with a cumulative elevation gain of 1450' . The grade is moderate and only the final sections require a little extra effort.  The advantage in taking the loop in a clockwise direction is to view the Presidential Range and Mt. Washington as we reach the summit from the south.  Hedgehog is strikingly shaped with Allen's Ledge on the north, and the huge East ledges on Little Hedgehog.  The vantage point from Allen's Ledge, which we'll visit on the way down after reaching the summit, affords remarkable views of Mt. Passaconaway, Mt. Chocorua, the Moats, the Presidential Range, the Carrigain Range, and many other eastern peaks. On a clear day even the observatory on top of Mt. Washington is visible. Although this is a popular trail and usually broken, snowshoes will be required.  You can reserve and rent snowshoes from your local outdoor outfitter such as REI, EMS, etc. Total distance for this loop is 5 miles with 1,450 feet of elevation gain.  It will take approximately 5 hours to complete allowing for a leisurely lunch at the summit or ledges and breaks.

What To Bring/Wear:  Be sure to bring appropriate winter gear such as winter insulated boots, additional/alternative traction (micropikes, crampons, etc.), snowshoes (I may have a pair to borrow if needed), warm clothing (dress in layers, cotton and blue jeans not recommended), water, lunch and snacks, etc.  After the hike we can gather for pub & grub in the Conway area if there is sufficient interest.