RE: [pct-l] more on ultralight

["Eric Lee (Office)" <elee@MICROSOFT.com>]

>
 Just a question for those who are experienced with the High Sierras
during PCT thru-hiking time.  What is the feasibility of using 4 pt
crampons and ski poles in lieu of an ice axe? Would a good compromise be
to mail a drift box with an ice axe in it through the sections that were
mentioned above, and use it the trail conditions north of your drift box
merit it?
>

I'm not experienced with the High Sierras, but when you're on steep icy
slopes, ski poles are no substitute for an ice axe.  Ski poles and crampons
will help you not to fall in the first place, true, but if you do fall, it's
very difficult to self-arrest without a real ice axe (and the knowledge of
how to properly use it).  And if you can't self-arrest, you're going to have
a *really* bad day.  Ski poles are no help in a fall.

Eric
* From the Pacific Crest Trail Email List |  http://www.backcountry.net   *

==============================================================================