Thanks for all the honest advice.
I will discuss with my friends...If this is the case, I will definitely get a quick training course arranged with the folks and get ice axes. We may also look into changing our permits or just hiking elsewhere. I definitely agree with safety first. I was mis-informed when I picked my dates and didn't realize that there was going to be such a snow issue!
Another option we were considering is the possibility of hiring a guide to help us with the winter mountaneering. Does anyone know how to go about doing this??
Much appreciated,
Jeremy
