[cdt-l] Snow Shoes & ice axe

[Jonathan Ley]

Dan,

Good luck in '09. I think it's pretty safe to say that you wouldn't need
either snow shoes or an ice axe to hike either the CT (or CDT in Colorado)
in August/September. You'd really only need snow shoes in the winter or
spring, when the snow pack is deep and un-consolidated. Speaking generally,
you might need an ice ax until ~June in a few places. 

If you know how to walk, you know how to snowshoe. And it's unusual to ever
use/need them for a long distance hike (though, they can be helpful for
late-spring mountain travel through sloppy snow). If you're doing a long
distance hike in the winter in the mountains, there are all kinds of other
things you need to be aware of (avalanches, cold, etc).

As for ice axe training... depends where you live, but most places near
mountains will have some local organization doing winter snow-travel
courses, just look for one. Learning how to use an ice axe is not rocket
science, but it is important to practice & know what you're doing... because
if you're in a situation where you do need an ice axe (i.e. traversing
across steep icy snow), knowledge of how to use it (or more often, knowledge
of what is/isn't dangerous or above your skill level) can save your life. 

-Jonathan

-----Original Message-----
From: cdt-l-bounces at backcountry.net [mailto:cdt-l-bounces at backcountry.net]
On Behalf Of dan kayser
Sent: Monday, January 29, 2007 11:08 AM
To: cdt-l at backcountry.net
Subject: [cdt-l] Snow Shoes & ice axe

First time on this list serve so I don't know what to expect.  I have been 
gathering information on thru hiking the CDT in 2009.  I have a few 
backpacking trips under my belt but nothing beyond a week.  I am planning to

hike the CT this fall (late August/September).  My is do I need snow shoes 
and /or an ice axe?  Are they essential to hiking in the high country?  If 
so what is the best way to learn how to use this equipment as I don't have 
any experience with this equipment.  Also, if I need them what features do I

need to look for?  Any information I can get would be greatly appreciated!

Thanks - Dan

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