Nick_B

IMCS ( http://www.ime-usa.com/imcs/index.html ) in N.Conway could point you in the right direction, as well as suggest alternatives if the red tape get to be to big of an issue. I can't comment on summer climbs, but winter accents require alot of paper work, resumes of each climber, who the group leader will be, gear checks by rangers before the start of a climb, and parties must set out by 6am for any technical route.

I feel your pain, I am on the east coast for the next month and there is nothing here! Most ice routes are still forming, and there is little snow to slide on even in the Whites. There is not even enough snow to warrent avi forecasts on Mt Washington.

I was thinking about skinning while roped, not descending. Knots are a good idea.

I never gave much thought to catching a fall while roped up on skis. I don't ski with tools or an ax out, whippets might not be a bad idea. Any thoughts?

Maybe it is a .9, I was going from memory. Whatever it goes at, it's a lot of fun!

I like the red tricam as well as the pink. Yellow Aliens are a must!

I grew up in NJ and learned how to climb in the Gunks. Spend a day doing the classic 5.6's you will not be dissappointed. High E should be on top of your list. Other fun routes not mentioned are The Dangler 5.7, Disneyland 5.6, V3 5.7, and my first Gunks climb Northern Pillar 5.2. It would be wise to get an early start this time of year and take a long lunch and a late dinner to avoid the sun. Don't pass up the bouldering, even if that's not your thing. Boulder of the God is great V0 highball that a perfect warm up. Ejector Roof is my favorite V2 anywhere.

I would be up for a pint tomorrow night, what time?

Is this a dog friendly event? If so count me in, if anyone in Seattle needs a ride let me know!

Most of the break in's are done by junkies needing money for a fix. They are looking for things that are easy to steal and can sell. If your gear is out of sight it should be safe. I would cover your gear with a blanket and park in well traveled areas. I still have NJ plates on my car and have not had a problem.

Ouch! Thanks for the heads up, I think may leave him home.

Anyone interested in heading up to diamond head tomorrow (2/11)? I doubt I will make the summit, I am more interested in some turns in the trees. I would like to get out early and will be bringing my well behaved border collie.

My dog wasn't impressed with my driving on 99 right below squamish and decied to get sick in my back seat. I thought I cleaned it all up but after I openned my door this morning I found out that it wasn't the case. My car has been sitting, closed up in the sun for the past week while I was away visting my family back east.

I picked up a Never Summer split last year and have done a much touring as I possible could. I prefer PMB's over snowboard boots and recommend that set up with strap bindings. The PMB's are great for the skin up and work well with crampons or kicking steps. Kicking steps in firm snow just does not work with soft boots. On the descent hard boots take alittle getting used to. They are great at highspeed and with jump turns but are harder to ride at slow speeds. I have never been a skier so my 1st tour was interesting to say the least. I am quite comfortable going down hills now or in rolling terrain but it took a few trips and more falls then I like to admit. Check out www.splitboard.com for some more info.

I will be out in two weeks, I can't hardly wait! I have been climbing ice for the past 2 years and lead to 3+, I am quite comfortable on steep snow. The splitboard is my perfered mode of backcounty travel, and I am always up for new tours. Thanks all!