Luciano136 wrote:dynamokiev98 wrote:blueshade wrote:Shasta is not a hard mountain at all, somewhat strenuous (7000' gain) but not dangerous. If you wait until later in the year you can do it in sneakers if you are careful, crampons if you want to be safer. Easily finished as a day-hike if you move quickly.
However, I also would recommend a Colorado 14er first. A lot closer, a little easier (depending on the mountain), and you can do a lot more of them if that is your desire.
I did Shasta in my running shoes late July last year, but only because I did not know anything about proper way to do it. I think it is not only dangerous, but stupid. There are storms that may come VERY quick since we don't see what's over the ridges. Storms with thunder and lightning, or whiteouts. When you want to get down the mountain quick I wouldn't want to get caught even on avalanche gulch (when it is not appropriate for glissading). Last weekend I actually encountered 2!! people that F***** themselves up on AG. One attempted to glissade and went out of control (it was too icy), other was going up, somehow slipped and flew down for 50-100M..1st one ad scrapes on his face 2nd had just bumps and bruises as I understand, but she was wearing crampons and it could of been a lot worse if she caught her leg with one. No matter how easy the begginer route on Shasta is, it is still a big mountain and people do get hurt on this route. Of course people do summit in running shoes, but chances of being hurt if you do that are higher..anyone is free to take their risks, but I wouldn't suggest hiking up in running shoes to a begginer asking for good advise on safety. lol
good luck
+1 !
+2
People have also climbed Hood, and I'd imagine, many other of our mountains whilst wearing very simple garb. Rumor is a woman once climbed Hood in high heels while wearing a dress. And, Hood has supposedly seen a volleyball game, (of sorts, I'm sure), played on its' summit.
But, I think those are the rare days the Gods are smiling on you. Kind of like how people used to drive around with their babies/infants without any car seats or restraints. Sure, you might get away with it sometimes, but, when you don't, you/ or the child, will pay the price.
Is it really worth it to roll the dice?
Having said that, I've climbed St. Helens on a perfect day in July, with nothing more than a fanny pack and hiking boots. (my uncle, however, was planning for anything, and carried a huge pack; needless to say, he was much slower). But, I'd say Shasta and certainly Rainier, are different beasts than St. Helens.
Posted: Mon May 03, 2010 6:36 pmI think Rainier will put most (if not all) CO 14-ers to shame?
