BRACE MOUNTAIN South Taconic Range xc ski



Feb 25, 2008 - MT. BRACE from Mt. Washington State Forest HQ in SW Mass. Average of 6" dense powder with little base - a bit more in woods & N facing slopes, less in the open & S facing slopes; fair to good skiing, quite a few exposed rocks especially on steeper hills, tricky stream crossings.  Started on the trail to Alander Mt. & soon took a L on Ashley Hill trail high up Ashley Hill Brook ravine.  Trail is wide old carriage road.  AH trail turns L & we continue straight ahead.  Cross AHB & climb up to the S Taconic Trail.  Views open up as we headed S to Brace & its huge cairn.  Wonderful views in all directions from the open summit, Catskills off to the W.  Mostly intermediate with a couple of steep spots.  700' gain from start, 850' from low point.  9.5 miles, 4.8 hrs. 







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