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A short out-and-back. Trail condition is excellent.
It's a pretty easy trail, with only a couple steep spots and one slight scramble with plenty of hand/foot holds.
Descent can be a little tricky due to small pebble/gravel in a couple spots, but nothing really treacherous.
View:effort ratio is outstanding. The S & E views are great; but I prefer the views of the Rocky Branch valley, from the northern side
(continue past the summit).
The trail leads to ledges with sharp long dropoffs.
It is not necessary to go near cliff edges, but they are potentially hazardous.
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Despite getting up at 4:30 AM I didnt make trailhead until about 9.30. Sometimes, seems the earlier I get up the later I get to the trailhead. Sort of bad Zen...
Fortunately, though, this is not a high traffic destination and it didnt really matter - unlike (I heard) the Falling Waters loop...
I knew the Presi's and Franconia Ridge would be mobbed, so I went for a lesser known hike.
No regrets! I had one f-i-n-e day!
The plan was to loop from the end of Mt Alton Road to Straightback , the Precipice Trail down, then up to Anna, then back down via the Red Trail.
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Having blown through all my personal/sick days already this year, when I had a set of appointments Tuesday I had to take a vacation day.
There was no way I was going to go home to do yard work on a vacation day , so after my last appointment I headed for the nearest mountain ....
Gallery / slide show
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Mt Major from the other side, and a loop over Straightback.
And newts. Lots of newts.
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Reservation/Tower Rd Jct > Tower Rd > Mountain Trail > South Ridge Trail > Boulder Trail > North Mt Trail > Reservation Road
6.4 mi 1800' gain
Lots of people, dogs, vultures and sun out today!
Cars were lined along the road at all 3 entry points along Reservation Road.