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R3l@x
06-02-2019, 09:30
2019 Great Pumpkin Hang

Sign Up Sheet (https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1arhx5G22IjlId8BywzPmQ8AktvFn6Z-dKNKthd0Lw8Q/edit?usp=sharing)

Camp Location (https://www.google.com/maps/place/M46F%2BQ5/@43.6619414,-71.8792512,809m/data=!3m1!1e3!4m5!3m4!1s0x0:0x0!8m2!3d43.6619375!4 d-71.8770625)

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS for ALEXANDRIALAND. Please read this FAQ before posting any questions.

Here is the 2018 thread for reference information (https://www.hammockforums.net/forum/showthread.php/146018-NH-gt-Alexandria-NH-gt-Oct-19-21-2018-gt-Great-Pumpkin-Hang)

FAQ

Quick important points-
-Text (603) 727-4329 to reach the Lebsacks.
-Everyone is welcome, the more the merrier.
-Try not to bring glass.
-Do Not bring firewood.
-All poop goes in the trash by the outhouse.
-All food waste needs to go in the trash.
-This is the wilderness and the wilderness is dangerous.
-Everything is at your own risk, be smart.

Alexandrialand - Hi! We’re the Lebsacks. Eliot and I (Cindy) own 270 acres of beautiful forest in Alexandria, NH in between Cardigan Mountain and Newfound Lake. We have a camp for our family by a mountain stream way out in the middle of the wilderness. The Cardigan Mountain AMC trail system crosses the property and we also abut Welton Falls State Forest. There are plenty of close interesting things to hike to, especially if you can handle a little bushwacking. There are no buildings on the land, just a fifth wheel camper for our family and an outhouse.

Hanging - People usually hang in the hemlock trees near where we do the campfire and food. The old growth areas have very little underbrush. Some people hang further off on their own or closer to the parking. Really, you have 270 acres of trees to choose from, so you can find whatever your heart desires.

Weather -The land is a higher altitude than the surrounding area, so it tends to have its own microclimate and be 10 degrees colder than the forecast. Late October can be like a winter hang some years. If anyone wakes up really cold you always could bail to our fifth wheel which will be heated. You might not get much more than floorspace, but you won't freeze.

Access - Camp is one mile up a one lane dirt logging road. Pretty good shape, but there are some loose rocks, steep spots, and puddles. An adventurous Prius can make it fine. As far as I know, there isn't any logging going on now, but if there is, logging trucks going downhill always have the right of way even if that means you have to back up.

Parking - Parking is maybe 200 yards from where we set up and there is a wheelbarrow available if anyone needs it. We probably will open up some extra parking further up the hill too. If you don’t want to drive up the mile logging road you can park on the street. - Please do not drive down to the camper, this is a walking path.

Toilet - We have a large shed for privacy that has a standard ceramic toilet. We use a plastic bag system and we pack out the solids for you. We provide individual bags and cat litter and toilet paper and a big trash bin outside for everyone to throw their bags into. We empty the bin every 6 hours or so, so the smell isn’t a problem. It sounds complicated, but it is clean, simple, and you never need to see or smell anyone's poo but your own. We prefer if people mostly pee in the woods away from camp, but the bags and cat litter can be used for that if necessary. If anyone has more questions about this topic just ask, I know facilities are a hangup for many people and I wouldn't want some people to not come from not understanding what this system is. It is way less gross than a pit toilet or portapotty.

Water - Bring what you need for drinking. People usually have extra. We camp by a mountain stream, but there is a beaver pond upstream, so assume it has Giardia or whatever in it.

Dogs - It is ok to bring dogs, but please use your best judgement. We will probably have our two dogs there some of the time. People will have a lot of things that they really don't want pee on, there will be food out, lots of wildlife and possibly hunters in the woods.

Food - We do a lot of potluck meals and shared cooking. Some people stick to their own stuff and there is usually lots extra. Everything is very relaxed and friendly, so do what you prefer.

Alcohol - drink responsibility. There will be kids and dangerous things around. Please try to avoid glass bottles as much as possible since there is a ton of exposed granite and barefoot people.

Trash - We will have trash bins and will pack out the garbage. It’s great if you can keep waste to a minimum, but we expect a lot with the size of the crowd we usually get.

Firewood - Due to invasive species that like to eat our nice trees, we ask that you do not bring wood. We will have plenty of wood on hand and always appreciate some help processing logs into manageable firewood.

Wildlife - There are moose, bears, deer, coyote, foxes, mink, owls, bobcats and anything else that you find in the NH wilderness. Nothing but mice are acclimated to people so far and we would like to keep it that way. You don’t have to worry about bear proofing overnight as these ones do not associate humans with food and will steer clear of camp, but please help us keep it that way by not disposing of any food in the woods.

Activities - We’ll have lots of things going on. There are always small hikes and informal lessons on bushcraft topics. Cooking is a serious endeavor for some and we will have a few games around the campfire. Some people usually organize longer hikes depending on weather. Just ask around and we can point you to something your speed.

Guns - Although we have a shooting range set up, please no shooting at the hang. There are just too many people, pets and kids to keep track of.

Electricity - Nope. We have a small generator that we can run in an emergency.

Cell Service - Very spotty. You can count on not being able to make a call out, but many phones can send and receive sporadic texts depending on where you are standing. Expect cell phone batteries to drain very quickly unless they are on airplane mode. They use lots of juice trying to reach the towers. There is a 3G antenna and booster in the camper that works for some phones. There is a hill you can climb for a reliable 4G signal, but it's a hike. Texting (603) 727-4329 (Cindy's cell) is the most reliable emergency contact to give people if you aren't sure your phone will work.

Handicap Access - This is the rough forest and as such we are not very accessible. If you have special needs, please contact us so we can work together to try to accommodate you.

Directions

Our land is 15 miles from RT 93 exit 23 (mile marker 68) and that takes about 30 minutes to drive.

If you set your GPS to Cream Hill Rd, Alexandria, NH it might get you there, but check the directions. The way is simple, mostly straight and bearing right at forks, but people tend to get lost and GPS sometimes sends you on roads that are glorified cow paths. I tried to add a lot of details and landmarks so you know you are on the right track.

After the lake there are signs for "fresh eggs" with a chicken stencil that point the way. I will post little orange arrows with "HH" for "Hammock Hang" on them.

Cream Hill is a little dead end street. The entrance to the logging road is right where Cream Hill Road starts.

-Exit 23 off 93

-Left at end of ramp onto 104W /132S

-In 1 mi Continue Straight on 104W

-In 5 miles at light Continue Straight on to Lake St 3A North

-In 2 mi turn Left on West Shore road at blinking yellow light

-In 2 mi Continue Straight on Cartigan Mountain Rd

-In .5 mi Continue Straight onto Fowler River Rd

-In 1 mi Bear Right at fork (fresh eggs sign)

-In 3 mi Bear Right on Welton Falls Rd

-In .7 miles Bear Right at fork where you see campers and mailboxes

-Cross e2 bridge

-Pass Fowler River Cutting

-Pass Pitman Cemetery on left

-In .2 miles Logging Rd is straight in front of you at the Cream Hill Rd sign, Cream Hill Rd curves sharply to Right

-go Straight on logging road over the little bridge, then 1 mi up the hill.

Camper is down to the Left past yellow chain with "private" sign. Additional parking is up to the Right through gate labeled "hikers welcome"

- Please do not drive down to the camper, this is a walking path. We should have a wheel barrow to help with transporting gear at the camper.

somniferous
06-02-2019, 20:07
Awesome, I'll be there.

tollermama
06-02-2019, 20:17
I am in!!!! Thanks Reason and Relax

attroll
06-04-2019, 09:33
I am not sure if we are in on this weekend yet. We have a lot going on this weekend. It's a three day weekend because of the holiday. There is a big Appalachian Trail get together in MA this weekend. Then it is also my birthday. Sorry but it is not looking good at this time.

Dutchette
06-05-2019, 07:30
Alex and I are so excited as this is our favorite hang of. the. year. <3 Thank you for hosting this incredible event.
#burnallthepumpkins

gogrillz
06-05-2019, 15:18
Excellent! Thanks John, Cindy, Elliott.

R3l@x
06-07-2019, 20:40
Stoked that many of the regulars are going. Can't wait to see everyone, eat some good food and hang out around the fire!

tollermama
06-11-2019, 08:09
Still trying to convince Dan this is better Than the L and L hang, but he does not believe me. He is an ocean guy and I am a mountain girl.

Billiard Pete
06-12-2019, 09:08
Don't think I will be making it this year due to scheduling.

brazilianguy
06-20-2019, 15:51
Im going to miss it! :( :( :( :(
I live in Seattle now
burn a pumpkin for me!

R3l@x
06-21-2019, 11:16
Don't think I will be making it this year due to scheduling.
Bummer, maybe next year..

Im going to miss it! :( :( :( :(
I live in Seattle now
burn a pumpkin for me!

Come on. I thought you picked up a van to drive to these :D

~Reason~
09-03-2019, 18:48
OMG, this is getting close! Anyone else excited?

R3l@x
09-04-2019, 20:22
OMG, this is getting close! Anyone else excited?

I can't wait to come up. It should be after my business trips this year so no having to leave at 4 am this time :) I think I'll have a couple new people joining me to check things out.

tollermama
09-05-2019, 10:54
OMG, this is getting close! Anyone else excited?

Totally excited, especially since I can't make the L and L hang, I hurt my shoulder. It should be better by the GPH. I can't wait to see you again, and so looking forward to the beauty of your property, fun hikes, and great conversations.

MAD777
09-05-2019, 17:09
What? Wait? tollermama isn't allowed to miss L&L.... No excuses!
Be there or be square, LOL.

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Dutchette
09-06-2019, 08:54
Totally excited, especially since I can't make the L and L hang, I hurt my shoulder. It should be better by the GPH. I can't wait to see you again, and so looking forward to the beauty of your property, fun hikes, and great conversations.

YES!! I've been super sad about missing L&L, but this event rocks with all the hiking and wicked awesome people. <3 <3 Hoping your shoulder feels much much better by then. Remind me not to give you a crippling bear hug when I see you. :D

tollermama
09-06-2019, 08:54
What? Wait? tollermama isn't allowed to miss L&L.... No excuses!
Be there or be square, LOL.

Sent from my Pixel 2 using Tapatalk

I guess I am square. I hope to at least see you at the Fall hang or GPH. You can't miss GPH it is the best hang of the year in my opinion. Hope your house is all finished.

tollermama
09-06-2019, 08:56
YES!! I've been super sad about missing L&L, but this event rocks just a little bit more. <3 <3 Hoping your shoulder feels much much better by then. Remind me not to give you a crippling bear hug when I see you. :D


You can bear hug me! Good to know you will be at GPH! Can't wait to see you Alex and Lincoln!

shrineclown
09-12-2019, 01:16
Will try to make at least an appearance., Have missed everyone....schedule is still kid crazy.

When did youth sports become 365, and who thought that was a great idea?

R3l@x
09-16-2019, 22:25
I have a couple friends joining me this year and they mentioned doing a day trip to White Mountain Oktoberfest (https://www.loonmtn.com/events/oktoberfest). Thought I would mention it in case anyone else wants to add it to their plans for the weekend.

R3l@x
09-16-2019, 22:39
Will try to make at least an appearance., Have missed everyone....schedule is still kid crazy.

When did youth sports become 365, and who thought that was a great idea?

Sir, Looking forward to seeing you again. Hope you can stop up and stay for a while.

Dutchette
09-20-2019, 13:41
20 Days til Alex and I leave for the GPH. Not that I'm excited or anything. Just sayin'. ;)

tollermama
09-21-2019, 07:07
are people staying over Sunday night into Monday?

somniferous
09-21-2019, 20:33
are people staying over Sunday night into Monday?

Haven't thought of staying into Monday, but I'm thinking of getting up there on Thursday instead of Friday.

Dutchette
09-23-2019, 08:56
Haven't thought of staying into Monday, but I'm thinking of getting up there on Thursday instead of Friday.

We are leaving PA on Thursday, but most likely have to be back to work on Monday. If only we could be up there for a week... LOL Still counting down the days. <3

R3l@x
09-23-2019, 20:47
We are leaving PA on Thursday, but most likely have to be back to work on Monday. If only we could be up there for a week... LOL Still counting down the days. <3

If only I could be up there for a month or two... :)

Dutchette
09-24-2019, 08:13
If only I could be up there for a month or two... :)

With as busy as you are, you NEED to be there for a month or two. <3 Be safe, be well John. See you real soon!!!!

tollermama
09-25-2019, 07:32
HI folks, is anyone interested in doing a longer hike? I want to actually climb Mount Cardigan as I never have and it is on my 50 Finest list. Anyone want to join me on that?

Dutchette
09-25-2019, 09:37
HI folks, is anyone interested in doing a longer hike? I want to actually climb Mount Cardigan as I never have and it is on my 50 Finest list. Anyone want to join me on that?

Ooooo, yes please. Do you have a day in mind? Alex and I were talking about visiting Oktober fest on Sunday, but we'd be free on Saturday. :)

Dutchette
09-25-2019, 15:02
White Mountain Oktoberfest (https://www.loonmtn.com/events/oktoberfest). Thought I would mention it in case anyone else wants to add it to their plans for the weekend.

Which day are you going? :D We bought tickets for Sunday.

tollermama
09-26-2019, 21:08
Which day are you going? :D We bought tickets for Sunday.

Where is the Oktoberfest? I would be interested in going if not too far away. I was planning on hiking on Friday or Saturday.

AIP1313
09-27-2019, 05:10
Where is the Oktoberfest? I would be interested in going if not too far away. I was planning on hiking on Friday or Saturday.

White Mountain Oktoberfest is at Loon Mountain, if you're in Alexandria it's just about an hour away.

Dutchette
09-27-2019, 07:52
Where is the Oktoberfest? I would be interested in going if not too far away. I was planning on hiking on Friday or Saturday.

Yes, you're right. It's an hour North toward the heart of the Whites. [blink blink - beautiful] It was John's idea to go so we are bumming off his findings and it'd be fun if you could come too, darling. The more the merrier...then add beer and LOOK OUT. ;)

tollermama
09-29-2019, 15:56
Yes, you're right. It's an hour North toward the heart of the Whites. [blink blink - beautiful] It was John's idea to go so we are bumming off his findings and it'd be fun if you could come too, darling. The more the merrier...then add beer and LOOK OUT. ;)

OH, I know Loon mountain well. Actually a couple years ago we hiked up there to do one of the 100 highest (a bush whack) and the festival was happening, we caught the end of it. I was some bummed we did not have time to spend there. Unfortunately I don't have the Monday off for Columbus Day. Are you guys staying up there somewhere close? If so maybe I could get Monday off and have some more fun with you guys!

Dutchette
09-30-2019, 06:22
Unfortunately I don't have the Monday off for Columbus Day. Are you guys staying up there somewhere close? If so maybe I could get Monday off and have some more fun with you guys!

Bushwhacking is exhausting! Haha. You’re amazing! We are going to play it by ear and either will stay back at Cindy and Elliot’s or car camp. We are working out details on picking up one of my friends who is doing her first solo for 10 days. Anyway, we will make a decision on Sunday AM to either pack up or keep camp. You are always welcome to chill. [emoji3590][emoji3059][emoji3590]. I think R3l@x was gonna go to the fest as well. [emoji1319]


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somniferous
09-30-2019, 23:36
Is anyone planning on staying thru Monday? Seems like that will be our only option if we want to sneak in another day in the woods.

R3l@x
10-07-2019, 09:38
Is anyone planning on staying thru Monday? Seems like that will be our only option if we want to sneak in another day in the woods.

I'm going to look at Monday off but not sure if it's doable.

Dutchette
10-07-2019, 14:21
Is anyone planning on staying thru Monday? Seems like that will be our only option if we want to sneak in another day in the woods.

Alex and I may stay another night, pending on how wonderful Oktoberfest is. ;)

JoshuaTrees
10-08-2019, 08:18
How's the road looking these days?

~Reason~
10-08-2019, 08:48
Road is really good but there are those four speedbumps that you have to really slow down for or you'll mess up your car. I'll mark them somehow.

There is a little logging, so our regular spot is more muddy than normal. And there is a bridge across the stream. Be sure to wear good boots. There's a small chance we'll decide to have things a little upstream if the ground is really churned up.

I'm going to try to get up there Thursday morning and scout it all out.

JoshuaTrees
10-08-2019, 11:32
Awesome, sounds like as long as I take it slow, I should be ok. Looking forward to heading up. Haven't been there in quite a while now.

atrane21
10-08-2019, 15:43
Road is really good but there are those four speedbumps that you have to really slow down for or you'll mess up your car. I'll mark them somehow.

There is a little logging, so our regular spot is more muddy than normal. And there is a bridge across the stream. Be sure to wear good boots. There's a small chance we'll decide to have things a little upstream if the ground is really churned up.

I'm going to try to get up there Thursday morning and scout it all out.Could we move it up near the canvas tent you had there last year?? That spot was beautiful.

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atrane21
10-08-2019, 15:44
Awesome, sounds like as long as I take it slow, I should be ok. Looking forward to heading up. Haven't been there in quite a while now.Stoked to see you!! Its been forever!

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tollermama
10-08-2019, 16:55
Could we move it up near the canvas tent you had there last year?? That spot was beautiful.

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I don't remember seeing that canvas tent. Is it along the stream? I really like hanging by the stream.

atrane21
10-08-2019, 16:58
I don't remember seeing that canvas tent. Is it along the stream? I really like hanging by the stream.Yes. Further up on the other side of the bridge though.

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tollermama
10-08-2019, 17:29
Yes. Further up on the other side of the bridge though.

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oh joy! That means no steep long hill to schlep our stuff down?

~Reason~
10-08-2019, 22:06
We could defo do that and camp around there, but farther to the outhouse. We'll scope it out Thursday or Friday.

Dutchette
10-09-2019, 09:53
oh joy! That means no steep long hill to schlep our stuff down?

It may be a different type of schlep. LOL It will be different and super fun, no matter what. <3

Focus, Kristal.
must.
contain.
excitement

R3l@x
10-09-2019, 11:43
Looks like we have the typical chance of showers through the weekend so it could be clear skies or major storms :) I'm bringing a pop up, if anyone else has one it might come in handy.

~Reason~
10-09-2019, 15:27
We should go set up at the caves, lol

tollermama
10-09-2019, 15:53
I will bring my ez up. I think a big tarp would be good so we can set it up over the fire. Anyone have a big one? Or maybe we can string several overlapping. I am going to be there come hell or high water, or "cold rain and snow".

Cindy, what time do you think you will be up there on Friday? I will likely be there early so I may need some direction, but I don't want to get too early if that is not convenient for you.

JoshuaTrees
10-09-2019, 16:34
Stoked to see you!! Its been forever!

Sent from my SM-N975U using TapatalkSame!! It's been too long man.

Lateralus
10-09-2019, 18:05
I’ll be coming up on Friday. Hoping to bang out of work a few hours early. I went in 2016 and very excited to make it back this year!

-Dan

R3l@x
10-09-2019, 18:09
I will bring my ez up. I think a big tarp would be good so we can set it up over the fire. Anyone have a big one? Or maybe we can string several overlapping. I am going to be there come hell or high water, or "cold rain and snow".

Cindy, what time do you think you will be up there on Friday? I will likely be there early so I may need some direction, but I don't want to get too early if that is not convenient for you.
Don't forget to download maps of the area in Google maps before you leave. Cell is spotty once you get past the last town.


Same!! It's been too long man.
It has been far to long, looking forward to hanging with you again sir.

tollermama
10-09-2019, 19:00
[QUOTE=R3l@x;1991219]Don't forget to download maps of the area in Google maps before you leave. Cell is spotty once you get past the last town.

I don't mean directions to the hang. I know how to get there. I meant direction as to where we will actually set up camp as Cindy is talking about moving it upstream since there is logging at the regular site. I don't want to schlep my stuff around twice if I set up in the wrong area if we are going to move!

~Reason~
10-09-2019, 19:20
I should be there by 9am if all goes as planned

R3l@x
10-10-2019, 15:39
Because of the mud going down to the camper and getting to our regular hammock area we’ve decided to use the area over the bridge.
Continue to drive straight until you reach the bridge. Everyone can drop off their EZ ups and cooking gear and then park along the road or in the upper section. We just need to make sure we don’t block any of the roads including in the upper parking area.
We’ll be hanging on both sides of the road anywhere you want.

tollermama
10-10-2019, 20:48
We’ll be hanging on both sides of the road anywhere you want.

Does that mean we will not be hanging by the stream? I am trying to envision this. Once we are over the bridge, where will we set up camp? Just over the bridge or down by the stream? confused here.

~Reason~
10-10-2019, 20:52
The stream is right there. It's actually a nicer view from where the campfire is this time

shrineclown
10-10-2019, 20:52
Gaffed again, I have to work. Hope you all have a great time.

tollermama
10-10-2019, 21:00
The stream is right there. It's actually a nicer view from where the campfire is this time

Thanks, so it is not a long walk to set up the kitchen area then? See you tomorrow, I am quite psyched to see you and catch up with a whole years' worth of your new job tales.

~Reason~
10-10-2019, 21:02
It's going to be a great weekend. The color is incredible and I don't think we're going to get as much rain as they were saying earlier, just a chance on Saturday

somniferous
10-10-2019, 23:04
Hoping to be there around 1-2pm tomorrow. Can’t wait.!

Flash Grundelore
10-11-2019, 06:57
Here's hoping you guys have a wonderful time... I'll miss you all and the colors. We haven't hit a low enough temp yet to trigger the change.
Wish I was gonna be there to make the dessert crack

hikerfast
10-11-2019, 08:20
on sunday a group of hiking friends plan to hike at 10:30 am. its a short drive over to the amc lodge. probably go up firescrew with option for summit. it would be great if anyone wanted to join. i was going to have them come park up near the hang but i think they might have trouble finding it. hopefully saturday we can do a hike up to firescrew or do the loop over oregon mountain and mowglis

JoshuaTrees
10-11-2019, 09:25
Heading up now. Weather is miserable down here can't wait to get up there. Anybody interested in a hike tomorrow?

Fizzbee
10-11-2019, 09:54
Frank and I are on our way now! We should be there by 12:30-1:00.

~Reason~
10-11-2019, 12:41
It's 1.6 mile really easy hike from the lodge to where we are set up with the fire pit and every. Back 80 trail

~Reason~
10-11-2019, 12:42
And anyone who was confused, it's not at the bridge at the bottom of the hill by the road, it is the bridge a little past our normal spot

dandv
10-13-2019, 16:22
Thank you Elliott and Cindy for hosting again. Good turnout, those that couldn’t be there were missed. Good food( as usual) good weather, and good company.

R3l@x
10-13-2019, 16:27
Thank you Cindy and Eliot for having us back. I've started a trip report thread here (https://www.hammockforums.net/forum/showthread.php/155962-NH-gt-Alexandria-NH-gt-Oct-11-13-2019-gt-Great-Pumpkin-Hang) for everyone to post to.

Flash Grundelore
11-28-2019, 18:52
Missed the hang, and missing you all, but I thought that I might reassure you that I did indeed make the pumpkin crack for Thanksgiving.
I am happy to report that it was just as successful as it has been at Alexandria.
Happy holidays, and happy hanging

tollermama
11-28-2019, 21:33
Missed the hang, and missing you all, but I thought that I might reassure you that I did indeed make the pumpkin crack for Thanksgiving.
I am happy to report that it was just as successful as it has been at Alexandria.
Happy holidays, and happy hanging

Same to you Ted.