[pct-l] Re: Early season Streams Techniques and problem creeks

[go4ahike at verizon.net (Brian Bowlsby)]

Also, to add to what Bob said, it helps to probe the snow ahead of you
with a trekking pole or stick to "feel" if the snow is solid or not. If
the pole pokes through the snow, then don't go any farther or else you
will also be going through the snow! Even better, if you can see the
snowbridge from the side before you cross, you can get a visual of how
thick the bridge is at the apex. Any less than a foot thick and I
wouldn't chance it!

Brian


-----Original Message-----
From: pct-l-bounces@mailman.backcountry.net
[mailto:pct-l-bounces@mailman.backcountry.net] On Behalf Of Bob Bankhead
Sent: Thursday, January 08, 2004 11:42 AM
To: Robert Ellinwood; PCT List Forum
Subject: [pct-l] Re: Early season Streams Techniques and problem creeks


Wise man say: "Never burn your bridges."

One NEVER jumps on a snow bridge unless one enjoys collapsing it under
them. This can really upset your partners behind (or in front of) you
who now have to pull you out AND find another way over (and maybe back).
They might just leave you down there to contemplate the wisdom of your
actions. Worse yet, you could be alone when you did it. Cross slowly
and step gently - don't run or do anything to set up harmonic vibrations
in the bridge.

Will it hold you? There's no way to tell but to try it. Rope up first -
either to your partner(s) or to a solid anchor -  unless you know for
sure what's under that bridge.

Wandering Bob


----- Original Message ----- 
From: "Robert Ellinwood" <rellinwood@worldnet.att.net>
To: "'Hiker'" <hiker@godlikebuthumble.com>;
<pct-l@mailman.backcountry.net>
Sent: Thursday, January 08, 2004 11:25 AM
Subject: RE: [pct-l] Re: Early season Streams Techniques and problem
creeks

I've always been leery (read: chicken) about snow bridges, preferring to
wade.   Anyone ever fallen through on one?  Are there specific
techniques for "judging" a snow bridge from those who have crossed a
number of them?  How do you know it will hold you?  I assume one jumps
over the center part??

 Bob (BobnShell)


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