I rope up on many glaciers. Especially early season I do even more. No need to fall into unseen holes.....
I don't climb 8000m peaks and have no desire to.
If I am on a broken glacier I always pick solid partners. Otherwise I don't travel on them.
I can also understand the idea of soloing or going unroped too. I have been guilty if you say but not often...
I have self arrested a partner of mine before and suffered the rope burn and bs on slushy warm snow on Rainier once. It could well have been tragic but it was not our turn.
Ropes have their place obviously it depends on experience, terrain, and many other factors. Be wise...
[ 06-07-2002, 09:02 AM: Message edited by: Cpt.Caveman ]