At 66, I felt a bit like the daddy of the mountaineering neighborhood once 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 folks on the path who have been older than me.
For whole 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 form of turned gear geeks — investing in good day baggage (Osprey), woolen garments (socks, underwear, shirts), and nice mountaineering footwear. I used to be by no means so grateful for a wool cap in Europe.
I used to be skeptical about a variety of “good concepts,” however two issues I ultimately appreciated have been a day by day baggie of path combine and my steel water bottle. (I complained about its steep $40 price ticket…however quickly got here to acknowledge it was an ideal worth).
I have to say, if the climate turned dangerous and it rained onerous, I feel a lot of the path would turn out to be no enjoyable in any respect. The truth is, it might be harmful. Climbing poles are important, and even in excellent climate, I’d have been anxious a few stumble with out my very own trusty set.
Eat a stable breakfast. The at some point we had breakfast with no protein, climbing was more durable.
Placed on sunscreen, even when the climate’s dangerous.
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. Essential!
Don’t be a hero. If pores and skin is getting sizzling, wrap it up. I did your complete TMB hike with out a blister — after which simply received one on objective 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 pictures, tales, and suggestions from Mont Blanc on the Nov. 29 version of Monday Evening Journey. Need to come alongside? Register now for this enjoyable — and free! — occasion.