Let's hike Merrell Trail ! 8320 Belmont Ave NE Belmont

Let's get out and do some hiking !

I was out here Friday, and it was just lovely.

I had traction spikes on my boots and trekking poles. I recommend both.

They had groomed the main trail for bikes, so I didn't need gaiters, but if you're concerned about snow in your boots, you might wear some.

Never hiked in the winter ?
No problem.
Just layer up.

My feet rarely get cold, so my regular wool socks are just fine.

Leggings under hiking pants or insulated pants are good.

I wear a couple different layers under my coat because if my torso is warm, I'm warm.

I usually bring a light backpack so I can stuff layers in my backpack as I warm up. (I don't like wrapping things around my waist.)

My fingers get cold, so I always have gloves and glove liners.

A hat is REALLY important when it's cold out.

A scarf or buff is a good idea for your neck and lower face.

Other than that, it's all good !

Because of the snow, our pace is slower and our mileage shorter. We'll hike for an hour then turn around and hike back to the parking lot.

I highly recommend that you bring water even if you think you don't need it in the winter. You do. I will take a quick break every 20 minutes or so to rest and drink some water. You might want to bring a small snack.

When I was out here Friday, the parking lot was not yet plowed. I had to have a friend with an SUV pick me up down the block. I'll get out here early Tues and check out out. Please check this post Tues morning to see if we need to make any adjustments.

As always, I recommend that you bring this trail up on AllTrails before you arrive at the trailhead.

I'll have a dark blue Honda Accord or white Honda Pilot. Please text/call me at 616 446 8102 if you have questions.

See you all out on the trail.