Crampons still essential in some areas of the mountains

Some of the normal walking and trekking routes in the Sierras are still badly affected by snow. Underneath a soft initial 6 inches of top surface there is at times hard snow/ice. The crossing below the Tajos de la Virgen is risky without crampons. We have noticed many parties expecting summer trekking that have neither crampons nor axes.

The worst affected area is between the ski centre and the Caballo, including the Rio Lanjaron. The crossing between the Cariguela and Caldera also crosses steep snow slopes. Sure, there are worn paths across but they can be slippery. Needless to say, the northern slopes are out of bounds still for trekkers, including the area north of the Col del Ciervo to the Laguna de la Mosca and beyond.

For some weeks we have been reporting accidents – 1 fatal, 3 injuries as a result of falls. Take care!

Related posts:

1. High winds keep Sierra Nevada skiing limited to beginners areas only
2. Another accident in the Sierras in a fall from los Machos on steep snow