| Hiking Trail Conditions Report |
 | Peaks |
Stratton Mountain, North Stratton Mountain, Stratton Pond, VT |
|
 | Trails: |
Long Trail, Unnamed trail, Stratton Pond Trail, Stratton Pond Spur, Kelley Stand Road |
|
 | Date of Hike: |
Saturday, July 25, 2015 |
|
 | Parking/Access Road Notes: |
Plenty of space at the LT trailhead on Kelley Stand Road when I arrived, but cars were parked up and down the road when I returned. |
|
 | Surface Conditions: |
Dry Trail, Mud - Minor/Avoidable |
|
 | Recommended Equipment: |
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|
 | Water Crossing Notes: |
None of any significance. |
|
 | Trail Maintenance Notes: |
All trails in great shape, just a few minor blowdowns. SPT has the most bog bridges I've ever seen on a trail anywhere. |
|
 | Dog-Related Notes: |
Easy trails for dogs, but not much water aside from the pond. There's one small spring for hikers just beyond the Stratton summit on the SPT. |
|
 | Bugs: |
Not really. A welcome change from the Whites! |
|
 | Lost and Found: |
Nothing. |
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|
 | Comments: |
For a change of pace, I went to VT to hike the Stratton loop, including an out and back to the north peak to check out the ski area, which was mobbed with tourists. This side trip pushed the hike to 13 miles, but the trails here are very easy, nothing like the Whites! Flat to easy grades most of the way with good footing, and the hike up to the fire tower is very easy. There was a great vibe at the summit, with Jeanne and Hugh, who have been caretakers up here for 47 (!!) years, on hand to greet hikers, tell stories and provide info. Just super wonderful people who made everyone feel very welcome. Lots of through hikers coming and going through here as well, but oddly, I saw few other hikers actually on the trails. I guess we were all moving in the same direction at the same pace. Views from the tower were great, the only vistas you get on this hike. The pond is lovely, with loons cruising near the shore. The walk out SPT is a long one, but mostly flat so you can make good time. The mile road walk at the end wasn't fun, and I did get the offer of a ride, but wanted to complete the loop on my own steam. |
|
 | Name: |
KenM |
|
 | E-Mail: |
kmacgray@gmail.com |
|
| Date Submitted: |
2015-07-26 |
|
 | Link: |
 https:// |
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Disclaimer: Reports are not verified - conditions may vary. Use at own risk. Always be prepared when hiking. Observe all signs. Trail conditions reports are not substitutes for weather reports or common sense. |
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