At 66, I felt a bit like the daddy of the mountaineering group 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 individuals on the path who had been older than me.
For whole novices like Shelley and me, it’s smart 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 type of grew to become gear geeks — investing in good day luggage (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 had 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 awesome worth).
I need to say, if the climate turned unhealthy and it rained laborious, I believe a lot of the path would turn out to be no enjoyable in any respect. In truth, it will be harmful. Mountaineering poles are important, and even in good climate, I’d have been fearful 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 unhealthy.
After studying my lesson on different lengthy hikes, I made a decision to be non secular about stretching on the Tour du Mont Blanc from the beginning. I had a routine of six stretches and frolicked 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 your entire TMB hike with out a blister — after which simply acquired one on goal within the final two hours.
Good gear, good and proactive methods to remain wholesome, stretching, and taking it straightforward… 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.