NORTH AND SOUTH KINSMAN NEW YEAR’S EVE WINTER HIKE

It was a day of missing turns, sketchy trail conditions but above all, excellent camaraderie with nine kinsmen!

Today we hiked to North Kinsman [4293 feet] and Bald Peak [2,470 feet]. We planned on South Kinsman however given the time we reached North Kinsman; it was best to save it for another day. Overall mileage was 8.2 miles with 3,300 feet gain.

The “first” missing turn was for the trailhead parking for the Mount Kinsman Trail [MKT]. There is not a hiker sign anymore. First Kevin missed it but quickly realized it however it took Russ about 10 minutes continuing down the road before he realized it. I think we got going around 8:30AM.

The conditions and the fact that we were carrying the kitchen sink for gear [snowshoes, etc.] made for slow going. I'll gladly trade 50-degree days with rain for 0 degrees and a foot of powder to break!

We started on bare dry ground with a few icy stretches so we did not put on our Microspikes until the third water crossing. Sharp Hillsounds Microspikes and caution was the way to go however some guys did fine with newer Kahtoola Microspikes. 

Three crossings on MKT were all flowing strong and whatever sections of ice/snow bridging that remained could not be trusted. The water was so high it was running on top of much of the ice! The first crossing we used a log to cross. Next crossing we used rocks with a couple of steps and a decaying snow bridge. The higher crossing just below Bald Peak Spur had significant ice where the trail crosses so we went upstream about 15 ft where it was narrower and found some supportive ice on the sides and pole vaulted the short distance to the other side.

After the Bald Peak junction, MKT was well packed as we meandered upward at varying easy to moderate grades, with occasional steeper pitches. When we reached Kinsman Ridge Trail, we were greeted with views of Cannon Mtn and the Cannonballs. We could see the subtle ghost of Mt. Lafayette shielded by the clouds in the distance!

The snow was soft but not enough for snowshoes with the ledge scrambles having some serious ice making the final push challenging. By the time we reached North Kinsman, the clouds disappeared and we were able to enjoy views of Franconia Ridge, Loon Mountain ski trails, and Mts. Liberty and Flume! We stopped here for lunch and then made our return.

The ‘second’ missing turn was when Rob, Russ and Kevin missed the turn to MKT and continued down Kinsman Ridge Trail. They were ahead of us and we thought it was odd they did not wait for us at the intersection. We continued down the MKT and began to think they missed the turn since we had not seen them. Luckily, they had the sense when they reached the Fishin’ Jimmy Trail that they made a wrong turn and reversed course. They caught up to us on the descent.

We made a quick stop at Bald Peak during our descent, which was just a 0.2 mile detour off of Mt. Kinsman Trail. I was hesitant because we were all pretty tired after the long hike, but the short addition was so worth it! We had gorgeous views to the east. The rest of the descent was pretty straightforward except for being careful with the water crossings once more and lots of mud! By the time we got to our vehicles we were all exhausted.

Upon on our return, we hung out by the fireplace with an assortment of appetizers and soaked our tired muscles in the hot tub. Jon cooked up a delicious herb crusted Prime Rib with Beef Au Jus/ horseradish sauce! The meal was accompanied with roasted potatoes and asparagus with warm bread from the oven. We then had warm molted lava cake topped with whipped cream for dessert. Yum! What a treat for New Year’s Eve! We then opened up some Prosecco Champagne to toast the New Year. Happy New Year everyone! 

Kick off 2023 with a New Year’s Eve 10 mile winter hike up to the summits of the two Kinsmen...North and South (4293' and 4358', respectively).  We will ascend by way of the Mount Kinsman Trail, which approaches the ridge from the west.  The ridge is only 3.7 miles from this trailhead.  Both of these peaks offer spectacular views.  From North Kinsman there is a ledge which looks northward along the ridge as well eastward over Lonesome Lake and over to the Franconia Ridge.  The more open South Kinsman provides nice views in all directions.  For the most part the trail is less steep than the ascent from the east, but there will be a few short steep stretches of trail.  Elevation gain is about 3900-ft.  This hike will take about 8 to 8.5 hours.  We will return the way we came.

What to wear/bring:  MicroSpikes will be necessary. We’ll let you know a few days prior if snowshoes will be needed. Don't forget to wear warm layers [NO COTTON OR BLUE JEANS], gloves, warm hat, rain/wind shell, goggles, face protection, headlamp/flashlight, water, lunch, snacks, and anything else you would bring for a cold weather hike. We are taking hand warmers for our gloves. Winter insulated boots to keep your feet and toes warm recommended.

We’ll have lunch on the summit. Carry at least 2 liters of water [use hot water and place your water bottle in a thick wool sock, insulated thermos or water bottle parka], lunch and snacks. A small thermos of hot liquids is a welcome treat at the summit!

Après Hiking Dinner:  Everyone is welcome to join us back at our house in Waterville Valley to relax beside our fireplace with views of the Sandwich Mountain/Mad River [BYOB and bring snacks] followed by one of Jon's delicious dinners. We ask $10 per person to help pay for our food costs. Showers are available so bring a change of clothing to make your visit with us more comfortable. Bring some Champagne and hopefully we can stay awake long enough for a midnight toast!!!   

Lodging Option: Bunk beds are available at our house [with Wi Fi] near Waterville Valley, NH for Friday and/or Saturday night. The cost is $25 for Friday night and $35 for Saturday that includes dinner [$60 for the weekend]. Coffee/bagels each morning and linen/blankets/towels are provided. Space is limited so email ASAP to reserve a bunk!