[pct-l] snow shoes

[CHUCK CHELIN]

Good morning, Dan,

Snowshoes aren’t often seen on the PCT during the thru-hiking season.  I’ve
been using snowshoes since the ‘60s, and I have several pairs which I use
here in the Pacific NW.  I’ve not been seriously tempted to carry them for
PCT hiking – the only temptation being during the few, short times I
postholed in the Sierras -- but by then it was too late to have them sent.  In
hindsight I would do nothing different.
http://www.trailjournals.com/entry.cfm?id=264768



Early in the hiking season the showpack is usually sufficiently strong for a
hiker to stay on top and walk acceptably in trail/running shoes:
http://www.trailjournals.com/entry.cfm?id=264464
http://www.trailjournals.com/entry.cfm?id=264576



In Washington new snow is possible, depending upon the date and the year,
but snowshoes are not the best answer for light, fresh, fluffy snow; one
just can’t stay on top.



Enjoy,



Steel-Eye

Hiking the Pct since before it was the PCT – 1965

http://www.trailjournals.com/steel-eye

http://www.trailjournals.com/SteelEye09


On Mon, Oct 25, 2010 at 6:05 AM, dan kayser <yoyodadio at msn.com> wrote:

>
> I am debating whether to purchase a pair of snowshoes (MSR Ascent ~$270)
> for my 2011 PCT through hike (NOBO).  I have never had a pair so if I decide
> to buy them I'd like to do so soon so I can practice wearing them.  For
> those of you that have used snow shoes on their thru hike would you
> recommend them? Would you take them again?  What were the pros vs cons?  For
> those who haven't do you wish you had?  I understand the snow is wetter and
> crustier in the Sierras so I am also wonder if a pair of sturdy leather
> hiking boots would be sufficient?
>
> Thanks,
>
> Dan
>
> _______________________________________________
> Pct-L mailing list
> Pct-L at backcountry.net
> To unsubcribe, or change options visit:
> http://mailman.backcountry.net/mailman/listinfo/pct-l
>
> List Archives:
> http://mailman.backcountry.net/pipermail/pct-l/
>