It was hot and muggy, visibility was poor and the blackflies were out enmass. A bad day on the Rockpile still beats a good day at work.

This trail was completely free and clear of ice whereas Tuck's is still closed from Hermit Lake to the Lip. We climbed in the heat, put up with the flies and had a brief shower before reaching the top of the ravine.

Our goal was the Alpine Garden, not the summit, and after the tough climb we strolled through the garden like we were at the Arborway in Cambridge. Many flowers were out and many more were ready to blossom. Beautiful.

Pictures and full trip report here:

http://ghostflowers.com/white_mtns40...gton62507.html

KDT