Brewer Posted December 3, 2008 Share Posted December 3, 2008 Hey. I know there's not much snow out there yet, but I'm planning for my winter activities (which will basically be preparing for spring/summer activities). What I'm looking for an area to brush up on techniques (building anchors, belaying, rapping, climbing, etc). Ideal characteristics: 45-50 degree slope No more than a mile or so from a(n open) road Alpine ice (does this occur in the winter?) Somewhere in the mid to north Cascades If anyone knows some nice places that fit all or most of the criteria, I'd love to hear about it. Thanks! Will also post this in the No.Ca. forum. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Ade Posted December 3, 2008 Share Posted December 3, 2008 Finding a 45-50 degree slope isn't so hard but for alpine ice you'll have to get pretty high and that's unlikely to be near an open road. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Alex Posted December 3, 2008 Share Posted December 3, 2008 If there were alpine ice a mile from an open road, there would be long lines to climb it. Alpine ice (does this occur in the winter?) But alpine ice occurs more like in the spring. That said, 3, and sometimes even 4, of your requirements are met in the lowly Alpental valley. Alpental has lots of very steep slopes, open year round, and is in the mid Cascades. It also sometimes has water ice! It really is a great winter training ground. It has very serious av hazard in places, too. Check the forecast before you venture out. As for alpine ice, Chair Peak or the Tooth or similar such destinations offer that during periods of decent weather. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
genepires Posted December 3, 2008 Share Posted December 3, 2008 go to 2 oclock falls in the david thompson hwy in alberta. Moderate angle. minimal avi hazard. close to road. easy for you to work on skills. Super fun and scenic. Take a couple days off and head up to banff for a long weekend. You will get more done in a 4 day weekend there than an entire season down here. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Brewer Posted December 3, 2008 Author Share Posted December 3, 2008 thanks for the replies! i'll look into alpental. any other suggestions are welcome. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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