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[pct-l] Where does one REALY need an ICE AXE in the Sierras?



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> Where, SPECIFICALLY, are the steep side slopes or up or down slopes where
> one might need an ice axe, or crampons? How many spots are there? Is it
> just
> a few, or too many to list?

My list would include the chute at the top of Forester.  South slopes of
Evans and Pinchot.  Maybe a couple other similar places depending on the pack
and time of day.

> I'm planning to carry crampons, but wondering if I need more (i.e an ice
> axe) or if I really need to even carry crampons.

I'd carry the ice axe and leave the crampons.
>
> I plan to hike with a pair of Leki adjustable poles, but haven't figured
> out
> how this would work in sections where an ice axe might be needed. Also, has
> anyone any experience with an attachment to hiking poles in lieu of an ice
> axe? If so, specific suggestions are welcome.

Where you may need the ice axe, have it in your hand.  Collapse the hiking
poles and put them in your pack.  I've not been convinced by anything I've
heard on the list that hiking pole attachments are a satisfactory substitute
for a real ice axe.  Others may think differently.