At 66, I felt a bit like the daddy of the mountaineering group after I hiked round Mont Blanc earlier this fall. But the Tour du Mont Blanc is doable for any fairly match hiker, and there have been loads of individuals on the path who have been older than me.
For whole novices like Shelley and me, it’s clever to be proactive about well being and security. Here are some suggestions I realized alongside the best way:
Good boots, liner socks, slippery powder, and moleskin for tender pores and skin are important. We form 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 ideas,” however two issues I ultimately appreciated have been a each 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 have to say, if the climate turned unhealthy and it rained onerous, I feel a lot of the path would develop into no enjoyable in any respect. In truth, it could be harmful. Hiking poles are important, and even in good climate, I’d have been apprehensive 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.
Put 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. Very essential!
Don’t be a hero. If pores and skin is getting scorching, wrap it up. I did your complete TMB hike and not using a blister — after which simply obtained one on goal within the final two hours.
Good gear, good 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 suggestions from Mont Blanc on the Nov. 29 version of Monday Night Travel. Want to return alongside? Register now for this enjoyable — and free! — occasion.