White Out Conditions on the Summit

2013-03-07 17:39:25.000 – Mike Dorfman,  Summit Intern

Photo taken by Volunteer Tim Myers of the cat ride

Yesterday’s snow cat ride up to the summit was one of the most exciting I’ve had this winter. With 20 feet of visibility and extremely flat light, two observers walked out in front of the cat, hitting the posts that line the road to knock off the thick rime ice that built up on them. After this was done, it was very easy to see where the road was, but without these markers it was extremely challenging to determine which way to go. After two and a half hours, our very talented driver Slim Bryant was able to safely deliver the crew to the summit.

If you are interested in experiencing the extreme conditions that the summit has to offer, there are several ways to the top. There are several guided trips offered through the EMS climbing school, Mooney Mountain Guides and Synnott Mountain Guides that hike up and spend a night at the observatory. In addition, the Mount Washington Observatory runs both day trips and overnight themed trips throughout the winter to the summit, taking the Observatory’s snow cat up the auto road. For more information on opportunities to come up to the summit in the winter, please visit our website.

Mike Dorfman,  Summit Intern