Mount Washington — Sunday, Dec. 28, 2025

Fantastic day on Mount Washington today as conditions were perfect!  Got to trailhead at 8 am.  Layered up in the parking lot and packed up snowshoes and microspikes.  Had gaiters on as well which always help with keeping feet warmer and dryer.  Started up the trail noticing a few small (<1 ft diameter) trees down in the first 2 miles.  First stream crossing had good rocks above the surface to use but still be careful as they can ice over.  It was close to freezing or slightly below on the ascent.  The snow started close to 2000 ft, first a crusting of ice/compact snow then the powder started in earnest close to 2600 ft.  It was compacted all the way to the summit and I’d say 6-18 inches up until the summit.  The “stream” area still had running water but it was so easy to stay dry (mostly snow/ powder in the vicinity).  Large steps were kicked into the snow on steep areas.  Only scant evidence of postholing  seen.  The rock traverses were completely snow covered and safe passage.  We easily booted all the way to the summit without snowshoes or spikes.  Had some time in the sun as we had 360 views at both the false and kind of 180 degrees at true summit (steep drop off there so be mindful).  Had lunch and summit treats at false summit then headed down.  Thought to use spikes but chose not to even though they would have assisted in the last 2 miles on the way down.  I’d say the biggest obstacle was the brushy branches near the trail that you needed to pay close attention to.  One of our group members hit a low lying spiky branch in the scalp causing a little laceration which was fine but it hurt.  The descent yielded no snow or water falling from the trees, no postholing or slush as the temps stayed low.  Saw a few people heading up as we were descending but really pretty quiet today.  Great outing with perfect conditions and friends!