Ice Axe for July 24th start?

imported
#1

Think I’ll need an ice axe if I’m starting July 24th on a southbound hike from Happy Isles? I’ll be doing the trail in about 17 days.

Thanks,
Bob

Bob

#2

By that time any snow you encounter on the passes will have a trench worn through by earlier hikers. Assuming you are sticking to the trail, the axe will just be extra weight on your back with no benefit.

Phil B

#3

I’m leaving July 22nd from Happy Isles on a planned ten day JMT thru-hike. I’m flexible if a need another day or two. I have a 8.6 ounce Camp mountain axe I was planning to bring depending on the conditions. I also thought about sending a pair of Montrail Stratos boots to my resupply at Muir Ranch for the southern passes. Phil, do you think the boots are needed or will I be able to climb over the passes in my trail runners with shortie gaiters?

Dave

#4

It is too early to say if an ice axe will be needed on July 24. I crossed Forester on July 9, 1998, and had continuous snow for 5 miles south to 5 miles north of Forester. There were no footprints on the southside of Forester on that date. The other passes also had continuous snow on each side. When you can’t see the trail and the switchbacks, you might need the ice axe to go up and down the steep slopes.

Turtle Walking

#5

I’m starting from Happy Isle on the 24th so I won’t get to Forest Pass till probably the 8th of August.

Bob

#6

Judging by the snow sensor figures the melt off is happening much earlier than in 1998. The south of Forrester covered in snow must have been impressive.

Dave - sorry, can’t help with the trail runner question as I always wear boots. You will probably get the info from PCT hiker journals once they post after coming through the JMT section. Most of them wear trail runners and they are sure to comment on conditions over the passes.

Phil B