Headed to PA on 1.11.2026 for a 13 mile hike

 Stay tuned folks!

First Hike of 2026 11.9 Miler in the CVNP

I chose to wake up and drive over to the Cuyahoga Valley National Park. The overnight low was going to be 18 degrees.

I knew that only the silliest of hikers would be out this morning. I saw four woman that must have started when the sun came up lol. They were in their 70’s you go girls!!!

One of the hardest things I think of while hiking below freezing temps is how do I dress?

I carry a pack so I can always take layers off, but if you leave it in the car, you can never have it. So, with that said you need to think of what your pace is going to be and will the heat transfer adequately enough so that your skin stays relatively dry enough.

If the sweat stays on your skin because of the clothing you’re wearing will not allow the sweat to transfer though your layers you will be miserable and cold!!!

I had chosen a nearly 12-mile hike. I had to create this trail loop because it’s a combination of three trails.  The two trails are The Wetmore Bridal, Lake and Salt Run, and part of the Cross Country Trail.

I saw several deer foraging in the woods for food. I did see all kinds of small birds. It was supposed to get to 25 degrees, and I can attest that did not happen ..lol….