1st timers Cactus to clouds

[Boyski]

I am planning on doing the cactus to clouds hike sometime next week (weather depending) and wanted a little info.

I grew up in Canada doing anything from mild to extremely difficult climbs, hikes and scrambles. I am used to elevation hikes etc. But this is not to say that I don't have a healthy respect for nature and finding out everything I can before venturing out on a hike I've never done. Believe me, I am anything but cocky.

Considering the time of year, what footwear would anyone recommend? I was planning on a nice pair of water proof North Face hiking shoes. (High tops) But I recently have been told that I should also be bringing crampons and an ice axe?? Now to clarify, I am going up with my Brother in law and we are not going to do the final summit past the top gondola. Do we still need this gear? It seems excessive, but then again, I'm not 100% so I felt to ask here. I have been reading many different sites and some make it sound like we would be making a bid for the summit of Everest. The last thing I want to do is lug up a ton of gear that really isn't necessary.

Any information would be greatly appreciated.


Thanks!

[Boyski]

This is the exact response I was hoping to get. I thought the same thing about the axe/crampons being overkill. Sure I'm a Canadian with a lot of back country/climbing experience, but I know well enough not to let arrogance cloud better judgement. Micro's sound like the best plan and I imagine that they most likely won't even be needed.

thanks for the reply! I can't wait to do this ascent!

[HikerLinda]

Please post a trip report after you complete Skyline. 4 of us are avid and strong hikers. We have had 4 training sessions on Skyline, each time with altitude gains and time. We are planning a full climb on March 19th, weather being THE most important factor.

Will be anxious to know if you run into snow?

Hiker Linda in Joshua Tree

[Boyski]

I will definitely post a report after we do the hike. A small system moved through yesterday which might have brought some new snow. I'm really not expecting to be 'post holing' up to my knees, but if that's the case then that's the case. I'm not doing an 8 hour hike because it's supposed to be easy