Two couples from New York City reached out. One had some winter experience, and all were self-professed “slow hikers” who sometimes needed encouragement on exposed vertical segments — like many of us. They planned to be in the North Woodstock area and wanted to bag at least one 4000-footer in that general area each day over a two-day period. After discussing a few options — with guests and guides — it was decided to take on Mt Liberty (and maybe Flume) on day one, and Mt Garfield on day two, even though they knew the access road would be closed adding to the mileage. Leading these hikes were Redline Guides Chase Hall and Debra McCown, respectively.
Day 1: Mt Liberty with Chase
The mountains got their first winter snows which made them very photogenic. The rocks were covered and everywhere you looked was snowy. You don’t always get perfect weather in the Whites, but days like these make you want to return. The freshly coated trails made it a true winter wonderland. —Chase
Day 2: Mt Garfield with Debra
With ideal snow conditions, a well broken-out trail, temps well above zero with very little wind, and just the right amount of sprinkling snow, made the snow-covered forest feel like a winter wonderland. Our guests described the experience as ‘magical’ and ‘perfect’. —Debra
