I should mention a trip some friends and I took a few weeks ago. We headed down to the Adironidack mountains in upstate New York hoping to see some spectacular fall foliage. However, what we got instead was Narnia-esque winter wonderland. Not that we complained. This picture below was typical of the scenery throughout the entire day.
The conditions were perfect for winter hiking. While it was icy and snowy, we were able to make it to the top of Wright Mountain, one of the 46er's in the Adirondacks. Here's a pic of G. near the summit. I wasn't able to make it up much further than the treeline due to cold, but G and T ventured on.
Now, this is the first of the 46's peaks that we successfully hiked. We made an attempt last year on Giant Mountain but were turned back by a nasty stream turned "raging torrent over a freaking 300ft waterfall". Sigh, I just realized that at this rate of one mountain per year, we'll have completed the 46's when I reach 75. Great.
On a side note, let me talk about pants. Yes, pants. During these types of hikes, moisture control, breathability and wind resistance are essential. Otherwise, you end up like a sweaty, soggy, wimpering mess (like I was once last year). In wet, cool conditions, hypothermia is a real possibilty, even in summer. That's why I can't recommend these pants enough. The MEC Ferrata Ultra pants look a bit dorky, but they performed very well during the winter hike. Highly recommended. They'll work great for cross-country skiing too.
3 comments:
Oh, wow! It looks beautiful. Cold, but beautiful :). It looks like you had a good time.
What are your Christmas travel plans?
Oh, I'll be doing the usual this Christmas - I'll be in Cowtown, chowing down on dim sum and Alberta beef. Yee haw! We'll have to meet up! It's been a while since I've seen you and your hubby.
Mmmmmm, G&T.
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