Castle Ravine Trail
This is the third installment. Check back each week as we count down to number one!
CONTRIBUTION BY ELIZABETH KANE
The Castle Ravine in its glory
History: The Castle Ravine trail was first cut by the Randolph Mountain Club between 1916 and 1922 and still remains under their stewardship. As with many WMNF trails, the long reach of the logging industry spelled disaster for the virgin forests of this ravine. The area was heavily logged in the late 1800s/early 1900s and the mark of destruction is still evident on the lower reaches of this trail.
A 1991 slide shifted the route of the trail on the headwall. The path can be difficult to follow, so take care to follow paint blazes and cairns.
A 2010 avalanche dumped a massive amount of debris across the trail on an unmistakable section below the headwall of difficult footing over mats of branches and logs.
RMC signs provide direction in this remote area
Beta: Approximately 2.8 miles long, 2800 feet of elevation gain from Israel Ridge Path junction to Cornice junction.
Boulder scrambles and tunnels as you near the upper reaches of the ravine
The Castle Ravine trail provides a tour of the stunning and wild Castle Ravine, a glacial gulf sandwiched by Israel Ridge on the East and Castellated Ridge on the West. Both Mounts Jefferson and Adams are easily accessible from the terminus of this trail near Edmands Col, and the nearby RMC camps provide enticing options for shelter should one prefer to explore this area in a multi-day trip.
The head wall of the ravine is very exposed-know your weather forecast and always be prepared to turn back
Spectacular views abound as you begin to climb the head wall
Why: Castle Ravine is perhaps one of the least traveled cirques in the Presidentials. The impression of its remote and rugged persona is riveting to most any trekker and its envelopment by two gorgeous and rocky ridges creates a feeling of total immersion. The sound of rushing water is a near constant companion on this trail until you emerge at the base of the headwall and a series of miniature cascades adds charm. The headwall views are spectacular in every direction- Castellated Ridge, Mount Bowman, Israel Ridge, and the outlet of the ravine are all equally enchanting. This entire experience is a veritable feast for the senses.
Be prepared for several river crossings and hand over foot climbing over large boulders and talus on this challenging trail. Most often it is recommended for ascent rather than descent.
About The Author
Elizabeth Kane
Elizabeth’s love for the White Mountains is unparalleled. Despite working 40-50 hours/week, she manages to spend every spare minute in the Whites and her knowledge of the trail system is impressive. Her pup, Katahdin has likely logged more hours on the trails and tagged more summits than most do in their lifetime. On any given day, you can find Elizabeth hiking, trail running, fly fishing, climbing, mountain biking, or backpacking. She considers the White Mountains her home and we think that is pretty darn great! We are honored to have Elizabeth and Katahdin as NEM Ambassadors!
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Keeping Up With Elizabeth Kane
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