Adirondack Peeks Winter 2025

Dear Editors, I’ve been enjoying PEEKS under your leadership. I especially enjoyed the conversation with Tony Goodwin in the latest issue. But I do have one suggestion. With the large number of 46ers in recent years, I can understand the decision to trim down the information given on the finishers, to save space in the magazine. And I don’t miss some of the information, like the first or last mountain climbed. The date of finishing might be interesting, but I can do without that. But just listing the name, as done in the Summer 2025 issue, seems too little. For one thing, there may be multiple people with the same name. But what I really miss is the city and state of the finishers. I was in the habit of skimming through the list, looking at the hometowns until I saw one near me, and then looking to see if I knew the person. So I’d like to suggest that for 2026 you list the person’s name with their city and state. That would also help clarify any name duplicates, especially of common names. It would take a bit more space, but I think it would be worthwhile. Thanks for considering this idea, and I look forward to your next issue! Peter Collinge #10082 In the summer 2025 issue, the “Finishers” were listed beginning on page 41. I used to look forward to the extra information that was formerly contained in the list. I especially loved seeing where people were from (city and state, final peak, etc.). Would love to see this information returned for the next “Finishers” listings. Additional: I began (and completed) my 46er quest many years ago. I went on to complete many other hiking challenges, (fire tower, Lake George 12ster, Lake Placid 9er, Saranac Lake 6er etc. I stopped counting my summits years ago. I remain an active hiker to this day, but I’m very happy I completed my major quests when I did. I personally feel that there was a different type of hiker years ago. I remember the vast majority of hikers being friendly, talkative and united in a common goal. Even in the parking lots, as folks readied their gear, people were enthusiastic, social, interested in each other’s destinations, we’d ask where each other was from, etc. It almost seemed like “tailgating” before the hike. Nowadays, I often meet hikers on the trail who nearly run into you because they’re staring at their cell phones. Many don’t look up, say hello, or even try to acknowledge a fellow hiker walking within feet of them. It’s like walking down the streets of a major metropolitan city. Some of them have children along and it seems that parents are modeling

Hello Editors,

I hope all is well! Photos featuring me, Sarah Stapleton, #15643, and best friend Will Haviland, #15642. My first high peak on Whiteface 45–55mph winds. All the best and thank you for all you do to publish this magazine! Sarah Stapleton & Will

their kids to do as they do. Are we taking the whole “don’t talk to strangers” thing too literally? I’ve always made a point to greet fellow hikers. Sometimes I get a response, sometimes it’s something that sounds like a grunt, and every once in a while I’m pleasantly surprised by an individual or group that not only exchange friendly greetings, but even like to chat a bit before continuing on (a recent encounter with some college age folks was encouraging). Years ago, once reaching a summit, I generally found people used to be very communicative, offer to take each other’s photos, become friends, etc. Not so much anymore, but I’ll be the one still offering a friendly greeting, maybe some encouraging words, and of course, I’ll be happy to take time to take your picture. “Happy” trails. Terry Clement #6876 Tupper Lake, NY

Response from Editor Hi Terry,

Consider your request for the Finisher’s Report done! I really appreciate your suggestion. I received another letter with the exact request. Keep your suggestions coming, Sherry Roulston

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