Hiking Stinson Mountain

It was another beautiful day which just beckoned hikers to the woods. My friend Sue and I selected Stinson Mountain in Rumney. A relatively easy climb on the NH 52 with a View list. At 2,900 feet and only 1.8 miles one way, it seemed like the perfect trail for catching some fresh air and getting a little exercise.

What was surprising was the amount of snow that greeted us, as soon as we started ascending Cross Road, which runs along Stinson Lake. Where there was only a dusting of snow on the ground back home, here, it was below freezing and definitely felt and looked like winter. The parking lot was full, only holding about 4 cars, but fortunately someone was leaving just as we pulled in.

Once we got started I could tell that it was going to be one of those days when hiking felt like a burden, so I was grateful for the mostly gradual ascent. However, at about 1.1 miles the hiking trail splits right and a snowmobile trail stays left. We followed the hiking trail, which turned out to be much steeper and longer.

I was definitely grateful for the microspikes on this portion of the trail

 As we continued to climb, the tall birches transitioned to shorter conifers before opening up to the summit.

As usual, once we reached the top, the work to get there was soon forgotten as we got out our sandwiches and enjoyed the view from the foundation of the old fire tower.

On the way down, we took the more direct route on the snowmobile trail. There is supposed to be a side trail to an overlook of Stinson Lake, but we never found it. I did, however capture a cool photo of frozen Old Man's Beard.

Old Man's Beard (Usnea) is a type of lichen used traditional used for its antibiotic properties.

After we finished the hike, we decided hot beverages were in order. We discovered the Common Cafe right in the center of Rumney Village. My latte was perfect and Sue's hot chocolate was rich and creamy. They both went well with a fresh cranberry almond scone. If we ever pass this way again in the summer, I will have to try one of their fruit smoothies, such as the Restless Native (banana, honey, espresso and milk) or the Climbers Way (strawberries, banana, blueberries, hone and yogurt.) 

The exterior and

interior of the Common Cafe and Tavern