[pct-l] Ice/Snow

[Katica Dias]

I am seeking advice on whether snow/ice skills are realistically  
needed on a PCT thru-hike.  I am comfortable in the outdoors, have  
done other long walks, but as an Australian, I have walked in snow for  
a total of 2hrs in my entire life!  I am drawn to the PCT (over the  
Appalachian) for the longer daily distance and fewer people but I also  
need to be realistic about whether it is honestly feasible to thru- 
hike the PCT without experience in snow and ice.  I was, for example,  
considering delaying my start on the PCT for a few weeks after the  
traditional start time to try and avoid the snow, but am not sure is  
sufficient?  If I am being too idealistic, I would rather know that  
now, so I can go walk the Appalachian successfully, rather than  
attempt and fail the PCT due to snow conditions.  Any and all advice  
happily received.