Steep snow gullies
14 Aug 2012 07:33 #54954
by LeonBasson
Replied by LeonBasson on topic Steep snow gullies
We are leaving on 18 Aug for a 5 day hike to Mafadi, via Leslies Pass. 
Any suggestions ?
We are fully equipped and experienced.
Any suggestions ?
We are fully equipped and experienced.
Please Log in or Create an account to join the conversation.
14 Aug 2012 07:59 #54955
by intrepid
Take nothing but litter, leave nothing but a cleaner Drakensberg.
Replied by intrepid on topic Steep snow gullies
Unfortunately your gear needs are the wrong way round Frosty 
. You start off with walking axe and crampons, since you can do a fairly steep gradient with just these, before it becomes necessary to rope up and place protection. If you are a member of the Joburg Section of the Mountain Club, they have some ice gear that you could use.
According to Raubenheimer's ice reports the snow gullies of the Central and Southern Berg were not so great. But the recent snowfall changed that and I know some ice climbers ascended the Eastern Gully on Giants Castle recently in what seemed to be good alpine conditions. I dont think you can do it without crampons and axe though. I've heard that the gullies coming off the Devils Knuckles at Bushman's Neck make for very fun snow gullies if the conditions are right. These would be easier than Eastern Gully and Champagne Castle South Gully.
Enjoy.
. You start off with walking axe and crampons, since you can do a fairly steep gradient with just these, before it becomes necessary to rope up and place protection. If you are a member of the Joburg Section of the Mountain Club, they have some ice gear that you could use.According to Raubenheimer's ice reports the snow gullies of the Central and Southern Berg were not so great. But the recent snowfall changed that and I know some ice climbers ascended the Eastern Gully on Giants Castle recently in what seemed to be good alpine conditions. I dont think you can do it without crampons and axe though. I've heard that the gullies coming off the Devils Knuckles at Bushman's Neck make for very fun snow gullies if the conditions are right. These would be easier than Eastern Gully and Champagne Castle South Gully.
Enjoy.
Take nothing but litter, leave nothing but a cleaner Drakensberg.
Please Log in or Create an account to join the conversation.
