Black Mountain -- 29 Jan 12
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1.0 Overview

This outing is a winter climb of Black Mountain. At 2,836 feet, Black Mountain is not large, but it rises steeply from the Connecticut River valley to a rocky summit, so in winter conditions it provides plenty of challenge. The approach over the Chippewa trail is quite steep in places, and it may present a few difficulties. The lack of snow this winter means that some stretches of trail will be very icy.

2.0 Concept

2.1 Description

We will approach by the Chippewa (Haverhill Heritage) Trail, starting at the trailhead on Limekiln Road. The trail is only about two miles, but it involves ice, crossing bodies of water (the beaver ponds), and several very steep slopes. January can bring almost any conditions, so we should be prepared for serious weather conditions. The Chippewa Trail briefly follows a woods road before starting the ascent. The trail then goes through a spruce forest and then lastly over a section of bare rock. Since we've had so little snow this winter, snowshoes will not be necessary, but there are several very icy sections so some kind of foot traction devices will be important.

Depending on time and interest, there are several interesting things to do at the summit. We could make an excursion to Tipping Rock or check out the rocky south ridge.

2.2 Schedule of Events

Sunday, 29Jan12

0800 -- Meet at the community center. Gear check.
0830 -- Depart.
0945 -- Arrive at trailhead on Limekiln Rd.
1000 -- On Trail.
1200 -- Summit. Lunch. Excursion to Tipping Rock if time.
1300 -- Begin descent.
1445 -- Arrive at trailhead.
1500 -- Depart for Hanover.
1615 -- Arrive in Hanover

2.3 Expected Conditions and Difficulty

This climb should be well prepared for and is not to be taken lightly.

2.4 Special Requirements

Open to all Boy Scouts, Scouters, and parents.

3.0 Administration and Logistics

3.1 Announcement Date: 4 Jan 12

3.2 Roster Closing Date: 29 Jan 12

3.3 Costs

None

3.4 Equipment

3.4.1 Individual Equipment

  • Class A uniform for travel.
  • Winter hiking gear as described in the Personal Equipment List. Pay particular attention to the clothing, winter supplement, and survival equipment sections.
  • Adequate clothing for the weather!
  • Some kind of foot traction device such as YakTrax, StabilIcers or similar. Snowshoes with crampons will work.
  • Ice Axe and Crampons optional. (You must have T45 ice axe training to use these!)
  • Lunch.

    3.4.2 Patrol Equipment

  • None.

    3.4.3 Troop Equipment

  • First Aid Kit
  • AMC Map 5, or East Haverhill Quadrangle, or Library Copy.

    3.5 Transportation Plan

    Drop-off Point: Rec center parking lot.
    Drop-off Time: 0800 Sun 29 Jan 12
    Pick-up Point: Rec center parking lot.
    Pick-up Time: 1615 Sun 29 Jan 12

    Driving Directions to trailhead: I91 N to exit 16. VT/NH25 E to Piermont. NH10 N to Haverhill. NH 25 E through Pike to left on Limekiln Rd. Limekiln Rd N about 4 miles. The trailhead is on the right at the first left curve after a long straight section.

    4.0 Leadership

    4.1 Planning Committee

  • Stefan

    4.2 Adult Leaders

  • SMIC: Mr. Brown
  • Mr. Passow
  • Mr. Mendelsohn

    Approved YJB 26Jan12

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