Hiking in the Winter

We shared a couple of videos of our guides and guests winter hiking above treeline in some fairly inclement winter weather. One was on Franconia Ridge and the other on Mt Washington. In these videos you can hear wind and there is obviously limited visibility. It was not an extremely cold day, nor was it exceptionally windy, but even in “mild” conditions we take this environment very seriously. That is the reason for this short post. We don’t want to carelessly or casually encourage people to head up into the mountains without a clear understanding of the epic on which they are about to embark. Consider these seven facts first (not shown in any particular order):

Seven Key Facts to Consider Before Heading Out in Winter

1. The guides shown in these clips are very experienced in these mountains and have been subjected to serious training both as guides and as Search and Rescue (SAR) volunteers. They are professionals.
2. These guides are very familiar with this terrain so are able to make sense of the unseen. They have been in these conditions several times and know how to conduct themselves. Again, they are pros.
3. They understand the weather, both current and what’s trending in the near future. They look at the weather and the gear carried with what we like to call a “24-Hour Concept.” Delays may occur and to prep is key.
4. They understand how to pack and actually deploy the gear they carry. For them it’s not about just carrying things because it’s expected or on some arbitrary lists of essential gear and clothing. There’s more to it.
5. They keep their head. To say it can be unnerving or even scary up there is a huge understatement. As professionals they know how to keep their emotions in check so as to think clearly and not overreact.
6. These guides have a clear understanding of the resources available to all hikers: current and forecast weather, avalanche potential, road and river-level statuses, trail/route and ground conditions, etc.
7. Consider hiring a guide from one on the many agencies in the Mt Washington Valley, including ours of course. This is a great way to know what you don’t know and get a jumpstart on learning… for starters.