John Sherburne Ski Trail

Cut, forested ski trail (“Sherbie”) linking Tuckerman Ravine/Hermit Lake to Pinkham Notch. Standard egress after laps in the Ravine or Hillman’s; rolling pitches in tight trees with bench cuts and drainage features. Expect variable surfaces from wind transport up high to scraped, refrozen sections near the bottom.

Approach once parked: climb the Tuckerman Ravine Trail to Hermit Lake, then transition and descend the Sherburne back to the lot. Crossovers between the two trails are signed and numbered; use them as needed to manage traffic and snow quality.

Common hazards: open waterbars and thin cover early season, hard water ice, buried rocks/brush, and heavy downhill traffic. Snowmobile and rescue travel may occur. A recent MWAC incident noted a skier losing control after hitting a waterbar just above Crossover #7—keep speed in check and eyes up.

Best when there’s a supportive base with a fresh reset or spring softening; thin or wind-scoured periods ski poorly. Use the Tuckerman Ravine Trail for uphill and the Sherburne for downhill. Check the daily avalanche forecast and mountain hazards before committing to the Ravine, and adjust plans if coverage on the Sherburne degrades low down. More info: Mount Washington Avalanche Center.