Packing safely for a spring hike in the high country

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April 22, 1999

Packing safely for a spring hike in the high country

By KRISTIN HOSTETTER
SPECIAL TO THE POST-INTELLIGENCER

I just returned from a fabulous weekend on Mount Hood with a group of friends. The snow was powdery, the sun was warm, and the scenery was stellar. Half of us wore skis, the other half snowshoes. A friendly rivalry developed between the two camps, and we spent the better part of one day competing in a series of relay races and contests to see which mode of travel was the "best."

Of course, there is no "best" mode of travel when it comes to enjoying the springtime mountains. The important thing is that we all had a blast playing in the snow.

If you plan on spending some time up above the snowline this spring or summer -- and I hope you do -- here are some specific gear items you may not think to pack.

Adjustable trekking poles with wide powder baskets. Adjustable poles offer more versatility than standard ski poles. You can extend them for descents, shrink them for climbs, and mix and match lengths to make traverses across long sidehills easier and more comfortable. The wider snow baskets prevent the poles from sinking too deeply in the powder. Don't forget to pack an extra basket or two in case you lose one.

Sun protection. Reflection off the snow means you'll need to be extra careful about the sun. Carry sunglasses with a retaining strap (so you don't lose them during a wipeout), plenty of sunscreen (15 spf or higher), and lip balm. If the sun's really beating down on you, opt for a white or light-colored shirt rather than black. You'll stay a lot cooler. And don't forget to drink lots of water.

Waterproof gaiters. A must to keep the snow out. Must be knee-high.

Climbing skins (for skiers only). These are ski-size bands of mohair that adhere to the bottom of skis and allow you to easily climb uphill.

If you go into avalanche terrain:

Avalanche beacons. One doesn't do the trick. Every person in your group should wear one and be well practiced in searching for victims. One good exercise: have everyone close their eyes, throw one beacon into the snow, and send out the search party to locate it.

Snow shovels: Everyone in your group should carry a collapsible snow shovel. You'll use them to check the snowpack for avalanche danger, build snow shelters and -- God forbid -- dig out buried victims.

If you don't have any experience in snow or mountain travel, it pays to get some training. Check the bulletin board or ask at your local outdoor shop. Or call Wilderness Sports 425-746-0500, a retailer in Bellevue that hosts several avalanche clinics a year in their store.

If you're interested in snowshoeing, Discover U -- 206-443-0447 -- in Seattle offers adult courses.

Kristin Hostetter is the equipment editor for Backpacker magazine. She resides in Portland, Ore., but spends most of her time in the wilds testing gear. For more information on equipment, check out Backpacker's Web site atwww.bpbasecamp.com.