Pumpelly Cave aka Megalithia 11/12/16
I had no plan to hike last Saturday do to a lazy spell.

I'd blown off Veterans Day which was
beautiful and I had off. Got up Saturday and forced myself to come up with something. First idea
something in the Belknaps. Which I found out later my good friend Bob did but neglected to invite
me.

And I did give him a heads up just before I headed out.

Plan 2 was Pillsbury State Park
Lovewell Mtn. But I remembered about Pumpelly Cave. It was something I wanted to check out after
reading 2 other reports here. This was the time to do it since I kind of knew where it was and what the
terrain might be like. This time of year is great for bushwhacking because all the undergrowth is dead
you can see where your stepping. Since I seem to be able to find everything there is to trip on
while bushwhacking. I threw my gear together and was off for Monadnock State Park by 8. Yes, on
a pretty nice Saturday.
My route for this hike was this...............................................................................
I got to the park at 10:15 and was on trail by 10:30. Timing is everything they say. And my timing was
perfect. The lots were packed. I have to say there were close to 3 dozen getting ready to head out.
Which included a boy scout troop. But I was ready and flew up the most popular trail without having to
pass a soul before I got to my turn. While I was doing my thing, I encountered 4 people.
Heading out.
On trail.
The prize!
I thought the place was pretty amazing. Given the fact that it was constructed in 1902 by
a couple of teens. I'm sure it's had some repairs over the years but it's survived pretty well
just the same. Had lunch at the cave, then finished the day checking out some views. I did
not summit Monadnock.
And as it turned out, my timing on my descent was perfect as well. I had to pass one small group and
encountered about 6 smalls groups ascending. Much better than I could have hoped.
Lastly, a quick stop here on Main Street in Jaffrey.
Other than it being quite windy and damned chilly in the open, a pretty great day!
