At 66, I felt a bit like the daddy of the climbing neighborhood after I hiked round Mont Blanc earlier this fall. However the Tour du Mont Blanc is doable for any fairly match hiker, and there have been loads of individuals on the path who had been older than me.
For complete novices like Shelley and me, it’s sensible to be proactive about well being and security. Listed below are some suggestions I discovered alongside the way in which:
Good boots, liner socks, slippery powder, and moleskin for tender pores and skin are important. We sort of turned gear geeks — investing in good day baggage (Osprey), woolen garments (socks, underwear, shirts), and nice climbing sneakers. I used to be by no means so grateful for a wool cap in Europe.
I used to be skeptical about plenty of “good concepts,” however two issues I ultimately appreciated had been a day by day baggie of path combine and my metallic water bottle. (I complained about its steep $40 price ticket…however quickly got here to acknowledge it was an incredible worth).
I have to say, if the climate turned unhealthy and it rained onerous, I feel a lot of the path would turn into no enjoyable in any respect. In truth, it might be harmful. Mountaineering poles are important, and even in good climate, I’d have been apprehensive a couple of stumble with out my very own trusty set.
Eat a stable breakfast. The in the future we had breakfast with no protein, climbing was harder.
Placed on sunscreen, even when the climate’s unhealthy.
After studying my lesson on different lengthy hikes, I made a decision to be spiritual about stretching on the Tour du Mont Blanc from the beginning. I had a routine of six stretches and hung out all through the day ensuring I didn’t tighten up. Crucial!
Don’t be a hero. If pores and skin is getting scorching, wrap it up. I did all the TMB hike with out a blister — after which simply obtained one on goal within the final two hours.
Good gear, sensible and proactive methods to remain wholesome, stretching, and taking it simple… all of it labored simply nice.
I’ll be sharing extra photographs, tales, and suggestions from Mont Blanc on the Nov. 29 version of Monday Night time Journey. Need to come alongside? Register now for this enjoyable — and free! — occasion.
