[pct-l] Ice/Snow

[Diane Soini of Santa Barbara Hikes]

On Oct 28, 2010, at 1:28 PM, pct-l-request at backcountry.net wrote:
> 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.

I'm born and raised in Santa Barbara. I didn't see snow fall until I  
was 21 years old. I had precious little experience (could be measured  
in hours) walking on snow. I struggled in the snow on the PCT but I  
managed. I don't think I could have done a high snow year. I broke  
down in tears over my low snow year, even gave up and went home (but  
I went back a few days later.)

I started May 1, which is after kickoff, but there still was snow in  
the Sierras.

You might consider taking Ned's snow course. I think he has one close  
to the time of kickoff. At least you might learn to walk on snow.  
Once a friend told me how to do it, I got better. Before that I fell  
down frequently and pulled my groin muscles constantly.