G'day,
I'm organising a snow trip as a part of a uni project, and I'm looking mainly for some suggestions on where to go, but also for any relevant advice people want to share.
Background
My only relevant snow experience was on Mount Feathertop last year, 23rd - 24th September. It was late in the season, but there was still plenty of snow. Up and back via Bungalow Spur, camping in the snow at Fed Hut. The first night the surface was slushy so I just kicked my steps. Second day the surface was hard, I used MicroSpikes to start but took them off as the snow thawed. I carried snowshoes but didn't get the chance to use them.
My cohort and I are heading up to Mount Stirling from this Thursday the 10th August to Sunday the 13th August on a snow trip. I have elected to snowshoe. I'll carry my Microspikes so that I can give them a proper run too. We'll be travelling in the snow, as well as camping and cooking.
What I'm looking for
For the project, I need to make up six days of practical, but a couple of them ideally will be leading/helping out with a school or commercial group (if anyone knows of any opportunities, get in touch). That means that four days is ideal for this private trip. I want a challenge, but I understand that with my level of experience, some things may be too dangerous without the proper training/equipment. I will have snowshoes, MicroSpikes and ski poles for travel, anything extra I would need to buy/borrow. I had my sights set on Bogong, but I am worried that it won't be possible without crampons and an ice axe (disagree?).
Dad will probably come with me, but his snow experience is very similar to my own. I have friends with more snow experience who could potentially join me, but that is not certain.
Things to consider
- huts/emergency shelters
- ski poles/navigation
- access to trailhead
- timing (I assume I'd want to go pretty soon, no later than mid-September, to ensure there is still plenty of snow?)
Thanks,
Sam.