Conditions: 23F (-5C), sunny and windy – fresh new snow
Distance: 2.0 mi (3.1 km) to summit from Rte 73 via Roaring Brook Trail
Duration: approx 3 hours (that’s mostly a guess -- we forgot to time the hike!)
What a way to start the New Year! A beautiful day, great hike and a stunning High Peaks view!
Not a mountain, Giant’s Nubble is instead a rocky outcrop on Giant Mt.’s southwest ridge. It offers great views of the mountains surrounding St. Hubert’s and the slides on Giant’s west face.
This hike started off with a detour close to the trailhead to check out the ice climbers on the ice sheet covering Roaring Brook Falls. There we met a nice bloke from New York City who originally hailed from the UK. He was nervously eying the ice above him while his very experienced hired guide picked out their route above. We were happy to stay on the ground!
Back on the main trail, we detoured at the top of the falls for the view and to look for the ice climbers. We couldn’t spot any from our vantage, but did find some rope marks in the fresh snow. Snapped a few pics, and back on the trail.
As on our first hike, we notice how the snow depth increases as we ascend. The winds are blustery and only the most protected tree limbs hold their snow. Trail markers on trees are usually placed high above our heads, but with the deepening snow they are at eye level or lower!
On the Nubble, we take in the view of the west face of Giant and watch the high winds blow a steady plume of snow off the summit. We are happy to watch this frozen vision from a distance! We move over to another cliff for the St. Hubert’s view where we take in the beautiful vista filled with peaks we’ve hiked over the summers. Gusts of wind whisk snow off those distant peaks too.
Out comes the tripod again and a series or pics results in this stunning picture. Exposed on the ridge, gusts of wind and blowing snow are hitting us too so we don’t linger long.
Once again our descent is fast. Sliding on the new snow is a hoot!
Clothing wise, this time we were better prepared. We were both dressed properly in layers, had plenty of water and some emergency gear, including ‘space’ blankets. Next time we’ll pack thick mitts/gloves for the summit and descent – our hands became quite chilled and took some time to warm up. And, looking at the fierceness of the wind at the top of Giant, we’ll also bring along our ski goggles when we hit those higher peaks.
So, another great snowshoe hike! I’m absolutely loving this sport and am looking forward to the next.
- J.
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