Snow hike

 

After a snow storm, I finally hiked today from Mount Marshall Road, then turn left to the Bluff Trail in 5-6 inches of snow for 13 miles with 2200 feet elevation gain. It was very tiring to wear micro spikes walking in snow. The winter boots are lb heavier, the micro spikes add 0.75 lb, plus snow caught on the spikes (~ 2lb extra on my feet for each step). Most of us were tired and skipped Big Devil.

Some of us stopped by the winery after hike. I bought a lot groceries for the snow coming on Sunday and a subsequent very cold week.

I lived in Boston for 6 years but acclimated myself to Washington DC. We haven't had much snow for a few years, so I am used to warm weather and non-snow hikes. Comparing with West coast, we have almost no natural catastrophe (much safer and better for my peace of mind).

New year hike

 

On this new year day, I simply forgot how rocky Buzzard rock trail to Sherman Gap was, thus unintentionally hiked with some friends today for 12.8 miles with about 2,800 feet elevation gain in 20 miles per hour wind!!! I felt that the gusts could blow me off the ridges several times!!!

I am listing this hike in my not to hike list. I hate rocks.