First AT Trip of the Year?

<br>I don't think conditions are currently good........whiteouts, rain, long approaches, thin covering of snow on rock-studded ice, etc...

<br><br>Muir is doable, but for a person just getting into the sport, it would put such a sour taste in their mouth right now that you would have a hard time convincing them to give it another try. It's a long haul carrying skis, and those rock steps up and over Pan are sometimes a killer on the knees, especially on the way back. I agree with what everyone else has said, wait for some new snow, try one of the local ski areas, pre season and wait until there is somewhat of a base so you don't tear up the equipment. Look for fairly decent weather, at least no rain, pack a lunch, take something hot to drink, hike up a ways take a nice little break, get some good turns in and you've set the hook .

I had the same problem last year, and made many mistakes. Fortunately, she is still wioth me....<br><br>While Paradise to Muir is great terrain wise, it may be too long (5k of climbing is never a picnic). The stuff right around Paradise is probably your best bet. Find some mellow trees and do some short laps, then sip hot liquids and chill. Baker is also a great option. There is great terrain right near the parking lot, although the avalanche potential is definitely a lot higher.<br><br>Whatever you do, dont push too hard. Most alpine skiers have no idea how much effort can go into getting up a mountain on their own power. focus on all themechanics you take for granted (how to put skins on, how to take skins off, how to pack a backpack, how to navigate complex terrain, how to balance while skinning...etc.). So, with all that in mind, I wouldnt go until you can ski from the parking lot, which will hopefully be by November.<br><br><br><br><br>

I would suggest something with a destination or nice views. This always seems to work pretty well with my girlfriend. If she knows that we are actually going to see something or have a specific destination it makes the trip a lot nicer for her. <br><br>Aaron

Aaron, I can just hear you now, "Oh yes we'll have a great view from the summit after we climb 5000ft of vertical ice and rotten rock while we constantly dodge car-sized boulders in -80 degree temps with 100mph winds in a whiteout. But the view will be really spectacular . . ."<br><br>