A returning guest came to us looking for a companion for two more winter 4000-footers. Namely they wanted Mt Isolation and Mt Carrigain. Oddly enough, these two mountains in particular seem to switch places in the winter, at least in terms of total mileage. In the winter, thanks to its added 4 mile road walk — two miles out and two miles back — Mt Carrigain increases from a 10 mile day to a 14 miler. Whereas thanks to the “Engine Hill” and “Iso Express” bushwhacks, grabbing Mt Isolation in winter shrinks from around a 14 mile day to one just over ten. To our guest these were winter peaks #31 and #32! On lead for this trip was Redline Guide Chase Hall. He offered us these words and photos:
It never get old when you see someone accomplish something good. To witness someone dig deep to achieve a goal is a privilege. I had the honor to witness this over the weekend when a returning guest traveled all the way from Pennsylvania to hike two very tough mountains in winter, namely Mt Isolation and Mt Carrigain.
Isolation in winter can be a lot of fun because you can bushwhack through some really nice birch glades. It’s one of the best winter summits because Isolation lives up to its name being isolated from all others as it is. It’s just you and the wilderness.
Carrigain is one of the summits that a lot of hikers opt to finish their 48 list on because. Makes sense: it has some of the best views in the White Mountain National Forest. Further, when you reach the summit there’s an observation deck from which you can see for miles in all directions. From that deck you’re able to see many of the other 4000-footers. This second hike was in and out of clouds all day. When we summited the cloud deck was right at 4700 feet. It was pretty cool to see. —Chase
Mt Isolation, #31W
Mt Carrigain, #32W
