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Backpacker Magazine – March 2010
How to Cross a Spring Snowfield
Cross the steeps safely and avoid avalanches with these guide-approved tips.
Illustration by Supercorn
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Tags:
- Skills |
- Survival |
- Winter camping |
Glissade
If you’re descending a rock-free slope with a safe runout, sliding down the snow is much faster (and more fun) than walking. Councell’s preferred method: Sit down and slide on your feet and butt. Place one hand on your axe’s head (pinkie toward the pick) and the other on the shaft at your hip. Press the spike into the snow at your side to steer and slow down. (Note: Never glissade in crampons; the points can catch in the snow and make you lose control.)
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READERS COMMENTS
Most important of all - if you think that you need this info, be sure to get out and PRACTICE in a save spot before it is a matter of your safety! Many local climbing clubs have basic ice and snow safety training. "Think ahead to keep your head."
Beware spring melt stream tunneling under snow pack. Can fall thru "snow bridge". If shallow your wet, if deep you've got trouble.
It would be sporting to mention the hazard of loosing control of the ice ax and have the pick flailing as wildly as tho one out of control. Not that I would know. TK
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