Scrambling Notes

Equipment

Boots:  Get yourself a sturdy pair of boots.  Most scrambling routes will take you through loose rock and rubble.  Go with backpacking or approach boots as they are more robust.

Gloves:  You'll know just how sharp the rocks are as soon as you have to grab onto them.  I keep a pair of leather gardening gloves with me.  You may prefer thinner gloves with better fit/feel, but you'll likely end up having to replace these every few trips.  Even on difficult scrambles you should not be in a situation where you have to feel for tiny cracks or ledges.  This stuff is strictly for the climbers.  Look around for an easier route!

Times

The range of times given should cover the lame to the aggressive, although hauling yourself up steep slopes for hours on end is definitely not for the meek.  I avoid giving distances because when you go out you should be preparing for the amount of time that you spend outdoors.  Scrambling up steep slopes can take considerably longer than routine hiking on flat trails.  Keep in mind that getting up to the summit is only half of your journey.  In general coming down will take about one-half to two-thirds the time going up.

Difficulty

The rating system here is based on technical difficulty.

On easy scrambles, it is little more than a real steep hike.  Those with experience may not even have to put a hand down all day long.  There is no exposure.

Intermediate scrambles will require climbing from time to time on ledges, steep slabs, or loose terrain.  There is mild-moderate exposure.

Difficult scrambles is all the above, plus exposure.  If you are uncomfortable with the situation DO NOT attempt these sections.  Better to turn back than to risk injury or even death.

GPS References

The GPS coordinates given here serve as another form of reference.  In 2003 all new/updated descriptions will have a GPS track that you can download to a compatible (Garmin) unit.  With this information you can literally follow my footsteps.  Please note that GPS readings are accurate to about 15 meters, and should not be used as the only source of navigation.  You should be knowledgeable with a compass, and familiar with reading topographical maps.  On hikes with vague trails or in situations where you have to make your own way, a good sense of direction plus route finding skills are essential.

Food

Bring food high in carbohydrates.  Fresh/dry fruit, peanut butter, chocolate, and granola are excellent sources of energy.  Try to take along more than enough - just in case you have to stay out longer than expected.

Water

For a typical of 4-8 hour day, 2 liters of water.  On cooler days you'll likely not need all of it.  If you take 2 water bottles along, you can always leave one along the way so as not to have to lug all that weight to the top.  Water out of a stream is usually okay as long as you're far enough upstream.

Sun Screen

At higher elevations you'll burn to a crisp in no time.  Especially on cooler or overcast days don't forget to put something on.  Use lotion with an SPF of 20 or higher.

Bug Spray

In early season, the flies and mosquitoes are vicious!  Take bug repellent with you.  If you have strong allergies keep some antihistamine handy.

First Aid Kit

Along with the normal implement of gauze, bandages, and antiseptic, include a pad of moleskin if your footwear is anything but a perfect fit.  I also keep a Swiss Army Knife, compass, whistle, and BIC lighter in the same pouch.

Ski Poles

These days, I never leave home without them.  They come in handy when going up shifting scree, and help lessen the pounding on the knees when descending.  Adjustable length poles are more convenient than conventional poles as you can shorten them on the way up and lengthen them on the way down.

Camera

A camera is completely optional, but without one this web site would be entirely text based!