At 66, I felt a bit like the daddy of the mountaineering neighborhood after I hiked round Mont Blanc earlier this fall. However the Tour du Mont Blanc is doable for any moderately match hiker, and there have been loads of folks on the path who had been older than me.
For whole novices like Shelley and me, it’s clever to be proactive about well being and security. Listed below are some ideas I realized alongside the best way:
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 sneakers. I used to be by no means so grateful for a wool cap in Europe.
I used to be skeptical about a whole lot of “good concepts,” however two issues I ultimately appreciated had been a every 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 important worth).
I need to say, if the climate turned dangerous and it rained arduous, I believe a lot of the path would change into no enjoyable in any respect. Actually, it could be harmful. Climbing poles are important, and even in good climate, I might have been frightened a few stumble with out my very own trusty set.
Eat a strong breakfast. The in the future we had breakfast with no protein, climbing was harder.
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 scorching, wrap it up. I did the whole TMB hike with no blister — after which simply bought one on function 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 images, tales, and ideas from Mont Blanc on the Nov. 29 version of Monday Night time Journey. Wish to come alongside? Register now for this enjoyable — and free! — occasion.
