Crampons on Castle
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outdoorpanda80
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Crampons on Castle
Will I need crampons on a winter and/or early spring ski descent of the North Couloir of Castle or could I manage with ski boots?
Re: Crampons on Castle
It depends on the conditions.
When we were there mid-April 2006, the snow in the couloir was mostly too soft for crampons (take an ice axe regardless), but they did come in very handy on the ridge. If conditions are stable (very stable), climbing the couloir as an ascent route is preferable over the ridge routes.
When we were there mid-April 2006, the snow in the couloir was mostly too soft for crampons (take an ice axe regardless), but they did come in very handy on the ridge. If conditions are stable (very stable), climbing the couloir as an ascent route is preferable over the ridge routes.
I'm old, slow and fat. Unfortunately, those are my good qualities.
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dannymiller15
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Re: Crampons on Castle
I've done it in hiking boots with no additional traction aids when the snow is soft, but would seriously recommend taking crampons in case the snow is harder. Also, I would definitely recommend an ice ace for self arrest if you slip.
Last edited by dannymiller15 on Sun Jan 02, 2011 11:26 pm, edited 3 times in total.
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cheeseburglar
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Re: Crampons on Castle
You could take crampons that fit on your ski boots, and use them if warranted.
