I’d never heard of the Snowman Trek until recently but as I’ve read more about it I’ve become fascinated by the challenge involved in completing it. It’s not something I’m ever going to manage but for those who do, I imagine it’ll be one of the highlights of their life. Considered the “hardest trek in the world,” more people reach the summit of Mt. Everest than complete this trek. If you do decide to test your endurance, here are some of the highlights.
- Trekking through the Himalayas, you’ll be walking through amazing vistas of towering peaks every day. The photo ops will be countless!
- The terrain will include dense bamboo and cedar forests, waterfalls, turquoise-colored lakes, hot springs and glaciers.
- You’ll be traversing not one, not two, but 11 mountain passes, ascending and descending thousands of feet at every pass. The highest point you’ll reach is approximately 18,000 feet. Imagine the feeling of accomplishment!
- You’ll be walking a path steeped in thousands of years of history and following in the footsteps of Mongol invaders, traders, pilgrims and Tibetan refugees.
- You could potentially encounter extremely rare wildlife. Former trekkers have sighted the Himalayan black bear, snow leopard, tigers, yak and Himalayan blue sheep.
- You’ll visit the camps of local yak herders – there’s nothing like a bare-bones existence to make you appreciate your own lifestyle!
- You won’t be carrying anything heavier than your day pack. Your luggage is transported in by ponies and porters.
- Although you’ll be camping, all your meals are prepared for you. And you’ll be well fed as you need lots of fuel to stay in top shape for the daily hike.
- You’ll have a few days before and after the trek for sightseeing in Bhutan and learning about its culture and heritage. You should even have time to take your weary body to a spa and indulge in a hot stone massage.
- Did I mention the feeling of accomplishment you’ll have when you finish? The fact that you’ve pushed yourself to trek 220 miles through the Himalayas allows you to join a select few Westerners who have achieved this. You might even write a book about your adventures – it’s been done before.
If you’re interested in joining Beth on this adventure or on any of our less extreme adventures (see the full list to the left), give us a call (206-317-1860) or Contact Us via email and we’ll be happy to answer any questions you might have!
Embrace life,
Pat
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Photo Credit: Ryan Goebel
