This list is not meant to replace proper training and knowledge of the environment you were entering into. It will not protect you in the case of extremely severe weather. It is your responsibility to have proper knowledge and training to travel above tree line in winter.

This is my basic equipment list for travel above tree line in the winter.

This list does not assure that you will have what is absolutely necessary in the case of an emergency.

I always check the weather conditions from the Summer Mount Washington by either going to their website or texting Washington Observatory at 603-356-2137 and putting in the body of the text either forecast (for the short forecast) or weather forecast (for the long forecast).

I always check the US forest service avalanche report before I go above tree line in winter. https://www.mountwashingtonavalanchecenter.org/forecasts/#/presidential-range

For the technical gear listed below such as ice axe and crampons, you must have them and know how to use them.

It is your responsibility to have the proper equipment and to know how to use it. You must access information as to weather and avalanche conditions before you head up.

Skin Layers: Any One of the following. Items should be Synthetic wicking polyester.

       Lightweight synthetic long underwear Top, long sleeve

       Midweight synthetic long underwear top. Long sleeve

       Heavyweight synthetic long underwear top.  Long sleeve

Mid Layers: Any One of the following. Items should be Synthetic wicking polyester. 

       Midweight synthetic long underwear top. Long sleeve,

       Heavyweight synthetic long underwear top.  Long sleeve,

Insulation Layers: Both of the following. 

       200-300 weight Polar Fleece or similar jacket. Pullover or zip up)

       Down or Prima-loft sweater or vest.

Bottom Layers:  Both of the following. Items should be Synthetic wicking polyester. 

       Lightweight or Midweight synthetic long underwear Bottom.

       Heavyweight synthetic bottom, pants, or bibs.

Outer Layer: Wind and Water 

       Gore-tex or other waterproof/breathable wind shell with secure hood. Pullover or zip front

       Gore-tex or other waterproof/breathable wind pants or bibs, full side zips best.

Hands:

       Heavy gloves, a gore-tex winter glove system.

       Heavy Mittens, Insulated or Gore-tex shell and liners.

Face, eyes and ears, feet and other:

       Synthetic or wool hat or balaclava.

       Ski Goggles

       Facemask (how to prepare facemask for winter conditions) (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L3y9TQNW6pI)

Headlamp or flashlight

One pair heavy wool or synthetic socks.

High boot gaiters (covers boot top to knee

 1 or 2 liter large-mouth water bottles with warm water.

Food for the day

       Food for the day  / bring more than you think you’ll need.

      Something like a peanut butter sandwich

      Cliff bars, power bars, whatever type of energy bar you like.

           I packed these next to my water bottle which I have warm water in, so they don’t freeze solid.

      Granola, with salted nuts, chocolate, raisins, or other dried fruit in an accessible container

 2500-4000 ci pack w/straps for crampons.

Chemical heat packs:

Winter mountaineering boots I recommended EMS REI, IME for rental,

When I take trips up, Mount Washington in winter, all of my clients are wearing double winter mountaineering boots.

Crampons Micro spikes will not suffice on steep hardpacked snow or above tree line.

Ice Axe 65-75cm

In addition to these, these items should be carried within your group.

      First aid kit

      Extra mittens

      Extra goggles

      Extra headlamp

      Extra prima loft jacket

      An expedition weight down parka or sleeping bag.

      Bivouac sack

      Shovel

      Map and compass

      GPS

      Extra heat packs

      Small Stove (jetBoil or similar)

Extra food