Just Too Cold
The forecast is finally calling for "normal" temps in the 20s (about 0C) for the balance of the week after the extended frigidity of January eliminated any outside activities of note for much of the month. As a confirmed devotee of winter, I far prefer trekking when there's a chill in the air as opposed to the heat, insects, and other annoyances of summer wandering. Though I've yet to see mention of the phenomenon in the writing of Thoreau or Muir, there's nothing much more annoying than a swarm of gnats who have discovered that your path is precisely where they're headed and will not be deterred from your company despite frenetic arm-waving, turning in circles, and increases of pace. This, of course, except for the occasional tick seeking fine dining in the form of your person.
So, my friends, I prefer winter...but not when temps are where they've been. I've determined over the years that about 10F (-15C) without wind and preferably sunny is perfectly comfortable. This presumes proper layering and steady activity. Below this is simply too cold...and not recommended by my doctors. Thankfully, when we approach the freezing point later this week, it will seem positively balmy...
Just Too Cold
The forecast is finally calling for "normal" temps in the 20s (about 0C) for the balance of the week after the extended frigidity of January eliminated any outside activities of note for much of the month. As a confirmed devotee of winter, I far prefer trekking when there's a chill in the air as opposed to the heat, insects, and other annoyances of summer wandering. Though I've yet to see mention of the phenomenon in the writing of Thoreau or Muir, there's nothing much more annoying than a swarm of gnats who have discovered that your path is precisely where they're headed and will not be deterred from your company despite frenetic arm-waving, turning in circles, and increases of pace. This, of course, except for the occasional tick seeking fine dining in the form of your person.
So, my friends, I prefer winter...but not when temps are where they've been. I've determined over the years that about 10F (-15C) without wind and preferably sunny is perfectly comfortable. This presumes proper layering and steady activity. Below this is simply too cold...and not recommended by my doctors. Thankfully, when we approach the freezing point later this week, it will seem positively balmy...