Hiking Newb Mt Washington

[Riot]

I’ve hiked plenty of local state parks, but CT isn’t exactly known for its elevation. That said, we’re planning a trip for Mt Washington this summer. My friend and his wife have done it a few times, so I’m not going in blind… but we’re also all very competitive and while we’re not racing, there’s doubt that a few of us will be able to do it without dying.
So, I guess I’m looking for advice and maybe some cheap, well maintained, gear if anyone has it.

I’ve been watching videos as well.

The plan is up Tuckerman’s Ravine and down Lion’s Head for a day hike.


Discuss!

[waffles2]

This is off topic slightly. Two years ago I went to the top of Mt Washington and hid "treasure" for a friend to find to following day. I happened to be traveling through the area for business; he lives in NYC but was headed to Mt Washington for a camping/hiking trip. We don't see each other often so this was a unique clash of our schedules. Well, long story short, he and his hiking group ate too much acid and never made it to the summit. This led to me ask the public to help remove the "treasure", now trash, from the summit...

https://www.bostonglobe.com/2022/09/02/metro/treasure-hunt-atop-mount-washington-with-twist/

[waffles2]

Paywall bypass: https://archive.is/20220906140619/ht...on-with-twist/

[Jonnydread]

It's a good hike, but it's nothing you aren't capable of. You don't really need gear outside of a backpack, water and good hiking boots. Make sure you bring layers, the peak is crazy in terms of temperature changes and weather. For those of the group who aren't in great shape, just make sure you take lots of breaks.

What else were you thinking you would need in terms of gear?

[Riot]

No no, our friend hasn’t stopped talking about how easy it will be for him, so, if he dies, he dies.

Also, Windbreaker seems like a must. Wool socks, rather than cotton, hiking poles, etc etc.

[cougar20th]

Something you will hopefully never need.

NH's hike safe program. If you decide to join you will not be liable for rescue costs if you should need that. Of course even with that they will charge you if you are negligent in being prepared for the hike. So read thru everything.

https://www.wildlife.nh.gov/get-outside/hiking-safety

Small price for a possible big savings should things go Fubar.

A example : The guy that recently got rescued off Mt Washington is looking at a potential $8K bill for the 12 hour rescue effort

[Riot]

I read that it was $12k and he’s just thankful to be alive. That’s the funny part of Washington. People literally die. Half the number of Everest deaths on Washington, then, half the people are like, “It’s no big deal. Just stay hydrated!”

[Riot]

Huh, this is coming up in less than a month and I am in the worst shape I’ve been in quite some time. Damn.

[Riot]

Uhh, this is in a week and I haven't moved more than 8000 steps in a day with little to no up hill.
Am I going to die?

[Mr. Hick]

Technically, that section of the whites has claimed the most lives on the east coast so the odds are not zero.

[Secretweaponevan]

I'd postpone and live another day.
Fake an injury.
Obtain a real injury if you have too much pride.