Join us to search for orchids on Osceola and East Osceola! Orchids are the largest family of flowering plants. At least four orchid species grow within the Arctic Circle, and some orchids are known to grow at up to 15,000 ft elevation, so we're going to find out if any grow on the Osceolas in February. We'll also enjoy orchid-themed snacks (i.e., vanilla) in case no orchids are found.

This trip is not part of winter circus; we will be driving back Saturday night.

Details

We’ll be hiking two 4,000-footers, East Osceola and Osceola. This will be a moderate to difficult trip of 7.6 miles and 3,100 feet of elevation gain. The trail is steep and may require crampons. We are looking for participants who have done similarly difficult 3-season hikes and are eager to try out a hike with steep, icy sections. Alltrails: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/new-hampshire/mount-osceola-via-greeley-pond-trail

Requirements

Previous winter hike experience is encouraged, or confidence in your ability to layer in cold weather. You should also feel confident hiking similar mileage and elevation gain with a moderately heavy backpack during any season.

We’ll be using microspikes and potentially snowshoes and crampons, depending on the conditions, but previous experience with these traction methods is not required.

Please budget for the following expenses: $5 trip fee, $20-50 carpooling costs, up to $15 for gear rentals, potentially extra if you want to buy food at a rest stop. If you are an MIT undergrad, financial aid may be available.

Logistics

We will need drivers for this trip! Please update your car status if you can drive others. If not, please select “not driving” or “will drive self.” You must be prepared to rent a car if you have selected “willing to rent.” (MIT provides discounted car rental to affiliates, and we will evenly split rental/gas costs). There will be a mandatory pre-trip meeting on Thursday at 9 pm. There will be time to rent gear during/after the meeting.