30.9 Mile Winter Pemi Adventure

Distance: 30.9 miles
Elevation Gain: ~8,000 and change
Trails Used: Zealand Road, Hale Brook, Lend a Hand, Twinway, Bondcliff, West Bond Spur, North Twin Spur, Frost, Gale River, Haystack Road

This past Saturday I completed my longest winter hike to date: a 30 mile traverse (of sorts) across the northern boundary of the Pemigewasset Wilderness. Throughout the course of the journey, our party of three stood atop the summits of 8 4,000 foot peaks:

• Hale
• Zealand
• West Bond
• Bond
• Bondcliff
• South Twin
• North Twin
• Galehead

To be perfectly honest, I’m struggling to put the experience accurately into words. This was hands-down the most challenging hike that I’ve ever undertaken. While heading towards South Twin, I suddenly hit a low point which nearly stopped me in my tracks – an overwhelming sense of exhaustion that both confused and distressed me. I had to reach deep inside myself to find the strength to keep going.

Why did this happen? Did I fuel myself improperly, or have I just not been training hard enough? Perhaps I was just having a bad day?

These are some questions I’ll have to think about as I continue to work towards improving myself as a hiker.

On a brighter note, I very much encourage you to read this more optimistic rendition of our 30 mile adventure, compiled by my good friend Tim Seaver.

A few pictures from the day:

…full album here.