4180' Old Speck

I could see the top of Old Speck as I drove rt26 into Grafton Notch covered in what I thought was hoar frost, but Jeff could see the high peaks of the Whites from his home and mentioned they were snow covered. Cool start with the trail covered w/the leaves from a just beyond peak season. Took the Eyebrow Trail option as the first 1.1 miles which was steep, dramatic w/cables as handholds up rock slabs, iron rungs as foot stabilizers across seeping granite, maybe not always for the faint of heart. Jeff assured us that though we were much impressed by his stories of a winter hike of this trail, it was actually easier w/ crampons across packed snow and ice. Temps dropped as we ascended and we were well clothed and could add layers. Quite a few hikers, however, started in shorts and stayed in shorts. I did not believe a single rationalization for the comfort and reasoning of such a choice that any of these folks told me. A really high spirited group of guys from the Bucksport soccer team w/coach were doing the climb as part of a breast cancer fund raiser. They had each secured pledges and were proudly wearing pink t-shirts and socks. The approach closer to the summit was icy in spots, none of us took a fall, and the extraordinary beauty of snow covered trees. Lunch at the summit. I chose to climb the viewing platform up a vertical metal runged ladder. Incredably windy but 360° views. My promised thermos of hot chocolate was only mildly warm chocolate, but I meant well. Saw the trail maintainer on the way down as well as a late season AT northbounder who said in Rangeley he was heading to Katahdin to come south. He was excited. A beautiful hike marked w/easy conversation and continually beautiful trail. Thanks to Jeff and Paul.

Pleasant, basically moderate fall hike from Grafton Notch to the flat wooded summit of Old Speck Mt, Maine's 3rd highest peak, where there is a viewing platform, converted from an old fire tower. Excellent extensive views of Maine/New Hampshire mts near and far. 3.8 miles one way, 7.6 total, w/about 2500' elevation gain. Peak foliage. Bring lunch, snacks, 2 liters water, (I'll bring the hot chocolate. No joke!), weather appropriate clothes...fleece, cap, light gloves, polypro or long pants even if you choose to wear shorts, rain jacket.