Crampon Classes

[lowclouds]

What KathyW and Hikin-Jim said....

I have an older pair of Grivel G10 Wide crampons for my tele boots. In lieu of an iceaxe, which is required for really icy, steep stuff, you might consider one of these:
http://www.bdel.com/gear/fl_whippet.php

or a pair of these:
http://www.backcountry.com/store/GRV004 ... -Grip.html

I have a light Grivel ice axe as well as some poles fitted with the Condors and I, obviously, use the poles much more often than the ice axe. For most routes and conditions on San G or Baldy, the poles are plenty.

Instruction and practice are required for any of this stuff though. the time to learn how to self-arrest is not the moment you realize you're sliding head first down a 35* slope.

Craig

[beastie]

…simply meant that it’s not difficult to put on a pair of crampons. Suggestion: if conquering severe terrain then do take a class and learn mountaineering skills. Safety should always come first and bail as Jim mentioned if the conditions are too harsh. Sensibility is a virtual.

[tinaballina]

All good information and appreciated. Where might i find a "dry" or non ice'd hike that would be equivalent to baldy, meaning steep? I want a hike i can feel.

[tinaballina]

and is anyone going hiking this weekend in the riverside area?

[AlanK]

All good information and appreciated. Where might i find a "dry" or non ice'd hike that would be equivalent to baldy, meaning steep? I want a hike i can feel.

My best suggestion for a dry Baldy-like (in steepness) hike is to head up Skyline to wherever the snow starts, then turn around and head down. That has to be one great workout!

[tinaballina]

thanx AlanK, so you want to meet me there Sat. or Sun.?
LOL

[AlanK]

I am committed to go play in the snow with some friends on San G this Saturday. But if you want company on Skyline, I'll bet you can get one of the locals to join you. Especially if you are sane and plan to turn back before SAR needs to be called in. The unnecessary Skyline rescues have people here quite justifiably worked up.

[beastie]

Skyline is a quad-burner; you should feel the workout. The Marion Trail is also a strenuous workout! The elevation gain the initial 3-miles is a little over 2000ft. I’m not sure about the current conditions but perhaps a local will chime in.

San Jacinto via Marion Mountain Trail info: http://www.localhikes.com/Hikes/SanJaci ... n_4472.asp

Please keep me in mind for future adventures and especially if you head toward Baldy. Have a wonderful time!

[tinaballina]

Skyline is a quad-burner; you should feel the workout. The Marion Trail is also a strenuous workout! The elevation gain the initial 3-miles is a little over 2000ft. I’m not sure about the current conditions but perhaps a local will chime in.

San Jacinto via Marion Mountain Trail info: http://www.localhikes.com/Hikes/SanJaci ... n_4472.asp

Please keep me in mind for future adventures and especially if you head toward Baldy. Have a wonderful time!

I will let you know when i do Baldy for sure. You live in North Hollywood? Baldy would be the middle point. I am thinking Baldy in March depending on the weather.

[beastie]

Alright! Baldy in March if the weather permits... looking forward.