We decided to keep it relatively flat and hike a loop around Smarts Brook in Waterville Valley. This is a terrific winter hike through pleasant woods following Pine Flats, Yellow Jacket, and Tri Town trails. The whole loop comes out to 3.6 miles round trip with 400 feet elevation gain.

We wore jingle bells, Santa/Elf hats, and other festive holiday outfits that brought smiles to a lot of people!   Micro spikes were a must in the Pine Flats Trail but after that not so much.  The trail was a combination of snow/ice and getting softer near the end of the day. We had seasonable temperatures in the mid 30’s under cloudy skies.  

We started hiking on the Pine Flats Trail along Smarts Brook for several views down into the long gorge with sheer rocks walls adorned with picturesque frozen ice walls! We then continued to the plateau where we reached the “Christmas Tree Lot”; an unusual forest of red and white pine. We then followed Yellow Jacket Trail, crossed a cool bridge and took Tri-Town Trail to return.  

We reached the junction of the herd path at the height of land. We intrepid adventurers followed the herd path to ledge. It was cloudy today with a low cloud ceiling but usually there is a fine view of Welch/Dickey, Jennings Peak and Mad River Valley! We descended back to our vehicles admiring the many fine features found in our forests.

We then went back to our house to sit by a roasty- toasty fire, soak in the hot tub and enjoy a delicious dinner prepared by Jon: Tossed Salad, Prime Rib, Vegetarian Stuffed Shells, Basmati Rice with artichokes & lemon, meatballs & hot Italian sausage, mashed potatoes, green beans and a delicious cake topped with fresh raspberries.   As always, it great seeing everyone again and wishing you all a Happy New Year!

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