Basic First Timer Questions

[JohnnyTwoTimes]

I was planning on hitting TR on April 20 - I understand this is the same weekend as Inferno.

(1) Is the place annoyingly nuts that weekend, and is it even worth it?
(2) Scale of 1-10, how is the climb. (10 being extremely difficult)
(3) Do I need any crazy Everest-gear to get up this thing.

Thanks for any responses.
-J2T

[skicdave]

April 20th is my next trip their myself.

(1) Could be very busy.. depends on the weather to some extent. Hike up early before the crowds (last year the day of the Inferno was very busy on the trail with a major bottleneck above HoJos around 11am). I'd target arriving at Pinkham Notch before 8am to avoid the swarm... and to find parking). The Inferno takes up center right ravine from above the headwall to base of the ravine (see http://timefortuckerman.com/photos2001-04-21.html?50] for more on this.

(2) Assuming you mean the climb up the headwall... generally the higher you go, the steeper it gets. Its a tad unnerving ascending the ravine walls in ski boots more than anything especially with exposed rocks and such in close proximity. A large majority of people just climb as high as they feel comfortable with, especially considering the difficulty in putting your skis on while on a steep slope (45%+). If you climb up and over the top of the headwall its much easier to deal with putting on your skis.

Enjoy!

Dave

[skicdave]

(3) No everest gear is required. Good hiking boots for the hike up to the ravine (crampons are a bit of a bonus). Helmet for sure if your skiing in May (falling is dangerous with exposed rocks at base of ravine). A can of beer is recommended to celebrate at the end of the day on lunch rocks.

Dave

[JohnnyTwoTimes]

Thanks for the advice skicdave