Mt. Washington NH - Winter Lion Head

This video was shot during the AMC Above Treeline Leader Training Program the weekend of January 28-29 2023. The workshop focused on above treeline skills including using crampons, ice axes, proper layering and communication.
On January 28, 2023 we reviewed basic crampon/ice axe use and self arrest (not in this video). The goal January 29 was to go as high up 6288' Mt. Washington as we could safely do.
The forecast was for summit winds over 80 mph. With this, our goal was to reach Lion Head at 5091'.
The video shows the group gaining confidence during the climb and how weather conditions can change from below to above treeline. The above treeline experience was raw and beautiful.
Please remember there are frequent hiker/climber rescues in the White Mountains and an average of 22 people have died in the past 4 years.

[@UAPReportingCenter]

Thanks! Mt Washington is on my summit list for this winter.

[@wagzzzz]

Good video. My first hike ever was a guided winter MW ascent. We were walking across the alpine garden and I asked the guide why we were hiking so close to the edge of the ravine? He said “that’s where the trail is”. I said “good answer” lol.

[@Dennis-cv5tm]

Definitely doing this one day. Thanks for posting!

[@mobilewintercamp7515]

Me too 😊

[@gblakney]

This is my personal goal for all my summer and fall backpacking: climbing Mt. Washington in the winter. This is on my bucket list.

[@MrRobertz2012]

Climbing Mt. Washington in Winter was on my bucket list for years, but I wanted to do it safely. In 2008 I joined the Appalachian Mountain Club and signed up for the Boston Chapter Winter Hiking Program. Experienced Leaders taught me about winter hiking in the Whites. The Above Treeline Workshop is part of the WHP, and a chance to climb Washington with experienced guides. I highly recommend the Boston AMC Winter Hiking program if you want to winter hike in the White Mountains. The program starts with "classroom" training in the Fall and includes hikes of increasing in difficulty, including Mt. Washington in Above Treeline Workshop. Note, the program fills up quickly. Winter hiking above treeline can include significant unexpected risks, be safe, go with experienced guides.

[@gblakney]

@@MrRobertz2012 Thank you so much for your response! I joined the AMC this past winter, and I'm on the lookout for the sign-up window to the WHP. My hiking experience began in High School, but had faded by the end of college. I climbed Mt. Tom this past March, and I'm signed up for an overnight next weekend with REI. I agree 100% with the need for training, guided trips, and a firm commitment to a turn-around time, or to retreat before that time if the weather turns. I genuinely appreciate you input and I hope to meet you on the trail!

[@MrRobertz2012]

@@gblakney Hope to see you at the coming Winter Hiking Program, but lets get through summer first.

[@farbeyonddriven8173]

The "highest" 5100 ever LOL I had a bluebird day. Thanks for filming

[@farbeyonddriven8173]

@RIP Lil Peep but Lion Head isn’t

[@MrRobertz2012]

Lion Head (5091') is a very distinctive landmark (a rock formation, see video) on an eastern approach to Mount Washington (6288’). Lions Head overlooks Tuckerman's Ravine from the north. The winter Lion Head Trail passes through Lion Head and is intended to keep you out of Tuckerman’s Ravine and reduce the avalanche risk climbing Washington from the east. The rock formation provides some protection from the wind and is often a place to take breaks or consider turning around before exposure to the Alpine Garden where winds are often strong before you are protected by the summit dome and before you summit where winds are strongest. Monroe is on the Western approach to Washington and would not typically involve Lions Head unless you are doing a traverse. Best to take a look at a map.

[@gblakney]

gear list? Great video! Thanks for taking us along! That hard stop at 1:00 to turn around is key; the mountain will be there tomorrow!

[@nicksterling2652]

That's what it's all about nothing but a great time 🤙

[@MrRobertz2012]

Thanks Nick. When it comes to winter hiking, the increase risk needs to be considered always keeping in mind that, as you say, the goal is having a great time.

[@rootsandpeaks]

I’m planning a Mt Washington adventure / documentary and loved this video. Are you teaching mountaineering through AMC? It’s love to talk to you about it, if you are!

[@MrRobertz2012]

Glad you "loved" it! Yes, I am one of the AMC Leaders that teach mountaineering. Provide your email and I will contact you.

[@gkookies1254]

👍

[@craigcampbell6961]

do you mean 22 died each year for 4 years (total 88) or 22 died over 4 years? What gear did you take? Were you prepared to camp overnight?

[@MrRobertz2012]

The numbers aren't simple, a quick search again: "According to Lieutenant James Kneeland of New Hampshire Fish and Game, 24 of the department's search missions across the state ended with fatalities in 2021, 22 in 2020, and 20 in 2019. (The deaths aren't only of hikers; they include drownings, suicides, and other accidents.)Jan 24, 2023" I always take equipment to survive the night when I hike the Whites. In winter this includes a 0 deg. bag, Bothy bag, ground pad, extra layers depending on expected temperature. I expect the leaders on my hikes to do the same to deal with an injury or unexpected event. I don't pack light and fast, I pack safe and survive. If I can't carry it I should go home.