I have to admit this turned out better than I would have expected. We all pulled in to the Lincoln woods parking lot at 6:30. The group pulled together, 8 in all, and we were off by 6:45. Note to next group to do Owl’s head, 6:45 worked perfect. It is always difficult to judge the speed of a group vs. a single hiker.
The weather reports were not good but it was dry starting out. We took the straight forward approach. Out Lincoln woods trail, Franconia brook to the Lincoln Brook Trail. The trail was very easy to follow. Then started the river crossings over and over and over. The water was low making it easy on the group. We made it to the spur trail marked by a small cairn then up the slide. We meet two guys coming down with an American flag. They wanted to make the 911 remembrance, but did not join up with the group.
The last mile is the toughest. Up the slide. We all made it up with 45 minutes to spare. Traversing to the actual summit takes a little bushwhacking due to some blow downs that have cause the trail to be lost. We made it to the actual summit and found a small opening in the trees.
Old Glory was up by 11:45, and proudly displayed. Over the next hour 10 hikers joined us for pictures on then top.
Knowing the weather was barreling in and a thunder comment we decided to take the flag down at 1pm. We literally had just packed up and started across the traverse when the helicopter flew over head looking for the flag. They made 2 passes just after 1pm.
We felt bad pulling in early, but considering the 10 mile hike to get out and the on coming weather it was the right choice.
On the way out we made it to the bridge on the Lincoln woods trail before the deluge hit.
The group continued back to the parking lot with out a break in the conversation. – Only minor injuries, with fun had by all. This was a great group. I enjoyed hiking with everyone. One of the most enjoyable days hiking – And yes even with the down pour.
