snow?

[Cy Kaicener]

There was a foot of snow at Long Valley today with below freezing temperatures and strong winds. There were seven people headed up to the tram from the Museum this morning. One group of four had full packs with sleeping bags. Imagine toting a full pack from Flat Rock in heavy snow up that steep grade.

[halhiker]

When I hear these things it's kinda scary. I hope they have crampons and ice axes and know how to use them. I have to think there's gotta be some ice along trail up there.

[cynthia23]

OMG Cy, that's seriously scary news. IMHO the chances are high they will need a rescue. Did they have cell phones, radio, someway of contacting for help? What about crampons/ice axe? Did they seem fit? Had any of them ever been up Skyline before? Did they seem to generally know what they were tackling? It's hard to believe they did, as this doesn't seem to me any sensible person (with the exception of a serious alpine mountaineer with expedition experience) would tackle. As you all know it is extraordinarily difficult to make it up Skyline with a full pack, let alone in the snow and ice! If any one knows or hears anything (ie. that they made it or called for help) please post. I am almost thinking that in the morning I will call the ranger station and warn them about this. This is very worrisome news Cy, thank you for posting. If anyone has more info please post ....

[Cy Kaicener]

I never got a chance to talk to them, but they looked like they had all the gear and were well prepared. Doreen tried in vain to talk them out of it.
So far there is nothing on http://rmru.org

[cynthia23]

Wow. What craziness. But at least there is four of them, it's hard to imagine complete disaster with that many people, and surely there will be spouses/relatives/etc who will call for rescue if one of them never shows up. Still, a frightening tale ... let us hope for the best.

[AlanK]

There was a foot of snow at Long Valley today with below freezing temperatures and strong winds. There were seven people headed up to the tram from the Museum this morning. One group of four had full packs with sleeping bags. Imagine toting a full pack from Flat Rock in heavy snow up that steep grade.

My son Eric and I did Skyline today. We caught up with the party of four overnighters on the steep climb approaching Long Valley. They were doing well and having a great time. As were we.

[Cy Kaicener]

Congratulations Eric and Allan. You guys are good mountaineers.