Walking in a Winter Wonderland

Okay I had a 100 reasons not to get up this morning to go hiking. It was cold, tired, cold, eat and drink too much last night, too early, and the list could continue. Finding reasons not to good is always easier than finding that one reason to get out there.

I managed to get myself in the car and go for an easy 4 mile hike. When I hit the trail at 7 am the temperature with wind chill was at 9 degrees. By the end of the hike it was a pleasant 13 degrees outside. Weverton Cliffs never disappoints. It is a great hike with some elevation, and is close to home.

I was happy that all my cold weather gear held up amazing well. Feet and fingers were toasted warm. The real surprise was my new hat from outdoor research. The fit was great. I have a big head and hats don't generally fit too well. No slippage around the ears and kept my head at a nice temperature. I will have to explore some of their other products. Anyone have good experiences with them?

Since I was the only one on the trial this earlier, I wondered if someone dragged a log or something to create a path? There seem to be a standard path width up to the overlook. You can see in the picture how even it is. Then when I continued up past the overlook, it was barely a trail.

The parking lot was empty expect for one truck which makes me wonder if someone was staying at Ed Garvey's Shelter. It would have been a very cold stay.

Only one other person was on the trail this morning. A trail runner was heading up as I was heading down. He was hustling in the snow and ice.

On other websites I see post about the TMB and that there still snow on the higher elevations in the summer time. If so this will be good training.

Also did I mention that it 2ill be 60 degrees this week so all this wonderful snow will be gone.

Even after coming up with a 100 reasons not to do it, the sunrise, the solitude, and the sheer beauty made it worth it.

Pack Lightly

Justjoe