The south-facing Boulder Loop Trail, which makes a circuit over a low, ledgy spur of the Moat Range, is one of the first trails to melt out in the spring. Major relocations were made on the west part of the loop a couple of years ago and it was past time for a re-visit. The relocations add a half-mile to the distance, so the trail sign distances will be updated.
Boulders, ledges and cliffs abound on this trail.
Above the loop junction the trail ascends alongside this rock wall.
The first relocation passes by a new (to the trail) ledge viewpoint, looking across the Swift River valley to White Ledge.
This relocation ascends by easy-graded switchbacks through a conifer forest.
An outlook on the right, along the original trail, peers across a hardwood basin to the cliff viewpoint at the top of the trail.
Another angle from this viewpoint, with a spur known as Haystack in the background.
The second relocation provides an extended walk through a nice hardwood forest.
It makes a switchback beneath some neat ledges.
The third relocation, at the upper end of the loop, skirts along this angled rock face....
...and wraps around this giant hemlock. The three relocations add a lot of interest to the climb.
Sign at the top of the loop.
Don't miss the view spur at the top!
There are several ledges along the view spur with wide views SW to the Sandwich Range.
A closer look (L to R): Paugus, Whiteface, Passaconaway, Sleepers, Tripyramids, Scaur Peak.
Ossipee Range in the distance between White Ledge and Chocorua's horn.
A path continues beyond the official end of the spur and provides a view up to Middle and South Moat.
Closer in is a set of ledges on a spur above the Boulder Loop Trail - my next destination.
Bushwhacking up onto the spur.
Top of the ledges, looking across at Haystack.
A nice angle on White Ledge and Chocorua.
View to the south, with Green Mountain in Effingham on the horizon.
Bushwhacking across to another spur and one of my favorite off-trail view ledges.
This perch commands a sweeping vista across the Swift River valley to the Sandwich Range.
Bear Mountain looms to the NW beyond the Rainbow Slabs. On the far R are Mt. Tremont and Mt. Carrigain.
A great spot to hang out.
Starting a bushwhack loop down the ridge.
This hardwood basin was so inviting that I abandoned the ridge and headed down this way.
More rock formations.
Sweet spring whacking.
Hidden cliffs at the head of the basin.
Good bear tree.
Swirling clouds at the lower outlook along the trail.
