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Need backpacking advice

Original Post
Harrison M. · · Ashford, CT · Joined Mar 2013 · Points: 45

Hey so me and a buddy are going from Colorado to Alaska by foot and was wondering if we left Colorado by the first of may would we need snowshoes?

Pete Spri · · Unknown Hometown · Joined Jun 2009 · Points: 347

From my own experience trying to hike the PCT as a through hike starting at the Washington Canadian border over Memorial day weekend, yes, you will need snowshoes.

That was the cascades, so a bit of a difference. Probably depends on snowpack and how much the rockies have had. I cant imagine with the altitude that the rockies are at that you WOULDN'T need snowshoes in early May.

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Sounds like an awesome trip! Going to be hella heavy carrying climbing gear in addition to 7+ days worth of food, but I envy you. Thru-hiking the PCT is one of the best memories of my life.
Jon H · · PC, UT · Joined Nov 2009 · Points: 118

Yes, most likely.

How long do you figure it will take you to cover the 3000 miles?

DaveC · · Louisville, CO · Joined Feb 2006 · Points: 65

Umm, if you are planning to take a mountain route, you need to be prepared for snowcovered terrain & winter weather in May in CO.

Check out NOAA snow cover mapping back to 2002 (pick scale, date, etc.)

Guideline #1: Don't be a jerk.

Colorado
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