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Bringing it Together by mt98dew  Overview The White Mountain Trail System is currently a grouping of 14 loop trails, varying in length from 1 to almost 16 miles. In addition there are 10 trails designated as connector trails, that link some of these loops to each other. This trail is part of that system connecting the Springs Trail#633 to the Country Club Trail #632. Hike The Iron Horse Connector Trail (IH) actually starts about 50 yards north of the TH on the other side of the road. From the TH the Iron Horse is about 1.60 miles long. It goes in a east northeast direction. Once you cross the road you pass through a gate and see a sign for the IH Trail. The trail is well marked, having metallic blazes nailed to the trees. About every 0.25 mile one of the blazes will have initial of the trail to reassure you that you are still on the correct trail. (All White Mountain trails follow this methodology, using trail initials to confirm the trail you are on). The trail starts off deceptively nice as a single track winding its way through a thick grove of pine trees. However, this lasts for only about 0.35 miles. At this point it joins a dirt road, heading north, which it follows for the remaining 1.25 miles. Once the IH joins the road the trees become more sparse offering more "distant" views of the flat "pinescape" and also exposing you more to the elements of sun and rain. You'll notice that there is a fenced community off to the north of this track. However the trail never gets that close to the homes. At around the 0.9 mile mark, there is a fork in the road. Take the westward track. The trail is well marked so there should be no confusion. There will be a small incline with the last 0.2 miles, netting about 50ft. Almost all the elevation change occurs at this spot. At 1.6 miles the trail connects to the Country Club Trail. The trail conditions are typical for the region. The 0.35 mile single track is smooth (compact dirt) with isolated rocks and roots to keep you honest. The dirt road alternates from being relatively smooth to annoyingly rocky. The trail as a whole is nothing special, but it offers a nice connection from the Springs Loop Trail to the Country Club Loop Trail. Note There is no water or facilities at this TH so pack accordingly. Also, I indicated a preferred start of 8am. This region is known for its afternoon summer monsoons. Lightning is not uncommon. Any early start would be ideal to avoid potential inclement weather. Check out the Triplog. Gate Policy: If a gate is closed upon arrival, leave it closed after you go through. If it is open, leave it open. Leaving a closed gate open may put cattle in danger. Closing an open gate may cut them off from water. Please be respectful, leave gates as found. Leave No Trace and +Add a Triplog after your hike to support this local community.
One-Way Notice This hike is listed as One-Way. When hiking several trails on a single "hike", log it with a generic name that describes the hike. Then link the trails traveled, check out the example. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
