Monadnock Double Traverse (NH)

[bennephew]

Mount Monadnock has a number of great trails, but the Pumpelly and Marlboro trails make an interesting traverse that avoids the traffic on some of the more popular trails on the mountain. The Pumpelly trail consists mostly of an exposed ridge with excellent views all along the trail. The upper section of the trail on the exposed summit can be difficult to follow at times. The Marlboro trails gets down the mountain quickly and includes several short rock scrambles. The double traverse packs 4300' of climb in 13 miles, not exactly a half marathon PR course. The trail is consistently technical, with only a few short stretches that allow you to open it up. I ran from the Pumpelly trailhead to Shaker Rd. and back in 2:32:20 on 5/17/14.

connect.garmin.com/activity/501536288

[neil]

Figured I would try to resurrect this cold case today (6/14/17). The route deserves lots of attention. The views are incredible for most of the run. I'm not sure if run is the right word. My "crabwalk" training came in handy on the descents. This not a place where you go with a handheld and Hokas. This is full on grabbing at split rock and tree roots. Today was gorgeous, the views were endless, and the crowds were minimal. I lowered the time to 2:26:54. Not exactly a huge margin, but, goodness gracious, Ben's FKT times are crazy strong. 

www.strava.com/activities/1037145346

-Neil Clauson