Hiking up mountains can be tough at the best of times, but when you throw in knee deep snow, howling winds, steep climbs and a freezing climate; it’s certainly a challenge.

With the captain Andrew Swallow out in front, a group of about 55 began to ascend Bald Mountain (9,400ft above sea level).

The incline started out easily enough, but got steeper and steeper every step of the way.

North Melbourne ruck coach Alex Ishchenko thought ahead and brought a walking pole to assist him up the slopes, while the players and staff had to dig deep in order to pave the way.

With the snow as thick as it was, following in another person’s footprints is the best way to avoid sinking down into the icy ground cover.

But for those in the front, there’s no such option.

Instead, they’re charged with the responsibility of carving out a path for the rest. That meant getting down on their hands and knees in some instances. Some even fell over completely when the snow gave way beneath them.

Making matters worse, some of the players ended up with 'wind burn' after their journey.

Drew Petrie and Aaron Black just two of them.

"Absolutely wrecked after that hike," Aaron Black (@aarondblack35) said on Twitter using the hashtags '#sorelegs' #windburn' and '#tired'.

"...wind burn nailed me as well," Drew Petrie (@drewpetrie20) replied.

"Amazing views up the top of the Utah mountains. Nearly killed me getting up there tho (sic)!"

Check out the best photos of the climb below.