Black Mountain -- 29-30 Mar 08
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1.0 Overview

This outing is a winter overnight climb of Black Mountain for both younger and older scouts. At 2,836 feet, Black Mountain is not large, but it rises steeply from the Connecticut River valley to a rocky summit, so in winter conditions it provides plenty of challenge. The approach over the Chippewa trail is quite steep in places, and it may present a few difficulties. The snow and weather conditions will make for serious winter camping.

2.0 Concept

2.1 Description

We will approach by the Chippewa (Haverhill Heritage) Trail, starting at the trailhead on Limekiln Road. The trail is only about 2.5 miles, but it involves deep snow, crossing bodies of water (the beaver ponds), and several very steep slopes. March can bring almost any weather, so we should be prepared for serious weather conditions. The Chippewa Trail briefly follows a woods road before starting the ascent. The trail then goes through a spruce forest and then lastly over a section of bare rock. Snowshoes will be essential for travel, both for deep snow and for ice.

After climbing and setting up camp, we may do another activity like making an excursion to Tipping Rock. We will be ariving late in the day because we are leaving after the pancake breakfast.

In the morning we will break camp and return to the base by way of the Chippewa Trail.

Given the difficulty of the approach, the troop will be prepared to camp enroute, but if all goes well, we should be able to camp at the site just below the summit.

2.2 Schedule of Events

Saturday, 29Mar08
1130 -- Meet at the community center after the pancake breakfast.
1230 -- Arrive at trailhead (eat lunch on route).
1600 -- Arrive at summit.
1630 -- Set up camp. Excusion to Tipping Rock if time.
1800 -- Dinner
1930 -- Campfire
2200 -- Lights Out

Sunday, 30Mar08
0800 -- Breakfast
1000 -- Strike Camp
1030 -- Begin Descent
1200 -- Reach Trailhead
1330 -- Arrive in Hanover

2.3 Expected Conditions and Difficulty

This climb should be well prepared for and is not to be taken lightly. The weather conditions could be serious, and proper clothing will be essential. Expect snow, ice, rock, and cold conditions. Snowshoes will be required, as it is likely we will have deep snow. Water is available by melting snow. The campsite is well protected from the weather by being off the summit and in the woods.

2.4 Special Requirements

Open to all Boy Scouts, Scouters, and parents.

3.0 Administration and Logistics

3.1 Announcement Date: 5 Mar 08

3.2 Roster Closing Date: 26 Mar 08

3.3 Costs

None

3.4 Equipment

3.4.1 Individual Equipment

  • Class A uniform for travel.
  • Winter camping gear as described in the Personal Equipment List. Pay particular attention to the clothing, winter supplement, and survival equipment sections.
  • Your share of equipment and supplies planned by your tent group.
  • Adequate clothing for the weather!
  • Snowshoes required.
  • Ice Axe and Crampons optional. (You must have T45 ice axe training to use these!)
  • Bring a bag lunch to eat in the car on Saturday.
  • Cooking is by tent group. Bring Saturday dinner, Sunday breakfast and lunch.

    3.4.2 Patrol Equipment

  • None. Plan tentage, cooking, and food by tent group.

    3.4.3 Troop Equipment

  • First Aid Kit
  • AMC Map 5, or East Haverhill Quadrangle, or Library Copy.

    3.5 Transportation Plan

    Drop-off Point: Rec center parking lot.
    Drop-off Time: 1130 Sat 29 Mar 08 (right after the Pancake Breakfast)
    Pick-up Point: Rec center parking lot.
    Pick-up Time: 1330 Sun 30 Mar 08

    Driving Directions: NH 10 north through Haverhill. Right on NH 25, east to East Haverhill. Left on Limekiln Road, north about 4 miles to trailhead parking. The spot is on the right at the first left curve after a long, straight section.

    4.0 Leadership

    4.1 Planning Committee

  • Robin
  • Oli

    4.2 Adult Leaders

  • SMIC: Mr. Smith
  • Dr. Brown
  • Mr. Roberts
  • Mr. Wallace

    Approved TPS 23Mar08

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