[pct-l] [John Muir Trail] above record level snow

[ned at mountaineducation.org]

No matter what continues to happen this season as far as snowfall, being prepared for snow, whether it falls on you during your summer hike or you find it over the trail in large fields across a Pass, is priceless to your safety and hike enjoyment. As someone mentioned the other day, snow doesn't "care" about you. "Bad" weather can blow in any month of the year in the Sierra and it doesn't have to be snow and cold to put you at risk. Just plan and prepare for it.

Safe passage is all about knowledge, skills, experience, and simply being able to listen to that "little voice inside" that speaks caution once in a while. Don't assume, based on likelihood, percentages, history, or even experience, that everything is going to be fine. Many a seasoned guide, explorer, or adventurer has been caught off guard in the wrong place at the wrong time and suffered for it. Many a naive backpacker has done just fine. Time and Circumstance.

Part of the fun of mountain travel is being prepared for whatever may come, having the "tools" inside you to know how to deal with adversity in comfort. Isn't it wonderful to be able to be warm and cozy inside your tent cooking up some hot chocolate while a White-out blows outside? All because you were aware in your planning that it might happen. 

However, some states of readiness necessitate carrying more gear, which to many is not acceptable. Each hiker has to come to this decision for themselves based on their priorities and desires in and from the very act of mountain travel. 

Research what the realities of the trail can be and prepare for them. You may never have to deal with certain circumstances that you prepare for, but the knowledge, skill, and training can only make you a better and safer explorer in your own right.



"Just remember, Be Careful out there!"

Ned Tibbits, Director
Mountain Education
1106A Ski Run Blvd
South Lake Tahoe, Ca. 96150
    P: 888-996-8333
    F: 530-541-1456
    C: 530-721-1551
    http://www.mountaineducation.org