With the missing hiker in many of our minds right now, I appreciate a story of trusting your instincts and turning around. That kind of honesty with ourselves is critical and ultimately life saving in some cases.
I think it’s so amazing that you are willing to set this type of example for others. It’s so critical to be willing to change your plans and not let ego get in the way of safety. Thank you for sharing another adventure!
I was thinking similar sentiments. Such an authentic woman. Someone who talks with a smile on and thrill in her eyes. Jazzing up people to thrive in their adventures.
I got caught in one of mt washingtons temper tantrums, if i didnt know to turn around i would've died up there, its always good to know when to turn back it may save your life
Good video. Having hiked The White Mountains for the past 25 years in all seasons/weather - it is important to have the right clothing/gear, engage your brain(use judgment) , and know your limits. This is especially true if you are hiking solo and/or hiking in severe conditions. I have turned back on a number of occasions. I also go by the adage that “There is no such thing as a day hike”. In other words - Be Prepared and carry enough with you to survive at least one night out should something not go as planned.
Yeah, the ever-growing Ultralight crowd is so focused on not carrying weight that to take overnight gear on a dayhike in the Whites is tantamount to blasphemy to them. Imagine dying because you can't handle hiking with an extra 10 lbs? Hit the gym, folks!
Your call to turn around in a sketchy situation is a great example to everyone starting out winter hiking. With the story of the missing hiker’s body found recently, I am reminded again that, to be safe, one has to have enough equipment to spend the night if necessary. I now bring a sleeping pad, quilt, emergency bivvy, hard shell, snow pants, extra puffy jacket, two sets of gloves, two hats, fire tools to all winter day hikes. Not saying she would have survived with those, but it likely would have increased her chances greatly. So sad.
Very proud of you for turning around. When I fist started solo hiking in winter, I started on easier trails and built up to get confident. It's always ok to turn around.
Thank you for promoting and describing the risk assessments by describing things that we all see as winter hikers but talking through that to your audience is HUGE. Well said and thanks for making the call and sharing your alternate exploits with us!
I had to help my dog Harvey climb that scramble you stopped at when we did Glen boulder. I'm proud of you sister for doing the right thing. I turned back one time just below the summit of Whiteface because I couldn't get Harvey up a scramble. I just hiked it another time by myself, the mountain will be there another day. Prayers for the girl missing in Franconia.
About 3 years back I hiked that trail (early June) and that very spot you got stuck is one my dog wouldn't go up and over. Another hiker on the trail gave him a boost and we made our way to an overnight on Mount Isolation. I'd had some knee surgery in April so this was my first 4000 footer of that year. That one hurt ;-) But, the motto of the Whites is "When in doubt, there is no doubt".
There is no shame in turning around, I know you know this. Currently there is a search for a lovely young woman in the Franconia Notch area. It’s heartbreaking to hear news like this. Sharing with us this video of you turning back could hopefully show people that it’s sometimes necessary. Winter conditions can be beautiful as well as harsh and should always be considered when hiking. Thank you for sharing 😊
So good that you posted this to help educate hikers so that people know that it’s OK to turn back if it’s not safe. Always better to be safe. Excellent example. Thank you for posting this. It will help novice hikers for sure.
A great video showing that it’s ok to turn around. My thoughts are with the crews currently searching and family of the missing hiker who didn’t come home.
I do most of my hiking alone and there have been a couple of times I made my mind up to turn around before I became a statistic. I once used the Glen Boulder trail to get to the top of the ridge, and then proceeded to hike to and up Mt. Washington.
You made the right decision to turn back because safety is number one. I love Glen Ellis Falls! It was my favorite waterfall when I went to New Hampshire this past summer. Wow! It looks beautiful in the winter with the snow and icicles!
THANK YOU for posting this video! More people need to see intelligent decision making like this! So many get into this mindtrip of having to challenge themselves and feeling defeated if they didn't do something "not" smart like traversing something that could injure them badly. Honestly, I think this is real content, this, to show you backing out when others would've just scrapped the footage and we would've never had known. This is a lot more educational than perfect-day hikes where just about everything goes right. Outstanding content Taylor. I'm going to share this on my 2 Facebook groups (58,000 members) as a "How To" video (i.e. as in how to do things right). I wish I could give this video a ❤ instead of just a 👍.
I’m glad you turned back, I love watching people on hikes I will never do, but I’d rather see you live❣️ A young woman died last week, hiking, she wasn’t prepared, so she died for nothing. Very sad. Keep safe & alive💗🙏🏾🌸
My first bailout while solo climbing the Bigelows in Maine was an eye opener and a life lesson. I was climbing the Fire Warden's Trail in crampons and ski poles when it began getting dark earlier than expected, then the rain started, and began to mix with ice and snow. I decided to turn back because I was unaware of my position and reckoned that my progress was too slow to make it to the Fire Warden's cabin. I had to pitch my tent on the way back to my car. I was out of water but too tired to melt snow for drinking and making dinner. I was cold that night, despite being in a bag rated to negative 40F, and the temperature hovering around freezing. I was severely dehydrated and didn't realize it until the next day. I got some water and hiked out to my car, which was at the top of a hill. The road was now glare ice and there was a pond at the bottom where the road turned sharply. I decided to walk out to the first house I came to and call for a tow. Eventually, I made it out without incident, thanks to having a healthy respect for the unpredictability of nature in winter. Some people hope for the best in the midst of the worst, and don't walk out. A 20 year old woman is missing in the New Hampshire mountains. I am praying for her family and friends while hoping, against hope, for a miracle. 🙏🙏🙏
Taylor thank you for being safe. I've been too Isolation a few times. Only once via Glenn Boulder. Always remember, the mountain isn't going anywhere. Next time it will be better. Thank you for taking us along. Hike on.
We did this on November 4th. We started Glen boulder at 5am and we didn't get back until almost 6PM. Even when it's perfect conditions like we had it is such a grueling long hike with a ton of elevation gain. Highly recommend waiting until summer and doing Glen Boulder for sunrise. Also that first rock scramble you were at entering the alpine zone was sketchy going down even when it was warm and dry haha
At the risk of sounding condescending, I'm proud of you, that you made the right decision and turned around. There are so many people that don't make the correct decision and pay for it with their lives. Case in point, at the time of me watching your video, a 20-year-old hiker who was unprepared, perished in the Flume Mountain area. Something like that, where common sense should have overridden her "want" to complete a hike ends up costing her life. Great video and it shows people a whole lot more than just a beautiful New Hampshire. Best wishes and good luck in your future endeavors.
I tried hiking the Glen Boulder Trail in the winter to do Isolation 3 years ago but I failed to reach the summit because the trail was not packed just below Boot Spur. Later that year, I did Isolation through the Rocky Branch "Bushwhack" and I made the summit. It was my 47/48 for my NH 4000.
Ah, great words of caution - in the mountains solo, which many can relate to, not the time to take unnecessary chances. Sketchy things happen even when taking precautions. As I knock out the 14ers in CO, been faced with similar tough decisions, HATE turning back, though always arrive back to safety. My kids here say, Dad you win some but you lose a lot more! Ha
Thanks for making this one, pro hiker plays it safe. I have turned around also. The goal isn't to summit but it is to return home safely. Hurray you did it.
Thanks for modeling intelligent hiking (and additionally, you made the proverbial lemonade out of your lemon.) Whether or not your are aware of it, you are a national leader among outdoor enthusiasts and your examples are monitored. Happy Thanksgiving.
It’s hard,but to positive the hiker that passed on can remind future hikers to be prepared and have situational awareness . There could also be some more educational signage at the trailheads and possibly some psa’s. Nahamsha made lemonade out of lemons.
Pinkham notch is so gorgeous and back in my reckless days, we would take dead mans curve at high rates of speed singing buckcherry, lol There's some awesome gem hunting around the falls, too! Also, perfect timing for this, as they are currently searching for a lone lost hiker around Lafayette.
I was living at Pinkham Notch, working for the AMC when I attempted to pass the tree line on the Glen Boulder Trail for the first time - I had hiked below tree line often between my shifts. It was mid spring then, so there was some snow, but none covering the spot you stopped at. I scrambled up it and as I got above tree line, the wind was incredible. I was an experienced hiker in all seasons by that time, and I knew in my gut that I shouldn't go on too much further as I had been caught in very heavy winds on Mt. Washington and saw a 6'4" friend knocked over by them and fall thankfully only 10' down, and not on his head. My friend and I leapfrogged back to the AMC van and went back to basecamp. Back to Glen Boulder Trail though. There were other hikers just sitting on the place you stopped at, one with a dog. I asked them if they had tried to advance further up, and they had but the winds were too strong to feel secure. I again went just above that rocky area and again couldn't believe the increase in wind, but respected it and then said "Yeah, no" to hiking any further on my own. I weighed all of 105 lbs then and knew strong wind in other hikes in other places as well as in the Whites, and had some close calls, with the memories still fresh. You were very wise to turn around. You really have to listen to your gut and be very thoughtful about each decision you make - each step is a decision. You also absolutely have to know the predicted weather and wind. The predictions can easily be wrong and/or change, so you have to prepare for that too. But listening to your gut means you get to hike another day. I found early on that hiking with someone much more experienced than I was but also very careful allowed me to learn exponentially. Happy hiking and thanks for sharing!
Perfect video, thank you for posting it! That blooper at the end - people may laugh but that's how quickly things can go sideways and in winter, can be very serious. Glad you're okay, Na Hampsha is an awesome state btw. I live next state over near Canada but I love it down there.
Taylor, the rock scrambles on that trail are crazy (even in the Summer)! It is on the edge of the Tuckermann Ravine, great view. That's the way I ascended Isolation, as well. There is a long ridge walk too. The mountain will always be there.
I agree -- safety first. You did the right thing. If you had fallen or otherwise twisted an ankle or broken something, you might have been in serious trouble (even with the other guy right behind you.) If the temps are that cold, any period of time when you are immobilized can be threatening in terms of hypothermia, particularly if you were in shock due to the injury. Snow would just accelerate the risk because of the danger of wet clothing. If night fell, conditions would then be very threatening for exposure. Being outdoors in winter conditions is no joke.
Great choice! I usually solo hike and often in winter. You have to be safe than bold and brave. As I am sure you already know there is currently a missing 20 year old female in the Whites.
I'm glad you followed your gut. Winter hiking is a whole other level and I really advise you never go alone! It is also important to become prepared and have a solid plan. Thank you for being humble and putting this out there especially after the recent tragedy. I've come across many hikers in my time that seemed too casual and nonchalant and probably did not respect mother nature and the mountains. I think many underestimate the Whites and don't take it seriously. I get told all the time that "oh 4000ft isn't nothing, thats nothing like Mt. Everest"....anyways stay safe and keep on adventuring!
I'm really proud of you for Turning around. It's really hard to abandon a hike for safety reasons. I was trying to finish the Vermont Long trail this fall, I had 120 left to go. I got caught in a thunderstorm coming down from Camel's hump and it scared me. I decided I would come down and finish next summer with a friend.
That rock corner is challenging in good weather, hand holds are hidden there and the snow will definitely complicate that section!!!! I also agree with the other comments with the loss of our fellow hiker this past week every hiker needs to be aware of their limits, smart move, nice job, thanks for sharing.
Taylor….beautiful view of the falls. Crampons vs. spikes…the deeper we get into hiking in the winter crampons are a must…they’ll provide so much more confidence when traversing icy patches or navigating the section where you chose to turn back. Ultimately you made the right decision given conditions…thanks for sharing.
I am a solo camper/hiker and have had to turn around a few times for safety. Thanks for posting this as a reminder to always listen to your gut! Also Glen Ellis was such a fun short hike, I was just there in the Spring!
Good call to turn around! This reminds me of a time when I tried to climb Longs Peak in Colorado in the winter solo. When I go to the crux section of the route (which is an awkward scramble in dry conditions), I managed to climb up the thing, but later on the way down, I couldn't manage a proper way to climb down the section with the snow, and the need for me to keep my gloves on. I ended up just sliding down the section part way. Fortunately the slide was short enough, and had a safe area to stop at the base. If it was higher, sliding like that could have caused an injury. I eventually made my way back down....after losing the trail/route through the snow near timberline....intermittent trees make for deeper snow, and hard to follow trail. My fingers never froze that day, but they stayed really cold for many hours. They didn't get frostbite, but they sustained a cold injury that caused me issues for a few years afterwards. Hiking and climbing in the winter definitely requires an attention to safety details, and a lot of foresight into the sorts of things that could possibly go wrong in the coming hours if certain things aren't taken care of early enough. But this is one of the reasons that I love winter camping so much. It's more of a challenge, but a manageable one. Happy winter trails!
Good for you. While doing our 48 we turned around several times all in the winter, and since then we turned around on Katahdin in July. That's a looong drive to turn around but if it's not right it's not right.
You are a wise hiker Taylor. Cold hands definitely not good for what you were about to ascend. I love Glen Ellis Falls. I was down there in July. Great video. Can't go wrong in The Whites. ✌️
I really appreciated your video and proud of you for making the best decision for your safety! I made me feel better about taking a break from my Appalachian Trail thru hike this year as The Whites & southern Maine were too dangerous for my skill level.
The Whites in winter are no joke. Good call on turning back. As you know, there is little to no margin for error. What would be a minor glitch in summer (fall, twist ankle, lack of food, etc) can be life threatening in winter. On winter hikes, I was taught to plan as if I might have to spend the night out there: traction, extra layers, balaclava, goggles, shelter, sleeping bag, stove, food w/ lots of calories that won't freeze, hot drinks, etc. It's a heavier load obv...but can save your life or help you help a fellow hiker. My apologies if I made an incorrect assumption about what you were carrying. Try Rocky Branch to summit Iso in winter! Spectacular hike!
I had planned a winter hike to Isolation and I wanted to do Glen Boulder. But my research indicated that GBT in the winter should be treated as a technical ice climb. So I did it (in VERY early spring) via Rocky Branch Trail. So glad you did the smart thing and recognized your limits.
You made the right decision to turn around. Hiking in winter conditions can be dangerous. I do like to hike solo, but winter in the whites I like to hike with people. I was in the southern Presi’s this same day doing a southern presi traverse. It was cold, but a fun hike.
Isolation is a tough one in the winter! It is waaay easier to wait until farther into the season when everything is frozen over. I usually don't do much winter hiking until January because shoulder seasons can be really tough and dangerous!
That would require common sense, like NOT climbing a steep rocky climb in new snow, opps must be a millennial doing a youtube hello just stupid but weather is just a construct
Glenn Boulder is fun and even in summer “Hillary” step is a challenge. Great safety call. Rocky Branch as you may know is more the winter route to Iso. The big wind gust heard certainly suggested it on the first peak after the Boulder. Hope you check out both Engine hill bushwhack and Iso express bushwhack. See you out there .
Well done! Whether it's an urban environment, scuba diving, hiking in the wilderness, or anything really, your 6th sense is there for a reason. If something doesn't feel right, figure out why or stop! Times I've regretted beating a retreat = 0. Times I've regretted ignoring that inner voice = too many. Even Alex Honnold turned back on his first attempt to free solo El Capitan.
Safety is key. I ordered the LMNT through the other video link of yours and had the mango chili on the AT last weekend. Salty and delicious. Happy trails.🤘🏻🥾⛰️
Very, very clever and experienced thinking from you Taylor! It is always better to stay on the safe side in wilderness. I am a senior hiker from Finland. We have very cold and freezing conditions during wintertime. I have turned back and changed my plans so many times according to wheather & conditions during my hiking and cross country skiing trips. I always have my matches with me in case the fire is needed for getting warm up and signal. All the best and stay safe out there! BR Veijo
Excellent decision! I echo the comments from others that normalizing turning back when conditions aren't optimal is important. I hike in the whites year round and have turned around plenty of times because it just wasn't right. Happy hiking!
Just sitting down to watch this, and my comment is before watching. Glen Boulder to Isolation is a great route. Throw in some extra elevation and hit Boott Spur while you're up there. Makes for a long day in the summer. Winter would make it an excellent challenge. The trip back up, even the view of it, from the Davis Path back up to the Glen Boulder Junction looks quite daunting on your way back.
My winter "hikes" involved long walks in the Chicago area, where indoor cafes and museums were fun destinations. Sometimes the zoo park's animals were out, but usually not. Public transit to return home was always an option, if needed. The snowy scenery and waterfall in this video is beautiful. I would like to see it. Whatever you choose to do, enjoy the day and be safe.
Safety first, especially when out solo. Jeez, I'm so not ready for winter. It's been fairly mild up to this point in Pennsylvania. I'm thankful for that! Have a great week.
Discretion and wisdom are the better part of valor. Glad you opted for a different path :) I did that at Little Jackson in ME not too long ago. Daylight was at a real premium, so I decided to do an about face. There will be another day to tackle it :)
During my first attempt at hiking isolation, I had to turn around at the top section of that same scramble. I was more worried about going back down. It's good to know your limits and put your safety first, especially when hiking solo!
That looks like a real nice hike, I would imagine if you got up there it would’ve been so much tougher coming down best to be safe have a great holiday..
Thank you for sharing your hard work. I look forward to your videos everyday. God Bless Emily Sotelo and her family and friends. Matt from Lynn, Massachusetts
Taylor! Somehow I got unsubscribed and haven't seen any videos in a while. This video just popped up and I'm glad to be back. My parents are from NH and I always spent the summers there when growing up. It's awesome seeing you visit all the places I played with my cousins. I just lost my Dad and that makes your videos extra special to me. Makes me really miss the Granite State. Keep up the great work.
I remember that scramble! I’m not a fan of them but getting braver! We hiked this route on October 8th this year, it was our final peak and it was gorgeous up on Davis Path! We have turned around on a hike once before, better safe than sorry, always safety first!
Awesome, honest and a great example for others to follow. Great decisions..... been there, done that an felt defeated. Yet it is the right thing to do. Thanks for sharing your adventures.
Last September my gf and I did Isolation via glen boulder. Let me say this the weather was extreme. High winds ice and lots of water down low. One of the few hikes that are equal to the Dacks of NY.
Better safe than sorry. I hike the Whites in the winter on a regular basis, including Mt Washington, Franconia Ridge and the like, and sometimes you turn around and come back another day. If this was truly your first winter hike you might consider doing some winter hikes with someone more experienced before doing these hikes on your own. Happy trails, nice video.
Just wondering what kind of footwear you are using and did you have micro spikes on? I am asking because i am in the market for winter hiking boots. Good call I turning around. The mountains will always be there, live to hike another day. My first overnight winter backpacking trip j made camp and realized I was not prepared for such cold temps. I packed my gear and hiked out in the dark. Safety first. Thanks for sharing.
Im sorry i never got the whole solo hike especially in the white mountains so unpredictable weather. Im glad you turned around.We have a log home in the middle of the white mountains so many people injured or killed every year never go alone.
It is always the right decision, dont second guess yoruself in epic conditions. Been up there many times. My first adventure in winter was with my hiking /climbing bud up to Hermit Lake lean-tos at Tucks for a couple of nites dead of winter. below zero temps some wind and a few flurries. There was at least one other party in another lean to . But it was super quiet. My buddy had a goal to do Lions Head solo. So he took off for that w/ double boots. trek poles, crampons, ice axe and plenty of food water and proper clothing- He knew the route like the back of his hand and was very experienced - competent. i 'hiked' , well, more like trudged up to the bowl proper for a bit . No one was skiing due to cloud cover and flat light conditions. Pretty epic to hang and gaze upon the headwall, the wind cutting across the top bulding a huge cornice. After an hour or so it was getting to be dusk so I headed back to the lean-to and my bud hadnt returned yet. Cooking up a now frozen homemade pasta, wondering ho wmy bud was doing all alone up there. Another hour or so he came stomping back to basecamp. " I almost topped out just before the (Alpine) Garden but the wind was brutal coming around that final arete." He had chosen to turn around, so close yet soo far. With the conditions and the slow going he made the right decision, his descent was no picnic either as wind, snow and ice kept the route dicey. All thru dinner he kept saying " brutal, just brutal" . The decision to head back is no laughing matter. Its the differnce between living another day to tackle your goals or throwing fate to the wind literally with the possibility of becoming another SAR Recovery stat. There is no embarrassement, no criticism, defeat, in turning around. Its all a part of mountain experience : The journey is more important than the summit.
Take great care. You made a very smart decision. The Whites will punish complacent hikers severely who do not pay proper respect for these elements. Praying that they find the missing girl on Haystack/Lafayette.
You were quite ambitious. Mt. Isolation. Good choice on turning around. When I am hesitating about turning around, I think, will I become an incident covered no North Woods Law? Is this really how I want to meet Glen Lucas?
actually at 3:50 you are fortunately, on you way back down the trail!! All hikers have had disappointments. May you have more! Hikes and disappointments.
I once tried to hike Mount Washington to be at the top for the '95 Labor Day bike race. In the valley it was 70 and partly cloudy. By 4,000 feet it was like walking up a trout stream and I turned around. Found out later that conditions at the top were freezing with rain blowing sideways. You always have to be ready to turn back. Another time a girlfriend and I were on a three day trip in the whites. The first night a bear found the rope that held our food hung over the creek from a branch. The only thing left in the morning was a torn open canvas bag still tied to the rope with the branch pulled down and neat pile of sliced cheese wrappers. Once again, you have to be ready to turn back. We turned back on empty stomachs. Imagine the intelligence of a bear knowing after eating the sliced cheese wrappers previously that it didn't do it again.
Thank you for sharing. No shame in knowing your limits Like the Conservation Officer said yesterday after finding Emily, “no shame in turning back. The mountain will be there tomorrow “.
I just hiked the Tripyramids last weekend! Lots of snow and without proper gear, would’ve been super scary (22 degrees but thankfully no wind). Love this video! We should hike together😊❄️
Thanks Taylor, you made a good decision. There will be another day. If you tried to force your own way over this obstacle, something really bad could have happened. Thanks for staying safe.
Some winter hiking tips. When the temperature is below freezing store your water bottles up side down. Ice forms at the top, and when it is upside down, the top is the bottom. It allows you to keep drinking. I have not been in the whites this winter, but have been in the whites, greens, and the ADKs in the winter 100s of times, if there is 4" at the bottom, there is likely more than a foot of snow at the top. You should have had snow shoes. Micro spikes might have helped. Crampon for sure would have helped. Also hiking an unfamiliar trail in the fall OR early winter especially without a lot of traffic, it is difficult to follow a trail. In the summer we can see scrapes from poles and warn rocks from thousands of previous hikers. You made the right call to stop the hike. Your gloves looked to not be up to the task. Synthetic mittens are quite nice, and provide more dexterity than one would expect. When rock climbing , with some practice, you can get very good hand holds, as good as you can with gloves. I resisted mitten for a long time, and since I switched I have never looked back. One last note - that is a tough trail in icy conditions. When I did it in the winter I have crampons and an ice axe. I did not use them, but it a must carry. It is a pretty hike. Cheers.
It was best you did turn back. I know I would have. Sometimes it is best to go with the gut instincts. LMNT is great stuff. I found that it really does help. I noticed I barely get cramps in my legs when I go to bed here at home or in the mountains. That reminds me I need to order more. Be safe in your hikes.
With the missing hiker in many of our minds right now, I appreciate a story of trusting your instincts and turning around. That kind of honesty with ourselves is critical and ultimately life saving in some cases.
Thanks, I want to normalize turning around. No need to push ourselves and get into an unsafe situation. I'm thinking about the missing hiker a lot.
@@TaylortheNahamshaHiker They found her body on Mount Lafayette near Franconia earlier today 😞
@@danielstoddart may she rest in peace
@Rachel A - Was going to say the same. Its an important lesson for all and I hate to not complete something.
@@hockeyplayah7912 its sad but she should have known better not dressing warm in those mountains or in winter weather period.
I think it’s so amazing that you are willing to set this type of example for others. It’s so critical to be willing to change your plans and not let ego get in the way of safety. Thank you for sharing another adventure!
I was thinking similar sentiments. Such an authentic woman. Someone who talks with a smile on and thrill in her eyes. Jazzing up people to thrive in their adventures.
Thank you!! I'm happy to share 😊
I got caught in one of mt washingtons temper tantrums, if i didnt know to turn around i would've died up there, its always good to know when to turn back it may save your life
Good video.
Having hiked The White Mountains for the past 25 years in all seasons/weather - it is important to have the right clothing/gear, engage your brain(use judgment) , and know your limits. This is especially true if you are hiking solo and/or hiking in severe conditions. I have turned back on a number of occasions. I also go by the adage that “There is no such thing as a day hike”. In other words - Be Prepared and carry enough with you to survive at least one night out should something not go as planned.
Yeah, the ever-growing Ultralight crowd is so focused on not carrying weight that to take overnight gear on a dayhike in the Whites is tantamount to blasphemy to them. Imagine dying because you can't handle hiking with an extra 10 lbs? Hit the gym, folks!
Your call to turn around in a sketchy situation is a great example to everyone starting out winter hiking. With the story of the missing hiker’s body found recently, I am reminded again that, to be safe, one has to have enough equipment to spend the night if necessary. I now bring a sleeping pad, quilt, emergency bivvy, hard shell, snow pants, extra puffy jacket, two sets of gloves, two hats, fire tools to all winter day hikes. Not saying she would have survived with those, but it likely would have increased her chances greatly. So sad.
Very proud of you for turning around. When I fist started solo hiking in winter, I started on easier trails and built up to get confident. It's always ok to turn around.
Thank you for promoting and describing the risk assessments by describing things that we all see as winter hikers but talking through that to your audience is HUGE. Well said and thanks for making the call and sharing your alternate exploits with us!
I had to help my dog Harvey climb that scramble you stopped at when we did Glen boulder. I'm proud of you sister for doing the right thing. I turned back one time just below the summit of Whiteface because I couldn't get Harvey up a scramble. I just hiked it another time by myself, the mountain will be there another day. Prayers for the girl missing in Franconia.
Hah! very same thing with my dog Wrigley.
@@glorgau hiking with dogs is always interesting. Harvey is a good scrambler so if he can't make it up something then I know it's serious.
About 3 years back I hiked that trail (early June) and that very spot you got stuck is one my dog wouldn't go up and over. Another hiker on the trail gave him a boost and we made our way to an overnight on Mount Isolation. I'd had some knee surgery in April so this was my first 4000 footer of that year. That one hurt ;-)
But, the motto of the Whites is "When in doubt, there is no doubt".
There is no shame in turning around, I know you know this. Currently there is a search for a lovely young woman in the Franconia Notch area. It’s heartbreaking to hear news like this. Sharing with us this video of you turning back could hopefully show people that it’s sometimes necessary. Winter conditions can be beautiful as well as harsh and should always be considered when hiking. Thank you for sharing 😊
So good that you posted this to help educate hikers so that people know that it’s OK to turn back if it’s not safe. Always better to be safe. Excellent example. Thank you for posting this. It will help novice hikers for sure.
A great video showing that it’s ok to turn around. My thoughts are with the crews currently searching and family of the missing hiker who didn’t come home.
“Don’t do anything stupid” are words to live by. I do most of my backpacking solo and those are the words my wife always shares with me.
I do most of my hiking alone and there have been a couple of times I made my mind up to turn around before I became a statistic. I once used the Glen Boulder trail to get to the top of the ridge, and then proceeded to hike to and up Mt. Washington.
You made the right decision to turn back because safety is number one. I love Glen Ellis Falls! It was my favorite waterfall when I went to New Hampshire this past summer. Wow! It looks beautiful in the winter with the snow and icicles!
I'm glad you turned around. Please don't take chances, we need you to do our vicarious hiking. Thanks.
The falls were awesome. It is always better to be safe than sorry. Thanks for the video. Stay well and be safe.
THANK YOU for posting this video!
More people need to see intelligent decision making like this! So many get into this mindtrip of having to challenge themselves and feeling defeated if they didn't do something "not" smart like traversing something that could injure them badly. Honestly, I think this is real content, this, to show you backing out when others would've just scrapped the footage and we would've never had known. This is a lot more educational than perfect-day hikes where just about everything goes right.
Outstanding content Taylor. I'm going to share this on my 2 Facebook groups (58,000 members) as a "How To" video (i.e. as in how to do things right).
I wish I could give this video a ❤ instead of just a 👍.
Thanks! I'm really happy to share this type of experience. I hope people can relate from it and feel okay to turn around too
I’m glad you turned back, I love watching people on hikes I will never do, but I’d rather see you live❣️
A young woman died last week, hiking, she wasn’t prepared, so she died for nothing. Very sad. Keep safe & alive💗🙏🏾🌸
My first bailout while solo climbing the Bigelows in Maine was an eye opener and a life lesson. I was climbing the Fire Warden's Trail in crampons and ski poles when it began getting dark earlier than expected, then the rain started, and began to mix with ice and snow. I decided to turn back because I was unaware of my position and reckoned that my progress was too slow to make it to the Fire Warden's cabin. I had to pitch my tent on the way back to my car. I was out of water but too tired to melt snow for drinking and making dinner. I was cold that night, despite being in a bag rated to negative 40F, and the temperature hovering around freezing. I was severely dehydrated and didn't realize it until the next day. I got some water and hiked out to my car, which was at the top of a hill. The road was now glare ice and there was a pond at the bottom where the road turned sharply. I decided to walk out to the first house I came to and call for a tow.
Eventually, I made it out without incident, thanks to having a healthy respect for the unpredictability of nature in winter.
Some people hope for the best in the midst of the worst, and don't walk out.
A 20 year old woman is missing in the New Hampshire mountains. I am praying for her family and friends while hoping, against hope, for a miracle. 🙏🙏🙏
You made the right decision to head back down the mountain 🏔. You always make great informative videos. Thanks Taylor. 🥾
Taylor thank you for being safe. I've been too Isolation a few times. Only once via Glenn Boulder. Always remember, the mountain isn't going anywhere. Next time it will be better. Thank you for taking us along. Hike on.
We did this on November 4th. We started Glen boulder at 5am and we didn't get back until almost 6PM. Even when it's perfect conditions like we had it is such a grueling long hike with a ton of elevation gain.
Highly recommend waiting until summer and doing Glen Boulder for sunrise.
Also that first rock scramble you were at entering the alpine zone was sketchy going down even when it was warm and dry haha
At the risk of sounding condescending, I'm proud of you, that you made the right decision and turned around. There are so many people that don't make the correct decision and pay for it with their lives. Case in point, at the time of me watching your video, a 20-year-old hiker who was unprepared, perished in the Flume Mountain area. Something like that, where common sense should have overridden her "want" to complete a hike ends up costing her life.
Great video and it shows people a whole lot more than just a beautiful New Hampshire. Best wishes and good luck in your future endeavors.
Timely video, especially with discovery of Emily Sotelo's body this morning. The mountain will always be there for the next time.
I tried hiking the Glen Boulder Trail in the winter to do Isolation 3 years ago but I failed to reach the summit because the trail was not packed just below Boot Spur. Later that year, I did Isolation through the Rocky Branch "Bushwhack" and I made the summit. It was my 47/48 for my NH 4000.
Love the blooper reel. Keep ‘em coming!
Ah, great words of caution - in the mountains solo, which many can relate to, not the time to take unnecessary chances. Sketchy things happen even when taking precautions. As I knock out the 14ers in CO, been faced with similar tough decisions, HATE turning back, though always arrive back to safety. My kids here say, Dad you win some but you lose a lot more! Ha
Thanks for making this one, pro hiker plays it safe. I have turned around also. The goal isn't to summit but it is to return home safely. Hurray you did it.
Great video, for real. I'm so impressed with your skills and hiking instincts! You're a great example for new AND experienced hikers.
Thanks for modeling intelligent hiking (and additionally, you made the proverbial lemonade out of your lemon.) Whether or not your are aware of it, you are a national leader among outdoor enthusiasts and your examples are monitored. Happy Thanksgiving.
It’s hard,but to positive the hiker that passed on can remind future hikers to be prepared and have situational awareness . There could also be some more educational signage at the trailheads and possibly some psa’s. Nahamsha made lemonade out of lemons.
Pinkham notch is so gorgeous and back in my reckless days, we would take dead mans curve at high rates of speed singing buckcherry, lol There's some awesome gem hunting around the falls, too! Also, perfect timing for this, as they are currently searching for a lone lost hiker around Lafayette.
I love that you did your ad read while figuring out how to get around a big boulder. Props!
I was living at Pinkham Notch, working for the AMC when I attempted to pass the tree line on the Glen Boulder Trail for the first time - I had hiked below tree line often between my shifts. It was mid spring then, so there was some snow, but none covering the spot you stopped at. I scrambled up it and as I got above tree line, the wind was incredible. I was an experienced hiker in all seasons by that time, and I knew in my gut that I shouldn't go on too much further as I had been caught in very heavy winds on Mt. Washington and saw a 6'4" friend knocked over by them and fall thankfully only 10' down, and not on his head. My friend and I leapfrogged back to the AMC van and went back to basecamp.
Back to Glen Boulder Trail though. There were other hikers just sitting on the place you stopped at, one with a dog. I asked them if they had tried to advance further up, and they had but the winds were too strong to feel secure. I again went just above that rocky area and again couldn't believe the increase in wind, but respected it and then said "Yeah, no" to hiking any further on my own. I weighed all of 105 lbs then and knew strong wind in other hikes in other places as well as in the Whites, and had some close calls, with the memories still fresh.
You were very wise to turn around. You really have to listen to your gut and be very thoughtful about each decision you make - each step is a decision. You also absolutely have to know the predicted weather and wind. The predictions can easily be wrong and/or change, so you have to prepare for that too. But listening to your gut means you get to hike another day. I found early on that hiking with someone much more experienced than I was but also very careful allowed me to learn exponentially.
Happy hiking and thanks for sharing!
Perfect video, thank you for posting it! That blooper at the end - people may laugh but that's how quickly things can go sideways and in winter, can be very serious. Glad you're okay, Na Hampsha is an awesome state btw. I live next state over near Canada but I love it down there.
Taylor, the rock scrambles on that trail are crazy (even in the Summer)! It is on the edge of the Tuckermann Ravine, great view. That's the way I ascended Isolation, as well. There is a long ridge walk too. The mountain will always be there.
Good call on the hike. Better to be safe. Glen Boulder will be there for a later hike.
Giggled at the blooper at the end, glad you’re ok.
I agree -- safety first. You did the right thing. If you had fallen or otherwise twisted an ankle or broken something, you might have been in serious trouble (even with the other guy right behind you.) If the temps are that cold, any period of time when you are immobilized can be threatening in terms of hypothermia, particularly if you were in shock due to the injury. Snow would just accelerate the risk because of the danger of wet clothing. If night fell, conditions would then be very threatening for exposure. Being outdoors in winter conditions is no joke.
All good points!
Great choice! I usually solo hike and often in winter. You have to be safe than bold and brave. As I am sure you already know there is currently a missing 20 year old female in the Whites.
I'm glad you followed your gut. Winter hiking is a whole other level and I really advise you never go alone! It is also important to become prepared and have a solid plan. Thank you for being humble and putting this out there especially after the recent tragedy. I've come across many hikers in my time that seemed too casual and nonchalant and probably did not respect mother nature and the mountains. I think many underestimate the Whites and don't take it seriously. I get told all the time that "oh 4000ft isn't nothing, thats nothing like Mt. Everest"....anyways stay safe and keep on adventuring!
I'm really proud of you for Turning around. It's really hard to abandon a hike for safety reasons. I was trying to finish the Vermont Long trail this fall, I had 120 left to go. I got caught in a thunderstorm coming down from Camel's hump and it scared me. I decided I would come down and finish next summer with a friend.
That rock corner is challenging in good weather, hand holds are hidden there and the snow will definitely complicate that section!!!! I also agree with the other comments with the loss of our fellow hiker this past week every hiker needs to be aware of their limits, smart move, nice job, thanks for sharing.
Taylor….beautiful view of the falls. Crampons vs. spikes…the deeper we get into hiking in the winter crampons are a must…they’ll provide so much more confidence when traversing icy patches or navigating the section where you chose to turn back. Ultimately you made the right decision given conditions…thanks for sharing.
I am a solo camper/hiker and have had to turn around a few times for safety. Thanks for posting this as a reminder to always listen to your gut!
Also Glen Ellis was such a fun short hike, I was just there in the Spring!
Good call to turn around! This reminds me of a time when I tried to climb Longs Peak in Colorado in the winter solo. When I go to the crux section of the route (which is an awkward scramble in dry conditions), I managed to climb up the thing, but later on the way down, I couldn't manage a proper way to climb down the section with the snow, and the need for me to keep my gloves on. I ended up just sliding down the section part way. Fortunately the slide was short enough, and had a safe area to stop at the base. If it was higher, sliding like that could have caused an injury. I eventually made my way back down....after losing the trail/route through the snow near timberline....intermittent trees make for deeper snow, and hard to follow trail. My fingers never froze that day, but they stayed really cold for many hours. They didn't get frostbite, but they sustained a cold injury that caused me issues for a few years afterwards. Hiking and climbing in the winter definitely requires an attention to safety details, and a lot of foresight into the sorts of things that could possibly go wrong in the coming hours if certain things aren't taken care of early enough. But this is one of the reasons that I love winter camping so much. It's more of a challenge, but a manageable one. Happy winter trails!
Good for you. While doing our 48 we turned around several times all in the winter, and since then we turned around on Katahdin in July. That's a looong drive to turn around but if it's not right it's not right.
You are a wise hiker Taylor. Cold hands definitely not good for what you were about to ascend. I love Glen Ellis Falls. I was down there in July. Great video. Can't go wrong in The Whites. ✌️
She'd be even wiser if she had a hiking partner. Seems that more often than not , when there is a tragedy the hiker is solo....
I really appreciated your video and proud of you for making the best decision for your safety! I made me feel better about taking a break from my Appalachian Trail thru hike this year as The Whites & southern Maine were too dangerous for my skill level.
The Whites in winter are no joke. Good call on turning back. As you know, there is little to no margin for error. What would be a minor glitch in summer (fall, twist ankle, lack of food, etc) can be life threatening in winter. On winter hikes, I was taught to plan as if I might have to spend the night out there: traction, extra layers, balaclava, goggles, shelter, sleeping bag, stove, food w/ lots of calories that won't freeze, hot drinks, etc. It's a heavier load obv...but can save your life or help you help a fellow hiker. My apologies if I made an incorrect assumption about what you were carrying. Try Rocky Branch to summit Iso in winter! Spectacular hike!
Good idea Taylor. We must know our limitations. I was 💀 when the blooper reel showed ur face. The stare of "oh great" hahaha.
I had planned a winter hike to Isolation and I wanted to do Glen Boulder. But my research indicated that GBT in the winter should be treated as a technical ice climb. So I did it (in VERY early spring) via Rocky Branch Trail. So glad you did the smart thing and recognized your limits.
I love solo hiking, but at the same time I wish I knew people like you so we could hike together!
You made the right decision to turn around. Hiking in winter conditions can be dangerous. I do like to hike solo, but winter in the whites I like to hike with people.
I was in the southern Presi’s this same day doing a southern presi traverse. It was cold, but a fun hike.
Isolation is a tough one in the winter! It is waaay easier to wait until farther into the season when everything is frozen over. I usually don't do much winter hiking until January because shoulder seasons can be really tough and dangerous!
That would require common sense, like NOT climbing a steep rocky climb in new snow, opps must be a millennial doing a youtube hello just stupid but weather is just a construct
Glenn Boulder is fun and even in summer “Hillary” step is a challenge. Great safety call. Rocky Branch as you may know is more the winter route to Iso. The big wind gust heard certainly suggested it on the first peak after the Boulder. Hope you check out both Engine hill bushwhack and Iso express bushwhack. See you out there .
I really enjoy your videos..as an old timer, Florida native, I wouldn’t have gotten out of the car! The area is really pretty
Beautiful falls WOW! Winter brings magic too.... LMNT works so well... Great flavors too. Using it on all my hikes.
Well done! Whether it's an urban environment, scuba diving, hiking in the wilderness, or anything really, your 6th sense is there for a reason. If something doesn't feel right, figure out why or stop! Times I've regretted beating a retreat = 0. Times I've regretted ignoring that inner voice = too many. Even Alex Honnold turned back on his first attempt to free solo El Capitan.
Safety is key. I ordered the LMNT through the other video link of yours and had the mango chili on the AT last weekend. Salty and delicious. Happy trails.🤘🏻🥾⛰️
Very, very clever and experienced thinking from you Taylor! It is always better to stay on the safe side in wilderness. I am a senior hiker from Finland. We have very cold and freezing conditions during wintertime. I have turned back and changed my plans so many times according to wheather & conditions during my hiking and cross country skiing trips. I always have my matches with me in case the fire is needed for getting warm up and signal. All the best and stay safe out there! BR Veijo
Excellent decision! I echo the comments from others that normalizing turning back when conditions aren't optimal is important. I hike in the whites year round and have turned around plenty of times because it just wasn't right. Happy hiking!
Just sitting down to watch this, and my comment is before watching. Glen Boulder to Isolation is a great route. Throw in some extra elevation and hit Boott Spur while you're up there. Makes for a long day in the summer. Winter would make it an excellent challenge. The trip back up, even the view of it, from the Davis Path back up to the Glen Boulder Junction looks quite daunting on your way back.
My winter "hikes" involved long walks in the Chicago area, where indoor cafes and museums were fun destinations. Sometimes the zoo park's animals were out, but usually not. Public transit to return home was always an option, if needed. The snowy scenery and waterfall in this video is beautiful. I would like to see it. Whatever you choose to do, enjoy the day and be safe.
Safety first, especially when out solo. Jeez, I'm so not ready for winter. It's been fairly mild up to this point in Pennsylvania. I'm thankful for that! Have a great week.
Thanks for showing us your hike, and thanks for showing us that you fall and get back up and hike on.
Thanks!
Thank you!!
Prayers go out to the young Lady family during this difficult time!!
Discretion and wisdom are the better part of valor. Glad you opted for a different path :) I did that at Little Jackson in ME not too long ago. Daylight was at a real premium, so I decided to do an about face. There will be another day to tackle it :)
During my first attempt at hiking isolation, I had to turn around at the top section of that same scramble. I was more worried about going back down. It's good to know your limits and put your safety first, especially when hiking solo!
That looks like a real nice hike, I would imagine if you got up there it would’ve been so much tougher coming down best to be safe have a great holiday..
Did enjoy it. Beautiful country side. Thank you
Thank you for sharing your hard work. I look forward to your videos everyday. God Bless Emily Sotelo and her family and friends. Matt from Lynn, Massachusetts
Always be prepared to turn around , weather , obstacles , to crowded your own intuition can save you
Taylor! Somehow I got unsubscribed and haven't seen any videos in a while. This video just popped up and I'm glad to be back. My parents are from NH and I always spent the summers there when growing up. It's awesome seeing you visit all the places I played with my cousins. I just lost my Dad and that makes your videos extra special to me. Makes me really miss the Granite State. Keep up the great work.
I remember that scramble! I’m not a fan of them but getting braver! We hiked this route on October 8th this year, it was our final peak and it was gorgeous up on Davis Path! We have turned around on a hike once before, better safe than sorry, always safety first!
I love this video. In winter mountain climbing, I turn around as often as I summit.
Awesome, honest and a great example for others to follow. Great decisions..... been there, done that an felt defeated. Yet it is the right thing to do. Thanks for sharing your adventures.
Last September my gf and I did Isolation via glen boulder. Let me say this the weather was extreme. High winds ice and lots of water down low. One of the few hikes that are equal to the Dacks of NY.
Better safe than sorry. I hike the Whites in the winter on a regular basis, including Mt Washington, Franconia Ridge and the like, and sometimes you turn around and come back another day. If this was truly your first winter hike you might consider doing some winter hikes with someone more experienced before doing these hikes on your own. Happy trails, nice video.
Just wondering what kind of footwear you are using and did you have micro spikes on? I am asking because i am in the market for winter hiking boots. Good call I turning around. The mountains will always be there, live to hike another day. My first overnight winter backpacking trip j made camp and realized I was not prepared for such cold temps. I packed my gear and hiked out in the dark. Safety first. Thanks for sharing.
GBT has some rough spots year round. Can't imagine with snow and ice. Good call heading back!
Rocky Branch in the winter is beautiful 🤩 you can always try it that route later in the season.
Im sorry i never got the whole solo hike especially in the white mountains so unpredictable weather. Im glad you turned around.We have a log home in the middle of the white mountains so many people injured or killed every year never go alone.
It is always the right decision, dont second guess yoruself in epic conditions. Been up there many times. My first adventure in winter was with my hiking /climbing bud up to Hermit Lake lean-tos at Tucks for a couple of nites dead of winter. below zero temps some wind and a few flurries. There was at least one other party in another lean to . But it was super quiet. My buddy had a goal to do Lions Head solo. So he took off for that w/ double boots. trek poles, crampons, ice axe and plenty of food water and proper clothing- He knew the route like the back of his hand and was very experienced - competent. i 'hiked' , well, more like trudged up to the bowl proper for a bit . No one was skiing due to cloud cover and flat light conditions. Pretty epic to hang and gaze upon the headwall, the wind cutting across the top bulding a huge cornice. After an hour or so it was getting to be dusk so I headed back to the lean-to and my bud hadnt returned yet. Cooking up a now frozen homemade pasta, wondering ho wmy bud was doing all alone up there. Another hour or so he came stomping back to basecamp. " I almost topped out just before the (Alpine) Garden but the wind was brutal coming around that final arete." He had chosen to turn around, so close yet soo far. With the conditions and the slow going he made the right decision, his descent was no picnic either as wind, snow and ice kept the route dicey. All thru dinner he kept saying " brutal, just brutal" . The decision to head back is no laughing matter. Its the differnce between living another day to tackle your goals or throwing fate to the wind literally with the possibility of becoming another SAR Recovery stat. There is no embarrassement, no criticism, defeat, in turning around. Its all a part of mountain experience : The journey is more important than the summit.
Take great care. You made a very smart decision. The Whites will punish complacent hikers severely who do not pay proper respect for these elements. Praying that they find the missing girl on Haystack/Lafayette.
This is a video of a smart, experienced hiker!
Thanks for sharing and willing to show that sometimes plans change for safety reasons.
That spot is difficult on Glen Boulder trail; I did it in the summer with my girlfriend and it was a struggle for her. You did awesome!
You were quite ambitious. Mt. Isolation. Good choice on turning around. When I am hesitating about turning around, I think, will I become an incident covered no North Woods Law? Is this really how I want to meet Glen Lucas?
actually at 3:50 you are fortunately, on you way back down the trail!! All hikers have had disappointments. May you have more! Hikes and disappointments.
I once tried to hike Mount Washington to be at the top for the '95 Labor Day bike race. In the valley it was 70 and partly cloudy. By 4,000 feet it was like walking up a trout stream and I turned around. Found out later that conditions at the top were freezing with rain blowing sideways.
You always have to be ready to turn back.
Another time a girlfriend and I were on a three day trip in the whites. The first night a bear found the rope that held our food hung over the creek from a branch. The only thing left in the morning was a torn open canvas bag still tied to the rope with the branch pulled down and neat pile of sliced cheese wrappers. Once again, you have to be ready to turn back. We turned back on empty stomachs.
Imagine the intelligence of a bear knowing after eating the sliced cheese wrappers previously that it didn't do it again.
those who try but turn away live to try another day... so all good. glen ellis falls is simply beautiful. well done 👍
Thank you for sharing. No shame in knowing your limits Like the Conservation Officer said yesterday after finding Emily, “no shame in turning back. The mountain will be there tomorrow “.
Love this though, props. Goin up Thursday to do a mountain, love it up there, love the snow
Nice to see the trails in winter. I was at glen ellis falls in July and it was very busy. You have been fortunate to get it to yourself.
I just hiked the Tripyramids last weekend! Lots of snow and without proper gear, would’ve been super scary (22 degrees but thankfully no wind). Love this video! We should hike together😊❄️
Thanks Taylor, you made a good decision. There will be another day. If you tried to force your own way over this obstacle, something really bad could have happened.
Thanks for staying safe.
Some winter hiking tips. When the temperature is below freezing store your water bottles up side down. Ice forms at the top, and when it is upside down, the top is the bottom. It allows you to keep drinking. I have not been in the whites this winter, but have been in the whites, greens, and the ADKs in the winter 100s of times, if there is 4" at the bottom, there is likely more than a foot of snow at the top. You should have had snow shoes. Micro spikes might have helped. Crampon for sure would have helped. Also hiking an unfamiliar trail in the fall OR early winter especially without a lot of traffic, it is difficult to follow a trail. In the summer we can see scrapes from poles and warn rocks from thousands of previous hikers. You made the right call to stop the hike. Your gloves looked to not be up to the task. Synthetic mittens are quite nice, and provide more dexterity than one would expect. When rock climbing , with some practice, you can get very good hand holds, as good as you can with gloves. I resisted mitten for a long time, and since I switched I have never looked back. One last note - that is a tough trail in icy conditions. When I did it in the winter I have crampons and an ice axe. I did not use them, but it a must carry. It is a pretty hike. Cheers.
Thanks for the tips. I did have crampons and a better set of gloves in my pack
Cool video that water fall was awesome but yeah smart move on turning back always carry that Garmin in reach
I think you made a good choice solo. I’ve turned around more times than making it in the Whites in the winter. It’s much better to be safe.
It was best you did turn back. I know I would have. Sometimes it is best to go with the gut instincts. LMNT is great stuff. I found that it really does help. I noticed I barely get cramps in my legs when I go to bed here at home or in the mountains. That reminds me I need to order more. Be safe in your hikes.