If you look outside, or better yet you ARE outside, it certainly looks and feels like the winter season is in full swing. However, according to the calendar, it is still late fall. Winter officially arrives this year on Dec. 22 at 0108 EST. This is important for the peak-baggers in the crowd as according to the official 4,000-footer rules, “Trips must begin after the hour and the minute of the beginning of winter (winter solstice), and end before the hour and minute of the end of winter (spring equinox)” to qualify as a “winter hike.” It’s not just when you are at the peak. For more information on peak-bagging rules, you can visit the Peak-bagging rules website for more information. So, get out and enjoy the snow, and winter will be here before you know it!