The final SOTA hike of 2021 will be to Kidder Mountain on November 6th. The summit is reached via a 3.2 mi trail that starts from route 123 (turnpike rd.) Just a short drive from the center of New Ipswich. Windblown cross-country ski trails are on the left side of the road. Our trail follows the route of the Wapack trail which crosses the road from the left and then heads towards Kidder on the right-hand side of the road. Plan to meet at the parking area at 10:00 and we’ll head up from there.
Trail reports are talking about the trail being muddy so hiking boots are highly recommended. Also, make sure to have a fleece jacket and shell to keep the wind off of you.
Please reply in the comments section if you’re coming so I know how many people to expect.
Our next SOTA/POTA will be October 23rd. Pack Monadnock is another destination in the series that gives you the choice to either hike up or drive up via the auto road making it an easy choice to add to the list. Pack also gives really good views of the surrounding countryside which only increases the appeal of this mountain particularly at this time of year.
I’m planning on being on the summit at 11:00 am but you can get there earlier or show up later. There is a scattering of picnic tables so don’t forget to pack a lunch. It is advised to get a parking permit online for the auto road. Here is a link to get a permit.
If you’ve never been to Pack Monadnock travel west on 101 towards Peterborough. Miller State Park is on the right-hand side of the road across the street from the old Temple Mountain Ski area.
I haven’t been to Pack Monadnock for quite a while so I’m looking forward to it. I hope to see you there!
Please leave a comment on the story so I have an idea of how many people are planning on attending.
Our next SOTA hike is this Saturday, August 14th. We will be activating Pitcher Mtn. A very short hike (less than 20 min) will lead us to the open summit of this diminutive mountain. The summit is festooned with blueberry bushes so bring a suitable container if ham radio isn’t the only thing bringing you here.
John KB1EEU’s operating position on Mt. Kearsarge
The parking lot is off of route 123 in Stoddard and is a little over an hour’s drive from the Nashua area. My plan is to meet at the parking lot at 10:30 am. We will take the Pitcher Mountain trail (blazed white). If you want a bit more challenge you can take the blue-blazed trail which is a bit steeper. We had a great time activating Mount Kearsarge last month come on out and give SOTA a try. If you have any questions you can email me at [email protected]. I hope to see you there!
