I got to take my friend Kaley on her first winter hike in the Whites this week! Where to go?! She's a strong hiker, but I didn't want us to bite off more than we could chew. Plus, we were bringing her 40 pound dog so nothing too technical. I chose South Moat Mountain - a 2,770 foot peak south of North Conway that's a great moderate climb with an awesome 360 degree view. Kaley is hooked and ready for some more winter hiking. As am I!
Here's how to recreate this adventure...
Adventure: South Moat Mountain in Winter
Getting there: South Moat Mountain parking lot is located on Passaconaway Road, just west of Conway village. To get there, I drive Route 16 north. In Conway at the light, turn left onto Washington Street. Keep left onto West Side Rd. After 0.7 miles turn left onto Passaconoway Road. Drive 3.2 miles and the parking lot will be on the right. It is signed with a WMNF trail head/hiker symbol.
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| Amazing Blue Bird Day on the Summit of South Moat Mountain in the White Mountains. |
Trail: From the parking lot, there is only one trail to choose from. This is a 5 mile out and back trail. All Trails app rates it difficult but by White Mountains standards, I'd rate is as a solid "moderate". The trail starts relatively gradual - meandering through hardwood forest with peaks of scenery through leaves. There is a small brook crossing in the first mile or so with a bridge. After a couple miles, the trail continues into a more aggressive incline. In winter, packed snow and ice hide the rocks and the trek with spikes is like a ever steepening ramp. With the last mile to go, hikers are rewarded with an opening and outlook onto southern peaks of Mt. Chocorua and others. We had the perfect blue bird day to enjoy the view!
The summit of South Moat is stunning - 360 degree views of the White Mountains and North Conway below. With no cover, the wind was impressive and we didn't stay long before descending for our lunch break. Hikers can have the option to continue to North Moat, but I've never gone for it. With warming temperatures, we struggled more on the way down as the snow was melting and we began to post hole through the deep snow. Still, it was a perfect winter hike on a beautiful day!
Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult
Distance: 5 miles out and back total (2.5 miles each way)
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| Gorgeous winter afternoon light coming down the Moat Mountain Trail. |
Recommendations:
- There are no bathrooms at the trailhead.
- You need traction on your boots to hike in winter. I prefer microspikes but we saw other hikers with snowshoes.
- There was no place to pay to hike this trail, but I'm pretty sure in summer/high traffic months there is a $5 fee associated with parking on WMNF land. Come prepared with cash or check for a self service station.
- Winter hiking can be dangerous. Plan ahead by bringing - waterproof winter boots, traction (see above), extra warm layers and dry clothes, extra socks (Kaley replaced hers twice!), first aid kit (so glad I had this for blisters!), food and water, map, and let a friend know your plan!
- Wear sunscreen - the snow reflects light and you will get burned!
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| Jumping for joy on the summit of South Moat Mountain in the White Mountains. |
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