From the Himalayas to the High Peaks

Last year, I hiked to Everest Base Camp. Now, I’ve set a new goal: to climb all 46 High Peaks of the Adirondacks - one summit at a time.

Training for the Himalayas and reaching 5,364 meters was my first real introduction to hiking, and the experience set me on a new path. Just a few months later, I returned to Nepal for another hiking adventure. This year, I’m taking on a new challenge. Tackling the 46 High Peaks will take a lot of planning, commitment, and determination.

The highest Adirondack peak - Mount Marcy - tops out at 1,629 meters, nowhere near Everest Base Camp’s elevation. Yet, summiting all 46 peaks is a different kind of challenge and a much longer commitment. I will fit in in on weekends and during the short stretch of the year when the weather cooperates. Not to mention that many of the peaks are only accessible via herd paths: unmarked, unofficial trails. At this point, I am ignoring the fact that I may have to camp overnight for some of the peaks and that the risk of encountering a black bear is not absent.

Despite the challenges ahead or maybe because of them, I am excited. The Adirondacks are beautiful, and I am looking forward to the adventure and the time spent in nature.