Doing Stuff Outdoors-69

We go mountain climbing on this edition of DSO. Gary and a group of outdoor enthusiasts head to Baxter State Park to climb the highest mountain in Maine. Mount Katahdin stands at 5,267 feet and is the northern terminus of the Appalachian Trail. Katahdin is a popular hiking and backpacking destination and the centerpiece of the park. The most famous hike to the summit is called the Knife Edge, which traverses the ridge between Pamola Peak and Baxter Peak. Katahdin has claimed over 20 lives in the past 40 years mostly from exposure in bad weather and falls from the Knifes Edge.

Our climb to the summit takes place just before access to the mountain is restricted  in mid October. Already higher elevations have seen snow and ice and during the climb, patches of snow are still visible. The group chose one of the more challenging trails to the summit that was still open because of the high winds. That day we experienced sustained winds of 60 miles-per-hour with gusts to 80 mph. So come along on the climb with Gary and the other members of his party. He also stops and talks to other climbers they meet along the trail, including some thru-hikers completing a seven month Appalachian adventure at the summit.

Podsafe music this week from Lisa Redford of the UK. We'll also hear updates on Gary's fitness challenge to lose weight and news about putting a new kayak through its paces. Also an email about 'Becoming an Outdoorswoman'. Contact the show at [e-mail]