 |
Web Hosting by Netfirms | Free Domain Names by Netfirms |
|
|
|
| Home | Trail Descriptions | Articles | Links | Seasonal Tips | Forum |
The Manning Trail near the AMC Cardigan Lodge consists of two segments that are rarely hiked together. The lower trail generally follows Bailey Brook downstream to Welton Falls and continues to the road beyond. The upper section described here leads from the Holt Trail near its beginning to the summit of Firescrew, named for the spiral forest fire that created the many open ledges. This trail is generally easier than the Holt Trail and harder than the Cathedral Forest Trail and is often used for a loop with one or the other.
Distance: From Holt Trail to Firescrew, about 2.0 miles one-way
From Cardigan Lodge to Cardigan summit also using Holt and Mowglis Trails, about 2.9 miles one-way
Elevation gain: From Holt Trail to Firescrew, about 1600 feet
From Cardigan Lodge to Cardigan summit also using Holt and Mowglis Trails, about 2000 feet (200 feet in reverse direction)
Maps:
USGS Mount Cardigan
AMC Mt. Cardigan
Map Notes: The USGS map shows mostly ski trails and not hiking trails (including this one) on the E side of Mount Cardigan. For trail locations, use the AMC map.
Location: Lakes Region
NH 2008-2009 map K-5
DeLorme NHA&G 34-A6/7 - Alexandria/Orange
Alexandria is on the W side of Newfound Lake, reached by Exit 23 of I-93
Lower End: Holt Trail about .3 miles from AMC Cardigan Lodge, elevation about 1400 feet
Far End: Mowglis Trail near summit of Firescrew, elevation about 3060 feet
Owner: AMC and state
Maintainer: Appalachian Mountain Club
Special regulations: No camping except official campsites
From the AMC Cardigan Lodge, follow the Holt Trail .3 miles to a junction where the Manning Trail turns R on a woods road and passes a group campsite (reserve at AMC Lodge). The Manning Trail soons leaves the woods road R and climbs moderately uphill to an open ledge at 1.3 miles with views back down the valley. From here to the summit, the trail is often on open rock slabs which may require use of hands although some sections are back in the woods. The high point of Firescrew is just before the junction with the Mowglis Trail at 2.0 miles or just to the R on that trail - take your pick.
To Mount Cardigan summit: Go L on the Mowglis Trail, descending to col then climbing cone to the summit, about .6 miles.
Trail very slippery when wet or icy.
Parking lot plowed in winter.
Road to AMC lodge plowed by town, but low priority after storms.
| Start a discussion about this page | e-mail Content Manager |