Fall & Winter Running (October thru March)  Back

		Fall & winter running on the mountain is exhilarating. Regardless of the weather conditions, you will always find a few Striders on the mountain every Saturday morning. (click the photos to see a larger view).
			Winter does require some extra preparation.  Hunting season means wearing something bright.  The cold temperatures are not as bad as you might expect, as the trees break the harsh wind.  Nevertheless, it is prudent to wear layered clothing that offers adequate protection.  Whistles and cell phones are handy to avoid a bad situation should you be injured.
			Runners often "cleat" their shoes by screwing #6 3/8" sheet metal screws into the soles.  This is very effective. (Hint: pre-drilling with a tiny drill will make it easier to get the screws in.)
			Another trick is to use YakTrax Walkers, about $20 in outdoor stores.
			As Casey has found out, puddles sometimes freeze over, and then the remaining water drains out from under the ice.
			Inviting woods roads look safe, but can be covered with annoying ice patches.
			However you go, hike, run, snowshoe, ski, the winter scenery on the mountain will bring you back over and over again.
			A lone runner descends the road from the summit on a icy surface.
			Killer Hill is covered with snow.  The toughest ascent of the Soapstone 1/2 Marathon is even tougher in the winter.
			Outhouse near the summit. Facilities are primitive.  It is best to "bring your own roll".
			Parking lot at the summit is reachable by car in the warmer months.  (The packed snow is from snowmobiles).  The radar tower is visible through the trees. The roads are un-plowed and un-treated during the winter months.  DO NOT attempt to drive on the mountain in the winter.
			On the summit is a radar tower that was once the "Weather Radar" for Channel 3 before the Doppler system at Bradley Field took over.
			Just beyond the summit is a lookout tower with great views of the Connecticut River Valley.
			Harold walks on the trail that circles the base of the mountain.
			Finishing a hike over the summit and around the west side of the base trail, this pretty section brings you back to your car at the lower parking lot.

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