Adirondack Peeks Winter 2025

It seems inevitable to me that people who have spent a lot of time in the High Peaks will develop a tremendous sense of respect for the Adirondack wilderness, and appreciation for the efforts of so many people and organizations, like the 46ers, that work on trails, provide hiking education, and walk along the highway picking up litter. Members of the 46er organization give about 5,000 hours per year to those causes — truly amazing! Additionally, financial contributions from our membership have allowed us to support other organizations. In the 2020s, we have donated more than $500,000 to Adirondack not-for-profit organizations to support trailwork, education and other important initiatives. I’m so grateful for my relationship with the 46ers and to be a part of a team that does such incredible things. Thank you, thank you, thank you, to all of you who make this possible. While I have been hiking for less than a decade, I’m sure that I’ve been out hiking several hundred days during

that time, and have met thousands of people along the way. It’s heartwarming how quickly those casual meetings result in a friendly smile, or easy conversation, or funny story and, not infrequently, compassion or willingness to help another hiker through some issue. There were many days when I needed some assistance and it’s been my pleasure to help others when they needed it. I think being outside for these chance encounters and being off the grid causes us to focus on how we are alike, instead of different opinions that we may have. Our world needs more of that. Who knows? Maybe it’s possible that two winter hikers with different opinions on the best brand of microspikes could find common ground on the joys of winter hiking. Well, that might be a high bar to set! During this busy holiday season, I wish you much health, happiness and togetherness and, if some of the conversations become too intense, turn off your phone, don your boots and winter gear, and go for a nice peaceful walk in the snow. Happy holidays!

Dave Pawlick #12803, Gary Koch #1137WV, Judy Bechard #9645 - Photo Credit - Nancie Battaglia, #3543

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