Welcome, guest [login | register]

Posted by rambler on December 23, 2007 at 7:43:05 pm EST
In reply to Climbing Mt. Mitchell North Carolina Xmas... posted by Sigsterrr on December 15, 2007 at 4:23:43 pm EST

In the cold and snow and less daylight, everything takes longer to do than in the summer. Plan the daily mileage with that in mind. I do not think you need both a head lamp and a flashlight. Take the head lamp. My hiking career began at Mt. Mitchell 40 years ago! Carry your water bottles upside down in freezing weather. Water freezes near the top first!. So, let the top be the bottom! Ask about a "paste" to help your Coleman stove start in the cold. A thin liner glover and a shell is all you need as you hike. Warmer mittens will be useful in camp. Keep you liner gloves on all the time. Do not let your body overheat,or sweat as you hike. Take layers off if you start to sweat. Start out cold and you should be fine. Sweat will freeze when you stop, so try to avoid sweating. You might even be hiking in short sleeves when it is below freezing, especially if you are hiking up hill. One way to keep from overheating is to slow down your pace. Do this about 10 or 20 minutes before you plan to stop for the day. That way you will stay warmer when you stop. If it is just cold and not windy, keep the door of your tent open to avoid condensation. In fact, try sleeping outside of your tent to gain some confidence in your sleeping bag. Use lithium batteries in your digital camera. They stand up to the cold. Enjoy your hike and you will not have "failed" if you do not reach the summit. It will always be there for another day.

Replies

View: flat | threaded

There have been no replies

Post a Reply

Before replying, please read the complete thread.