At 66, I felt a bit like the daddy of the mountain climbing group 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 whole novices like Shelley and me, it’s clever to be proactive about well being and security. Listed below are some suggestions I discovered 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 mountain climbing 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 a terrific worth).
I have to say, if the climate turned unhealthy and it rained arduous, I feel a lot of the path would change into no enjoyable in any respect. In reality, it might be harmful. Mountain climbing poles are important, and even in good climate, I might have been anxious a few 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 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 objective 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 pictures, tales, and suggestions 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.
