32 Scouts and 10 adults set off on the white dot trail on a Saturday in December to summit the most frequently climbed mountain in the world. The temperature as we set off on the climb was 25 degrees, so we had plenty of layers on. Wearing layers, and being able to add and subtract them as necessary, is one of the most important things for comfortable winter hiking and camping. When we had gone a mile we were warm enough that we stopped and took off at least our most outer layers, but by the time we reached the summit everyone had put everything back on since, the wind was about 30 mph and the wind chill factor made it feel like 9 degrees.
Being prepared for the weather was very important on this trip. To get up and down the icy trails more easily many scouts used some type of extra traction on their boots. Micro spikes worked the best, although some used yak trak pro (they tended to come off once in a while). The biggest challenge for some was keeping their feet warm. I’ve found that the best way to keep feet warm during winter hiking is to have properly fitting boots (not too tight) and to have two layers of socks on. The first layer of socks should be made of thin wicking-type material to keep moisture away from your feet (not cotton). The thicker second layer should be made of wool or merino wool (which is softer and less itchy) for warmth. It is very important to bring several pairs of extra socks, and to change your socks if they get wet.
Overall, everyone did great on the climb, and the weather was perfect for a winter day.
Mt.
Monadnock
was a great
winter hike and we will have to do it again in the future.
For photos from the trip, check out the Troop Photo Library.
