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We
reached the last set of falls along the trail, Cloudland Falls,
a little damp, but happy and making good time. The Falling Waters
Trail climbs steeply around the falls to a ledge at the top. Here,
there are some limited views back toward Mt Moosilauke, which
appeared to be still enshrouded in fog. We rested briefly, then
followed the trail across the brook and continued on upward.
Soon
the trail veered away from the brook, and began switchbacking
up the steep side of Little Haystack Mtn through the balsam fir
forest. When we finally reached Shining Rock, we paused for lunch,
sitting on a flattish rock overlooking the notch below. As always,
springs on the mountainside above keep this smooth slab perpetually
wet. It's dangerous to climb on it, so we sat glued to our airy
perch safely near the edge.
t's
not far from Shining Rock to the summit. Along the way, I paused
to take picture of Muffin, who for a change, struck a pretty good
pose. The moment we emerged from the scrub, the wind hit, chilling
me through my sweaty shirts. Soon afterward, we took refuge on the
lee side of a large rock, where I changed into something dry and
had another snack and drink of water.
Although
a bit hazy, the views in all directions were pretty good. To the
south, I could see Mts Flume and Liberty. In the west, directly
across the notch, was Mt Cannon. Owls Head and its prominent slide,
along with the Twins and Bonds were visible to the east. And toward
the north, Mt Lafayette was shrouded in swirling fog.
Just before
leaving Little Haystack, I looked up at the route we would be
following to Mt Lincoln. |
Cloudland
Falls, the highest falls along the trail. Here, the trail climbs
up steeply to a ledge at the top of the falls. |
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