[pct-l] Advice to a beginner about crossing Sierras

[giniajim]

I'm going across Red Peak Pass in the Clark Range around the 1st of August.  I'm hoping that the snow has melted by then..   

  ----- Original Message ----- 
  From: Ken Murray 
  To: . 
  Sent: Sunday, June 05, 2011 12:58 PM
  Subject: [pct-l] Advice to a beginner about crossing Sierras


  It is doable.  However, having just got back from Whitney Portal, and having seen my friend Laura's pictures of her solo ski trip into the Evolution Basin a week ago....you are talking about a serious snow trip, in which you are not likely to see much dirt on this trip.  Ned's recon demonstrated the microspikes just didn't help.  It snowed yesterday, throughout the Sierra, meaning that the melt is delayed, again.  So...if you are not prepared physically and mentally for a snow travel and snow camping expedition, undertanding off-trail navigation, dealing with sub=zero temps, dealing with avalanche issues, and being absolutely totally alone.....This is not the time to do it.  For highly experienced people, it would be a great trip.  For "beginners", it has the makings of an epic. 

  Pictures from a week ago:

   https://picasaweb.google.com/101300327436768508374/2011TransSierra#

  Best of luck, whatever you decide to do.

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