Join us for a “Short n Steep” hike up Hi-Cannon and down via Lonesome Lake. Cannon is a classic and popular 4k footer with beautiful views. While the hike is on the shorter side, it is very steep, so be prepared to be agile with your layering and de-layering so that we can take efficient breaks. While not above treeline, Cannon is known for high winds and generally rugged conditions. Be prepared to dress warmly with many layers, especially a shell layer for the wind. We’ll take in the nice views, and potentially stop at the summit ski lodge to get some hot chocolate. Then, we’ll head back along the ridge and descend via Lonesome Lake and back to the parking lot. The route is around 5 miles (total) with 2.4k ft of elevation.

You would be a good fit for this hike if you have experience in 3S hikes of similar distance and elevation, or some prior winter hiking experience. Prior winter hiking experience is not a prerequisite, but we do require that you have attended the winter safety lectures. Insulated boots are a must. While the hike is not long, it is a particularly steep trail and a good baseline level of cardio fitness is advised. If you do not feel that you meet these hiking prerequisites but want to come on the hike, please email the trip leaders with details about what your weekly fitness routine looks like.

For this hike, we expect to be using microspikes and snowshoes for traction, but will make a judgement call closer to the trip date based on trail conditions. If you are new to winter hiking, this is a great opportunity to get experience with different types of traction. If particularly icy weather occurs, we will bring crampons as well.

We will have a pre-trip meeting at 6:30pm on Thursday, December 4th outside the MITOC office where you will have the opportunity to rent gear if needed.