South Baldface

Trail: Baldface Circle Trail, Bicknell Ridge Trail

Conditions: Dry Trail, Ice - Black, Snow - Trace/Minimal Depth, Wet Trail, Wet/Slippery Rock, Ice - Breakable Crust, Snow - Unpacked Powder, Standing/Running Water on Trail, Snow/Ice - Small Patches

“Best to go clockwise for this hike because the ledges heading up South Baldface have considerable ice. We used spikes but it was still challenging with the boulder scrambling-particularly if you're on the shorter side. Going up South and between South and North, there were a few inches of snow/low drifts, and gaiters would have been great just to keep the snow out of our trail runners. Water crossings were ok but water was definitely flowing at the two we crossed coming down. Feet will likely get wet at the second one but it's almost back to the lot so not really an issue for us.”

Trail: Slippery Brook Trail, Baldface Knob Trail, Baldface Circle Trail, Meader Ridge Trail, Basin Rim Trail, Basin Trail

Conditions: Ice - Black, Snow - Trace/Minimal Depth, Wet Trail, Wet/Slippery Rock, Standing/Running Water on Trail, Mud - Minor/Avoidable, Leaves - Significant/Slippery, Slush

“Roadwalked from Basin trailhead to Baldface trailhead. Took slippery brook to avoid S Baldface ledges. Patches of snow started at around 2,800 ft. Below treeline sections between S and N Baldface had 2-4” of snow. Trail was flooded with snowmelt in many spots. Some ice but avoidable, never put on spikes. Exposed areas on the Baldfaces were mostly free of snow/ice. Saw lots of grouse on the trail.”

Trail: Baldface Circle Trail, Bicknell Ridge Trail

Conditions: Dry Trail

“This was a pretty difficult hike today for a number of reasons; high temperature (80's) long distance, and of course age. The first paragraph in the guidebook ends with a statement, "This is a strenuous trip that should not be underestimated". Take heed. I did the loop in a clock-ways direction and was glad for going up the South slide, this was very difficult even in dry conditions and I would not attempt it if wet. The fall views were magnificent with clear skies in all directions. I find it amazing how many different directional views of Mount Washington can be seen from just traveling from South to North Baldface and on to the junction with the Bicknell Ridge Trail. On descent the BRT had wonderful views west to the valley and ridge up to South Baldface and they would have been better if it was a morning sun rather than afternoon. The only water encountered was in Charles Brook at the end of a long day but still enjoyable to wash off with.”