Widget,

It is very common for persons with hypothermia to have trouble walking. In the early stages (after shivering stops) for the brain to become confused and lead to stumbling, etc. On very rough terrain like this is described (I have never been on Ranier) this can be very dangerous and may have led his companions to say he could not walk. In later stages there is not enough warmth to keep the muscles working and they stiffen to the point that walking is essentially impossible.


Originally Posted By: Glock-A-Roo

The earlier posters with experience in that realm are correct: being skilled and going light will, in the long run, be safer in the mountains than going heavier and slower. When I say "being skilled" I mean exercising good judgment based on experience, not just being able to physically do the work.


Nothing here should be construed to refer to the loss on Ranier, we don't know enough to discuss that yet imho.

Going fast and light is not necessarily "safer" than going heavier and slower, it just has different risks. Both of them have significant dangers. I know that many if not most climbers prefer the risks of light and fast, but not all will agree they are correct. I also know many who take the "light" part to extremes. I do not think anyone should go so light that they do not have the equipment and food to stay overnight, although I have seen many who claimed it was "safer". I also know many who go as light as they can while being able to spend the night. I also know a few who do not fall in the fast and light group. I have been on rescue missions for all three groups -- just different risks.

Respectfully,

Jerry