The first two miles on the evergreen path are moderately steep and then upon reaching the steeps of the mountain, I continue, struggling upwards on the south face, arriving at the tree line and then continue up to the table top, a treeless plateau. As I begin walking eastward on the ridgelidge path, the temperature drops quickly, the wind here bitterly cold and biting at every bit of exposed skin.

I quicken the pace and soon reach Thoreau Spring, stopping briefly to read the sign which tells me that the summit is still a mile to the east.

Soon after I awake, sleet begins falling, then heavy snow so I break camp immediately, stow my gear, don my backpack, and begin walking. As I begin taking steps, the temperature drops apace. Because of not being outfitted for winter travel or camping, I must needs find a path off this mountain.

What I am experiencing now as I depart from my camp is a white winter quietness so wonderfully beautiful and peaceful. However, it is a deceptive peacefulness. As I have learned in previous winter conditions, I must needs keep walking so as not to fall victim to the deceit that the boreal wind portrays.