gkdmaths

Bonus! I'm taking a few guys I sport climb with up, I havent been in quite a long time. It'll be a terrific day and a nice change in scenery from little si. thanks man!

I searched and read all of last years TRs about the Tatoosh traverses, but I wanted to know if anyone had been up Unicorn this year? Basically, how are the rap anchors on the summit block looking this year?

This is a fun slog, I've done it many, many times. Good hiking boots are a must, you can get by with a good pair of Danners. Gaiters, in my mind, are also a must for keeping comfy while plunge stepping home, but you dont have to. Just remember that gaiters that dont fit are pointless - Outdoor Research or better quality for sure - make sure they fit your boots correctly. I've never once needed crampons on the south route. Some conveniences would be a pair of trekking poles for the ascent and a pair of waterproof pants - even in late season. You'll like the glissade from the false summit to the lunch counter and waterproof pants will keep you dry. Dont forget the axe, either. have fun!

Thanks everyone. Most of the gear you've mentioned I've been looking at, especially the FF mummies and TNF tents. Though I'm starting to gear-up for Denali now, I also am out every weekend presently, and since I teach college I get two months off in the summer that I need gear for too. Luckily I still have Rainier and the NCNP to play in. I'll have a few gear dupes, but most of it I hope to be x-compatible. Thanks again for all your thoughtful recs and kind words. -Greg

I've lurked on CC occasionally for years, but never posted (you'll hear why in 3, 2, 1...). I'm going through a nasty divorce and feeling the need to get back to my roots in the hills. One of my life's goals since I was 18 was Denali, which of course was put on hold for "her", until now that is. I've got my training plans in play, and I'm in the best shape of my life currently. Unfortunately, I lost virtually all of my gear in this process - with no real prospect of getting it back (so just write it off as an option - it's never coming back). I snuck out a few ice axes, my AFS boots, my old Mountainsmith pack, but everything else is gone. I've got options in mind, and as soon as I sell the house, the sky's the limit with respect to cash inflow. There's so many great things out there now - I've been reading the reviews, but I'm a little leery of reviews. So, with the knowledge the fact that I intend to attempt McKinley in 2011 (the service is irrelevant at this point), I need the following list (cost is not an issue within reason): To start tent big ol' pack. mummy bag parkas, shell, puffy, etc. um, stove...? (miss my whisperlite) maybe some really good double boots (better than my Asolos). So, what are you guys using/absolutely love/absolutely hate/wish you had? Cheers! Greg (P.S. - anyone need a climbing partner? )