Not everyone likes winter hiking, especially early in the season before we get used to the energy-sapping cold, initially trickier terrain (this gets easier with snow), and heavier packs. It’s a tough transition. Couple that with overnight gear and it doesn’t get easier. Our suggestion is to ease in and keeping going. This can set the stage for developing more power — which will be noticed in the spring. That said, it’s subjective and if it’s simply not enjoyable, then you’ll be like most people who hike the Whites. They don’t prefer winter. The following words and photos from Redline Guide Debra McCown details a multi-day Zealand Notch and surrounds adventure where our guest is testing the waters, so to speak. Noting lots of smiles, by the way!
On one hand, she successfully hiked to the summit of Mt. Tom, a peak that just a few months ago seemed daunting. A big accomplishment!
On the other hand, she decided that the weather and trail conditions she encountered were not her cup of tea. On this trip, she determined that she doesn’t really like hiking 4000-footers in winter conditions — and she’d prefer to hike them in a different season.
Having previously participated in a women’s winter backpacking trip which they enjoyed, our guests hadn’t been worried about the cold. But the wind, precipitation, and more challenging terrain made a difference to their comfort level — even below treeline.
With more snow and wind in the forecast, they decided to end their backpacking trip a day early — and wait for better weather before bagging additional peaks. —Debra
