The frozen fog that recently blanketed this area under a temperature inversion was beautiful (ice crystals hanging in the air glittering in the lights like fairy dust) but really, really cold. And, as it settled in a shimmering curtain on the ground, amazingly slippery.

Be aware of your footing in icy conditions. Walking with hiking poles can save your hip or leg:

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•They provide better balance and footing.
•On downhill hikes especially, they decrease the amount of stress on your legs and joints.
•On uphill climbs, poles transfer some of your weight to your shoulders, arms and back, which can reduce leg fatigue and add thrust to your ascents.
•They make crossing streams, loose rocks and slippery surfaces such as ice and snow patches easier and safer.
•They help you establish a walking rhythm.
•They can push back overhanging vegetation from the trail and probe soggy terrain for holes and boggy spots.