I took a day off because my legs were unhappy with the postholes on Panther/Giant's Ledge.  I arrived bright and early for Blackhead and originally was going to go up between Blackhead and Black Dome and do it as an in and out.  I decided when I got to the first trail junction though that I would do it as a loop.  Heading up, there was a mix of bare trail and snow/ice until on the escarpment trail, just past the lean-to. From there to the top it was all hard packed to the top, and microspikes were needed.  There are a couple very steep and exposed sections that I almost switched to 12 point crampons on, but was able to get good traction with the spikes.  This whole way up, it was obvious someone the previous day bare booted it, and I don't know how the hell they got down.  I went across to the viewpoint, then across the peak to go down the "easier" way.  There is one steep spot, but this was less exposed than the way I came up.  shortly before I got to the junction to go down I started to post hole, so I put on the shoes until I got out.  Overall, beautiful day, but the snow was on its way out as it was getting soft.

3/4 winter 3500 hikes done.... only Balsam left to go, which was planned for yesterday, but will be done tomorrow.