In article ,
wrote:
On Jan 26, 11:56 am, "
wrote:
I posted about this to rec.backcountry, but could not get a response.

Never saw it.

I would like to try backcountry skiing for the first time.

OK.

The idea is
to ski from Fallen Leaf Lake, Tahoe, to Lake Aloha, Desolation

This is considerable relief (vertical rise) for a novice.

wilderness. It's going to be my buddy and myself (he has good
experience in bcs, my experiences are in XC racing and backpacking in
summer). Does anyone have a suggestion on the best starting point? My

Buy a snow park permit, park at Echo Summit, and ski to Aloha from
there. The snow will be chopped up near the road but you will have less
vertical except where you want it (Price or the side of Pyramid, no
trees) and minimal tree skiing.

Tahoe Ski touring book suggests starting at "Tahoe Mountain Road" in
South lake Tahoe, but the book is relatively old (judging from 80s
style clothing and 75 mm bindings they use ). Does anyone have
comments (snowmobiles, private land crossings, etc)? The plan is to
ski up to Aloha on day 1, sleep, and ski down the next day.

Also, looks like the backpack will be much heavier compared to summer
b/c of all the winiter clothing. Does the fact that you are skiing
instead of walking (i.e. less pounding on legs) make the pack feel...
well... lighter?

8^)

...and - do I really need metal edges and heavy expedition boots? I am

Depends how good a skier you already are.

If you are a weak skier, you won't feel the difference with metal edges
(very minor).

thinking to rent regular touring skis and light bc boots at Pacos
(done this before for day outings to the backcountry - and did not
have much trouble, did not have to break trail though). I am thinking
that the reduced weight will help easier going. I am hoping that I
have enough experience with snow from my racing days to negotiate
backcountry. Oh, and, probably, no skins, either. Thinking to take
8^)
snowshoes just in case, but this will add a couple more pounds to the
already humongous pack.

Ever camp on snow?

Skip the snow shoes.
Snow boarders have to carry those. You may see some on the side of
Pyramid, or even Ralston.

--

Looking for an H-912 (container).