Date Hiked: 11/18-11/19

Conditions: Saturday was an early start on the Stony Brook trail thru 4-8 inches of loose powder which became deeper and icier with elevation. Wind picked up at jctn of Carter-Moriah trail. Dropped packs to bag Moriah(nice views, a little icy); then on to N. Carter which challenged the capabilities of stabilicers( would have liked crampons for this section). The Carter Ridge was snow and ice covered with gusty wind, but we were warm enough with a slow and steady pace and 1 shirt/ 1 shell coverage. After Middle Carter, we met snowshoers going the opposite direction who had thankfully broken trail for us on the rest of the day. Topped Carter Dome just before sunset and descended to Carter Notch Hut with the assistance of head lamps. Be weary of Hut Tenders who were stingy with firewood....In any case, we rested well after Chef Jimmy prepped a full course gourmet meal in anticipation of our arrival. The following day was cool, but with calm winds. We summited the Wildcats with ease and excitement as we completed our 48th and then descended via ski trail to the Wildcat resort, hitchhiked to cars....A fantastic and rewarding finish. Thanks to Tim and Jim for the Great friendship, encouragement and growth we shared in this 2.5 year journey...

Special Required Equipment: at times crampons and snowshoes would have been nice, managed with stabilicers. flashlight or headlamp was def. needed for our late finish first day, full winter gear and clothing including emergency bivy reccomended.

Submitted by: Pearce the rockclinger