 |
 |
|||||
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
MARCH 5 - 12, 2005
$999
Rick French, Leader
|
|
|||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| Mt.
Katahdin rises from the spruce forests of Maine and dominates the
landscape for over 100 miles. Its beauty is hard to describe to those
who have not been there and hard to forget by those who have reached
its summit. Much of Mt. Katahdin is above timberline and very exposed.
Climbing it is a serious undertaking, requiring good physical and
mental preparation, however the peak does not require extensive
technical climbing experience. Thus, Mt. Katahdin offers a challenging,
but accessible, mountaineering experience. Our expedition includes the
added challenge of climbing in the winter. Mt. Katahdin can only be climbed by organized groups. Join us for a rare opportunity to master this peak in the fourth season. For remoteness and scenery it is the ultimate in the winter in the East. Mt. Katahdin offers climbers a serious winter expedition that is relatively nearby. You will start your ascent by a long ski, pulling your gear on a sled. The first night will be spent in a lean-to. The second day of the approach will have you heading uphill to a heated bunkhouse in the cirque at the base of Mt. Katahdin. From here we will have 3 days to get weather that is good enough to gain the summit. The return to civilization will take a one day ski. While en route by van, we will be spending the nights in hotels. The actual climb, once you are at the mountain is non-technical, but steep. You will need to practice with crampons and ice ax, but the basics are easily acquired. You will be ascending steep terrain of large and small boulders. In the winter these are usually ice-covered. Crampons allow for excellent grip. The ice ax is used in case of a fall. Most equipment can be provided, but each individual will need to provide his or her own plastic or leather winter boots and small plastic sled. This climb is for you if want a real winter mountain challenge! IMPORTANT: You will need to sign up by October 1. It is essential to get permits early and there is a lengthy application process. If we do not get you on the list when it is submitted to the park authorities, we cannot add you later. Make this a winter to remember! Price of $999 ($300 nonrefundable) includes: Leader, instruction, permits, transportation, food, lodging (double occupancy), and a chance to get to the top of Katahdin! $300 nonrefundable deposit needed to register. Balance due 60 days prior to trip. For more information and to sign up, contact the leader, Rick French, PO Box 82, South Lima, NY 14558, telephone 585-346-5597, E-mail info@PackPaddleSki.com. If we determine that you need more skills, we can provide them at our upcoming winter clinics. |