Rope

[Gideon]

What type of rope do you guys carry for winter hiking. I hit a spot on Westkill yesterday that was all ice and had no hand holds. It was only about 20' more or less but a rope would of added a little comfort. Just curious if there is a perticular lite weight hikers rope.

[SendHelp]

At one time I carried climbing rope, but never had the need to use it in the Cats.

Presently I carry about 30 feet of parachute cord. Its only been used a few times for getting past an icy spot. (Use caution when using it.)

By no means would I use it for true climbing. Nor would I use it in a situation where it would be subject to my entire weight. Its also handy for dragging the pack up or lowering it, and fixing things.

In the long run you might be better off improving your traction gear (good snowshoes, crampons, microspikes), adding the use of poles or looking for a work around the spots that are icy. Having to setup a cord or rope entails more hassle than its worth usually.

Earlier this year I ran into icy conditions on Thomas Cole that were too much for microspikes. While a rope or using the parachute cord would have aided my travels. Crampons would have taken care of the problem. (I had left them in the car.)

[Mike S]

The best kind of rope is to go around the ice. There is always another way, don't get tunnel vision.

[Gideon]

Thanks forfor the comments. I only asked because I read reports of two other hikers using ropes in the cats this weekend. I have climbed in the gunks on multiple pitched climbs so I know a few things about climbing equipment. That is two heavy. I think a light weight rope just for balance might work well. I had spikes on and had my crampons in my pack but I thought a rope would of been nice to hold on to. Certainly avoiding it all together would be the safest option.

[DSettahr]

Rope is one of those things that in untrained hands, can provide a false sense of security that makes a situation far more dangerous than it would be otherwise, whether it's climbing mountains or paddling on water.

One thing to keep in mind, too, is what might happen if other hikers see you using a rope on your hikes- yes, you might have the skills to use it safely, but the people who observe you might not realize that, and may decide that a rope would be a good thing for them to use without any training.

[Zer0-G]

Originally Posted by Gideon

Thanks forfor the comments. I only asked because I read reports of two other hikers using ropes in the cats this weekend. I have climbed in the gunks on multiple pitched climbs so I know a few things about climbing equipment. That is two heavy. I think a light weight rope just for balance might work well. I had spikes on and had my crampons in my pack but I thought a rope would of been nice to hold on to. Certainly avoiding it all together would be the safest option.

Go on.....tell me more about the rope you use and the climbing equipment....

[Zer0-G]

Originally Posted by DSettahr

Rope is one of those things that in untrained hands, can provide a false sense of security that makes a situation far more dangerous than it would be otherwise, whether it's climbing mountains or paddling on water.

One thing to keep in mind, too, is what might happen if other hikers see you using a rope on your hikes- yes, you might have the skills to use it safely, but the people who observe you might not realize that, and may decide that a rope would be a good thing for them to use without any training.

I have seen, first hand of hikers using rope with some pretty funny and potentially dangerous results. The only thing guaranteed about using ropes is, as you said, the false sense of security it provides. Not to mention, an increased potential for injury if used by the inexperienced.

I do, however take issue with your second point, the 'observers'? C'mon man!... We must make an assumption that at least the majority of them are adults and hopefully immune to the 'pied piper' effect. eh? After all, I usually don't see a lot of people following me into the woods wearing Bermuda shorts, crocs and a big can of OFF!

[Jay H]

Originally Posted by Gideon

What type of rope do you guys carry for winter hiking. I hit a spot on Westkill yesterday that was all ice and had no hand holds. It was only about 20' more or less but a rope would of added a little comfort. Just curious if there is a perticular lite weight hikers rope.

It depends on the usage, if I hike with Hoosier and want to end it all, I just bring ordinary Home Depot special with the slipknot pretied at home.

Was this spot on WestKill just below the Buck Ridge lookout per chance?

Jay

[Woolybear]

My regular hiking partner and i carry a section of rope/cordage (not rated for climbing) but not to haul ourselves up or down a slope. We carry it for gear hauling. Sometimes its just easier to get up or down sections of Mt without a pack on your back.

[PA Ridgerunner]

Originally Posted by DSettahr

Rope is one of those things that in untrained hands, can provide a false sense of security that makes a situation far more dangerous than it would be otherwise, whether it's climbing mountains or paddling on water.

One thing to keep in mind, too, is what might happen if other hikers see you using a rope on your hikes- yes, you might have the skills to use it safely, but the people who observe you might not realize that, and may decide that a rope would be a good thing for them to use without any training.

I'm not sure if I understand your point. Are you saying that we shouldn't use a rope, because someone less knowledgeable or skilled might try to do so and get hurt? Or is your point simply that use of a rope can be dangerous?

[Zer0-G]

Originally Posted by PA Ridgerunner

I'm not sure if I understand your point. Are you saying that we shouldn't use a rope, because someone less knowledgeable or skilled might try to do so and get hurt? Or is your point simply that use of a rope can be dangerous?

I know this was not addressed to me, but I have nothing better to do at the moment...

The use of rope, in untrained hands, can be very dangerous.
People experienced in using ropes can make it look deceptively easy.

There is also, IMO, a pre-conception in peoples minds that using ropes makes it easier and safer.

That is not the case. IMO it is quite the opposite.

Now referring to the pied piper effect, adults need to be responsible for themselves. for example, if I use a rope and because of that you want to use a rope too then that's your choice. I hope you know what you're doing. Actions have consequences both good and bad.

[Zer0-G]

Originally Posted by Rik

This is why I make sure no one is looking when I use crampons or an ice ax...

I also won't drive with kids in the car. Don't want to give them any ideas...

Ok, my sides hurt now...please stop.....

[DSettahr]

Originally Posted by Rik

This is why I make sure no one is looking when I use crampons or an ice ax...

Based on the number of folks I've seen improperly using ice axes and crampons, I think it's safe to say that the same is definitely true for these as well.

[hoosier]

Originally Posted by Jay H

It depends on the usage, if I hike with Hoosier and want to end it all, I just bring ordinary Home Depot special with the slipknot pretied at home.

Was this spot on WestKill just below the Buck Ridge lookout per chance?

Jay

Hey what brought that snide remark about

Besides I figured you would rather fall off of a large tree sloping over a raging torrent on the way to South South Twin. And drown youself. Instead of hanging yourself while hiking with me.

[Jay H]

Originally Posted by hoosier

Hey what brought that snide remark about

Besides I figured you would rather fall off of a large tree sloping over a raging torrent on the way to South South Twin. And drown youself. Instead of hanging yourself while hiking with me.

Just seeing if you're still alive and well..

Easter coming, which means it is gummi season soon..

Jay

[hoosier]

Originally Posted by Jay H

Just seeing if you're still alive and well..

Easter coming, which means it is gummi season soon..

Jay

Yep I'm still alive and well. And it's Gummi season all year long. Just different Gummies for different season. Well except for Chicken Feet

Should be up to the Catskills in April for some trailed peak bush whacks.

PS. I do not use a rope in the Catskill's. Figured I would try to stay on the topic. And not have some serious thread drift

[bud]

I did my first round of the 39 without a rope. When I started hiking with others I started carrying 15' of 3/4" line. It's big enough in diameter for people to grab easily and long enough to help in most areas of the Cats. I found others often have trouble scrambling up places on and off trail that I can easily climb.
Yes, there's usually another way around in the Cats. The rope makes it much easier, I don't mind the extra weight in my pack. Most people like it when I break out the rope and drop it down to them. It's also helpful when the trails are icy.
When the day's agenda involves an easy hike I carry about 10' of 3/8" nylon with a carabiner tied on the end for quick and easy fastening to a stationary object. I carry the lighter rope because I don't expect to use it but it can come in handy for hoisting packs or assisting another without bearing their full weight.

[MtnManJohn]

Originally Posted by bud

I did my first round of the 39 without a rope. When I started hiking with others I started carrying 15' of 3/4" line. It's big enough in diameter for people to grab easily and long enough to help in most areas of the Cats. I found others often have trouble scrambling up places on and off trail that I can easily climb.
...

Yep, the rope was fun those times!

Last year I bought 60' of climbing rope (can't recall diameter, but < 3/4"). I have not had to use it (yet). The other thing I've been practicing during spare time is knot tying.