Three Granby scouts were with Simsbury’s Troop 76 when they all reached the 6,288-foot summit of Mount Washington on Feb. 14, capping a rigorous multi-day winter expedition that included two nights of camping in harsh alpine conditions.
Noah Woodman, Landon DaFonseca and Amelia Hosack, members of the troop’s high adventure crew, ascended via the Lion Head Winter Route, which is a demanding path known for its steep, exposed sections requiring crampons, ice axes and careful navigation. The climb featured roughly 4,250 feet of elevation gain over challenging terrain, with sustained winds of 30–45 mph and gusts up to 50–60 mph whipping across the open slopes above tree line. At night temperatures plunged well into the single digits, creating wind chills in dangerous territory.
Before the summit push, the group camped at Hermit Lake Shelters (elevation about 3,900 feet), a rustic backcountry site with lean-to shelters and tent platforms in the Tuckerman Ravine area. Winter camping there is no easy feat: deep snow, sub-zero nights, high winds and the need for specialized gear make it a test of endurance and preparation. The scouts were well prepared, and relied on proper layering, high-energy no-cook meals and teamwork to stay warm and fueled while navigating the extreme environment.
Mount Washington, notorious as the “home of the world’s worst weather,” demands respect in winter, where conditions can turn life-threatening quickly. This multi-day achievement by the young climbers stands as a significant accomplishment, highlighting youth perseverance in responsible, high-stakes mountaineering. Noah, Landon and Millie showed remarkable determination, pushing through the steep, technical sections of the Lion Head route that includes a grueling 1,000-foot gain in a half-mile stretch above the tree line, to stand proudly atop the Northeast’s highest peak. Their success underscores the intensive outdoor training, physical conditioning and scout spirit emphasized in Troop 76’s unique character.
Are you interested in adventures like this? Simsbury’s Troop 76 (with separate troops for boys and girls) welcomes youth ages 11–17 (or those who have completed fifth grade) to join its scout-led program, offering camping, numerous high-adventure trips, community service, leadership development and more since 1921. For details on joining or attending a meeting, email troop76recruiting@gmail.com You can also check out photos of recent adventures or contact them at their Facebook page at facebook.com/troop76simsbury
Submitted by Darren Woodman