There was to be a break in the weather so north I went.  My hike would start off Sawyer River road and follow the Signal Trail to the summit. The hike is 5.1 miles from the parking lot to the summit for 10.2 rt.

Today I would be hiking solo. I would prefer to be with someone, obviously it’s safer but I have taken all the precautions and am fully equipped. Well I did forget my hiking poles but that shouldn’t be a problem.

The trail started out following a fast flowing stream the grade of the trail was quite easy for the first couple miles with a long stretch that was nearly level. The trail is an old woods road that has grown in. At about 2 miles in the trail split with the Carrigain Notch Trail to the right and Signal Trail to the left. Not far after the split there is a stream crossing that is the widest of the bunch and without poles was a tricky rock hop. This stream could be trouble in higher water requiring a walk up or down to find a way to pass. I also noticed that there really wasn’t much in the way of trail markers or blazes on the trees up to this point. This is not an issue this time of year but in the winter could make staying on the trail a bit tricky.

After crossing the stream the trail starts getting steeper quickly and maintains a steady steep grade throughout. The footing and condition of the trail was excellent compared to many other trails, there were not a lot of high step up and downs that can be hard on the knees. The trail is fairly grown in and does not afford much in the way of views until you get almost on top. There are a couple windows to view here and there but not many. The last 1/2 mile of trail there is an interesting ridge walk which is similar to the alpine areas of the presidentials.

I made the summit in just over 3 hours. The summit has a tower that affords 360 degree views of the whites which is quite unique. I hung out, had my lunch, and took some photos for about 45 minutes. I had the summit to myself the entire time which I must say is rare, The last summit I had to myself was Mt Eisenhower last summer.

The weather report was to be for clearing skies but upon arrival there were cumulus clouds and they looked to be building. I could see lake Winnipesaukee and a town in the distance I think was Bartlett. The views were outstanding and I would guess I could see 30-40 miles likely more.

I started down and made great time. I had to pump water from one of the little springs trickling across the trail to replenish my Camelback and made it down in just over 2 hours. The stretch of trail (the initial 2 miles) is a nice woods walk for anyone to enjoy. It crosses steams several times and they were flowing well. This area would also be very condusive to tenting overnight and or picnicking. The stream certainly run well enough and are large enough to hold brook trout. I also noticed the Sawyer River would be awesome fishing with access off the Sawyer River road it is an easy walk down the bank 40 yards or so. I certainly will revisit this area in the future with tent and pole.