Category: Hiking

Exploring Mt. Washington: Weather Risks and Safety Tips

January 15, 2025

Today’s Weather On Mt. Washington Summit

  • Wind Speed 51 mph
  • Temperature -5.6 F
  • Wind Chill Temperature -39F

The Presidential Range is a mountain range located in the White Mountains in New Hampshire. Named for President George Washington, Mt. Washington is the tallest peak. It is known for its’ record-breaking wind speed.

Standing at an elevation of 6,289 ft. , Mt. Washington is considered one of the most treacherous mountains in the United States. The mountain is notorious for unpredictable and inclement weather.

If you’re planning to venture up Mt. Washington, be very prepared for what you’ll encounter on your journey.

The Importance of Wind Chill

Wind chill is how cold the outdoor temperature feels when the wind speed is factored in. At the base of the mountain the temperature may be 40 degrees F. As you increase elevation the wind speed increases and the temperature will feel colder.

Fatalities on Mt. Washington

There have been 176 known fatalities and missing persons within the Presidential Range, many of them were over 50 years old.

Links To Summit Weather and Wind Chill Calculator

Mt. Washington Observatory Current Summit Conditions www.mtwashington.org

Wind Chill Calculator www.weather.gov

Weight Vests and Joint Health: What You Need to Know

August 30, 2024

There are benefits and drawbacks to wearing a weighted vest during hiking, running or walking.

Keep in mind that aging is about wear and tear. As we get older, we want to take care of our muscles, bones, ligaments and tendons, being mindful that all body parts are working properly and are free of pain.

When you wear a weighted vest, or carry dumbbells during hiking, walking or running, you’re placing an extra load on your hips and knees. This may lead to joint pain or possible long-term damage.

If you’re over 50 and your knees and hips don’t bother you, consider the physical downside to adding weight to your cardio workouts before you set out on your hike, walk or run.

Read more about this subject by clicking the link below.

Hiking With A Weighted Vest: Does It Actually Work – HikersDaily.com

Essential Tips for Hiking in Extreme Heat

July 23, 2024

If you’re planning a hiking trip into the deserts of Arizona, Utah, California, Colorado or Nevada, prepare yourself for extreme heat. Knowing the symptoms of heat exhaustion and heatstroke can save your life.

Both conditions are avoidable provided you remain well-hydrated before and during your hike. Start your hike early before the sun comes up. Take short, slow hikes to maintain a consistent level of energy, and carry sufficient water for the duration of your trip.

Symptoms of Heat Exhaustion

  • Lack of sweat
  • Red, hot and dry skin
  • Muscle weakness or cramps
  • Dizziness or fainting
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Lightheaded
  • Rapid heartbeat
  • Rapid, shallow breathing
  • Throbbing headache

Heat exhaustion can lead to heatstroke, a life-threatening condition.

Symptoms of Heatstroke

  • Confusion
  • Hot, dry skin
  • A temperature of 104 degrees or higher
  • Racing heartbeat
  • Agitation
  • Slurred speech
  • Seizure
  • Lost of consciousness
  • Coma

Extreme Heat Hiking Risks: Recent Tragedies in Utah and Arizona

July 23, 2024

Three hikers died during June and July, 2024 while traversing trails in Utah and Arizona during extreme heat. A 50-year-old man from Texas died July 7 while attempting to reach the South Rim of the Grand Canyon National Park in Arizona, where temperatures are known to reach 120 degrees. In June a 69-year-old man collapsed and died while hiking the Grand Canyon.

A 52 year-old father died while hiking with his 23 year-old daughter after getting lost and running out of water on the Syncline Loop in Canyonlands National Park in Utah. Temperatures reached over 100 degrees. During the weekend of July 20th a 56 year-old woman died after running out of water while hiking in Utah in scorching heat.

Recognize the signs of heat exhaustion and heatstroke.

Read the news articles here from APNews.com and The Guardian.com

Preventable Winter Hiking Death: Crystal Gonzalez 56

January 28, 2023

Inside Edition reports on this fatal hiking accident of January 8, 2023. Crystal Gonzalez 56, recorded a video of herself as she climbed the icy slopes of Mt. Baldy, California. The video cuts off as the hiker lost her balance and slid 700 feet down the mountain where she succumbed to severe injuries. Ms. Gonzalez had 4 children.

There are over 400 comments worth reading on this You Tube video, with locals discussing their experience on Mt. Baldy.

Winter mountain equipment such as an ice axe, helmet and crampons are helpful when traversing ice, but it’s probably best to find less threatening conditions, or to stay home and avoid taking the risk. No trail is worth your life.