Summary

“I speak for the trees, for the trees have no tongues.”
? Dr. Seuss, The Lorax

Okemo Moutain (aka Ludlow Mountain): Via Healdville Trail.

• Elevation (highest point) 3320ft – Okemo summit
• Total distance to highest elevation – 3 miles
• Total Distance is 6 miles.

This trip is considered MODERATE. Steep grade, distance, pace, exposure, and weather are all factors. Climbers should be comfortable with steady, consistent pace and possible winter conditions.

CAUTION! Fire Tower access, not ideal if you have a FEAR of heights.  

Group will meet at the Healdville Trail Head at 9am.

Trail Details and Distances:

            Steady hike to access the summit. Steep, narrow, and rocky sections. Some water crossings.       

PREPARATION/WHAT TO BRING: Green Mountains can and do have unpredictable and extreme weather changes year-round. Do not be fooled by lower elevation weather. Weather in higher elevations can be very tricky and unstable. It is recommended that hikers:

• Have extra dry clothing, sun, and wind protection.
• Minimum of 2 liters of water
• Expect possible winter conditions.
• It is highly recommended to bring a BLISTER KIT (DIY kits online). DO NOT wear brand-new footwear, foot first aid will be necessary.
• If you need suggestions on what to bring, PLEASE ASK!!
• Due to hiker volume and food services, DO NOT BRING DOGS!

For this trip it is important to bring along flexibility, patience, and a sense of humor.

Covid – This is a popular destination spot for hikers.

• Please bring a mask for the use when in close proximity to others.
• Respect people’s space
• There are a variety of mask styles to match the variety of covid opinions. Let’s be safe and respect others. We are not the only people on the trail.

Group Size: It is not fun leaving folks out of trips.

• PLEASE cancel so others may join. If you are on the waiting list, please contact me the days prior to the trip, most likely there is room and if needed this trail will allow us to break the group into smaller groups. 
• Decreasing the impact to the environment is always a priority! Above tree line it is vital to stick to the paths and rocks. Do not stray.
• Please plan to “carry in and carry out” all items. It may also be possible to collect other hikers’ debris along the way.

Weather: The weather for this trip will be monitored the week prior. If it is a concern any updates or cancellation information will be posted by the Friday prior by 6pm. If it is a cancellation, it will include a rescheduled date so participants can watch for that opportunity.

For weather details.

• (NH) Mt Washington Observatory  www.mountwashington.org
• (VT) Fairbanks Museum   www.fairbanksmuseum.org/eye-on-the-sky
• National Weather Service – NOAA www.weather.gov
• (GA) Weather www.weather.com

Safety is a priority! Any time a hiker is injured or lost a HUGE team of volunteers is dispatched to aid in the search and rescue efforts.

• No one wants to be injured or put other in harm’s way.
• Always be prepared. Know your limits.
• Any questions feel free to contact me.

After trip social: Social gathering is possible and welcome. There are several food and beverage options. Pizza and tail gate gathering could be arranged if folks wish to do so. Discussion is open to possible overnight arrangements.

Overnight Accommodations: Trip leader and some participants will be staying at the Mountainside Campgroup in Hinsdale NH. Cabin, RV or tent site rentals available. Others are welcome to stay as well, and arrangements must be made directly with campground. Accommodations are excellent and affordable.

Resources used to plan this trip:

• AMC White Mountain Guide, 30th addition.
• Alltrails.com  
• AMC Vermont Guide

Group will meet at the Healdville Trail Head at 9am.

Directions To Trailhead Parking Lot

Group will meet at the Healdville Trail Head at 9am.

Where to meet: Trail parking is located off Station Road in Healdville, just outside of Mt Holly VT.