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Hard Rane
WI4,
Ice, 130 ft (39 m),
Avg: 3 from 26
votes
FA: Dave Walters and Jeff Lea
New Hampshire
> NH Ice & Mixed
> Frankenstein Ice
> 3. Amphitheater Area
Access Issue: Avoid walking on the train tracks whenever possible.
Details
The Conway Scenic Railroad will be active in Crawford Notch this winter. It is critically important for climbers to avoid walking on the train tracks whenever possible. In an effort to minimize time spent on the tracks we are asking that you please take the Frankenstein Cliff Trail to the Amphitheater when climbing at Frankenstein, instead of walking on the tracks directly from the parking lot. Please do not leave packs, gear, or ropes on or near the rails, and avoid belaying near the tracks. Be prepared for trains to pass at any time, all winter.
The right of way for the railroad extends 50 feet on either side of the tracks, so while walking next to the tracks is likely safer, from the point of view of the railway it does not necessarily provide a solution. Ideally climbers should avoid being near the tracks whenever possible. We're requesting that climbers use alternative approach trails when it makes sense, such as in the case of the Frankenstein Cliff trail. If you do need to use the tracks, we want people to be aware of the situation, and to try not to spend excess time on them.
Description
Typically thin climbing up the smear left of Chia. The start is cruxy and difficult to protect, although the ice thickens the higher you climb. Find a good rest on a snow ramp (possible belay) before tackling a steeper column. Belay from trees. Walk off to the right of Chia.
Conditions vary year to year, the start will take stubbies now (1/16). This climb provides some good, thought provoking climbing. Worth the effort.
[Hide Photo] Hard Rain in its more typical conditions of "thin climbing up the smear left of Chia" ( 2/22/21, but also what it looked like a couple of year ago) Photo by J. Teduchi, posted with permission)
[Hide Photo] I believe this is someone's 64th bday climb. Lucky to have it come in this fat!
[Hide Photo] Top of Hard Rane in typical conditions, 2/7/23
[Hide Comment] Done it twice in two different yrs, both times thin, technical, almost mixed rock- ice, and looking nothing like the “fat” conditions in the photos! I posted a photo of the more typical thinness.
Feb 23, 2021
North Conway, NH
Sudbury MA / Lyndon VT