Ice Axe Training at the Skiway

1.0 Overview

The Dartmouth Skiway provides a nearly ideal place to practice basic ice axe and snow climbing technique. When the Skiway closes in the spring we are free to use the "Death Wall" above the road on Holt's Ledge for training. This outing provides an opportunity to learn basic snow climbing techniques including self-arrest, team belay, bollard making, and snow climbing.

2.0 Concept

2.1 Description

We will meet at the Skiway Lodge parking lot, hike up Holt's Ledge and establish a base at the top of the Death Wall (in sight of the road). There we will work on
  • Ice axe handling
  • Self arrest
  • Snow climbing
  • Step Cutting
  • Team belay
  • Self belay
  • Snow and ice anchorage

    We will return to the Lodge parking lot in time for pickup.

    2.2 Schedule of Events

    Sun 7Apr02:
    1500 -- Meet at Skiway base lodge
    1515 -- Hike to top of Death Wall on Holt's side. Work on skills. Time, interest, and conditions permitting, we may climb up to Worden's Schuss.
    1630 -- Return to lodge for pickup.

    2.3 Expected Conditions and Difficulty

    We will be hiking up the ski slopes which are fairly steep, but it is short so that shouldn't be too bad. We will be sliding down the slopes, mostly in control, but the snow surface may be rough and hard on clothing. We will certainly get wet.

    2.4 Special Requirements

    This outing is open to all scouts, scouters, and parents.

    There are no skills prerequisites for this outing.

    3.0 Administration and Logistics

    3.1 Announcement Date: 3Apr02

    3.2 Roster Closing Date: 6Apr02

    3.3 Costs

    None

    3.4 Equipment

    3.4.1 Individual Equipment

  • Ice Axe (if you have one)
  • Crampons (if you have them)
  • Harness (if you have one)
  • Helmet (if you have one)
  • Suitable clothing for the weather and the activity. Standard hiking or climbing clothing is fine. You will definitely want a wind shell with a hood. Hiking boots are important.
  • Water, snacks

    Please be willing to share equipment and bring extras if you can for those who don't have it.

    3.4.2 Patrol Equipment

    None

    3.4.3 Troop Equipment

  • Ropes
  • Helmets
  • Ice Screws
  • Webbing
  • Biners
  • First Aid Kit
  • Extra Ice Axes

    3.5 Transportation Plan

    Dropoff Point: Skiway Lodge Parking Lot

    Dropoff Time: 3:00 pm Sunday 7Apr02

    Pickup Point: Same Place

    Pickup Time: 4:30 pm, Same day

    4.0 Leadership

    4.1 Planning Committee

    Luke

    4.2 Adult Leaders

  • SMIC: Yorke Brown
  • Dan Nelson?
  • Eric Kraus?

    Approved YJB 04Apr02

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