And also at least some knowledge of safe travel on snow, with some knowledge/practice in self-arrest and assessing avalanche dangers as a minimum. Perhaps not so essential for those venturing out only in summer, but even then, having some idea of whether a lingering snowbank is safe to cross is a good idea.

Oldranger, you said it very well:
Quote:
Part of what you should learn is what terrain to avoid if you are not equipped properly.


Edited by OregonMouse (11/16/11 06:37 PM)
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May your trails be crooked, winding, lonesome, dangerous, leading to the most amazing view--E. Abbey