I learned a good technique for traversing slide alder. I stand on the limbs\branches and avoid the ground. I use my arms and just yank my way through. It's almost like hovering limb to limb. Total Tarzan jungle effect works great for me. This is where those zip on zip off super high tech lightweight pants excel in the backcountry once again for me. I also like any type of really breathable shirt for the sweat that inevitably comes when whacking too
I heard that some people use gloves but I am stubborn and will never use them, it's cheating! I say thrash up your hands and keep them honed and tough for those granite cracks. Grab that friendly Devil's Club and make one with it.
Another steep grass\dirt technique is to kick steps as one would in snow if you dont have crampons. Sink your fingertips in good too. Crampons can be useful as well as a single hiking pole or stick if you are not in the dense bush.
You dont want a lot of shit hangin from your pack either or it seems to catch on every single branch you pass Hats are a no go for me because they just fall off too.
In the jungle of the North Cascades I find it useful to also have a bladder drinking system when you are hopping across slide alder as well. You dont have to dig in and out of your packs for a drink while balancing helplessly on slide alder
Doing rappels:I never rappel into waterfalls or steep creekbeds unless I know I can get out.
Tennies are the way to go. Much more dexterity when thrashing around. Boots dont allow the ankle flex needed to move quickly for me. No glasses they will fall off or hang on something inevitably.
So all you dedicated bushwhackers tell me your tips!