I’d be interested is pictures of the 2 cleat systems and the footwear used. Also how can ice cleats not be slippery as heck on bare rock?

tom_mn -

First pair that was destroyed:
https://yaktrax.implus.com/products/...walk-ice-shoes

Second pair:


Shoes I wore them with:
https://cimg3.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fod...19952c8a84.jpg

As for why they weren't slippery on rock....I'm as baffled as you are, but we had no issues (granted, we walked carefully as we were afraid they would be).

Thanks, I may do this someday to beat both the heat and the hordes. Arches is just terribly crowded in the summer.

I am familiar with the springs-style Yaktrax, not interested in that. Springs won't grip very well.

I have a slightly more aggressive cleat that works well on ice
I have no idea how they'd work on bare rock. I've only used them in Sequoia and Yellowstone.

I am familiar with the springs-style Yaktrax, not interested in that. Springs won't grip very well.

Nor do they last very long, which is why I no longer have a pair!

I have three or four pairs now, ranging from the inexpensive metal prong type for neighborhood walks to the full on chains. This trip was the first time I'd used the diamond grip pair and I really like them. They'll now be my go to for icy hikes.

Those diamond grip ones look great, mel. I completely agree on spring Yaktrax: don't waste your money. They don't work well, are a pain to get on and off, and don't last long.

I'll throw in another plug for Stabilicers:
https://stabil.implus.com/products/outdoor-recreation/

I have the MAXX2 but other models look good. An advantage is that you can replace the cleats if they get worn down. That said, mine are holding up after a couple years of decent use. They work well on everything except maybe rock hard ice, but even there they help. The MAXX2 are a bit heavy, as a negative.

Thanks again for the excellent trip report!

You're very welcome Nelson, thanks for tuning in.

If I had a nickel for every fingernail I've ripped off putting on Yak Trax...

Stablicers will probably be the next kind I try after my current supply wears out.

Gorgeous pix!
And it looks like a fantastic trip.
I'm glad to see you're still at it! :-)

Definitely still at it Songdoc - leaving for Spain in 10 days (hopefully) and have a three week trip to Portugal planned for early May.

Awesome! Enjoy!

Not to hijack your thread but if you are going to be near Barcelona do not miss hiking at Montserrat. It was a highlight among highlights last year.

Thanks Songdoc. Monserrat is a possibility, but unfortunately my traveling companion (friend) isn't even a walker, much less a hiker. This will be a different kind of trip for me:).

Montserrat would still be a terrific visit, but the hiking was incredible!

Fantastic photos, made even more beautiful with the dusting of snow.

We've visited the area in the fall and know what you mean about the crowds. It must have been perfection to have had the trails and views almost to yourselves.

Always love reading your trip reports and seeing the included photos.

Thank you Clousie!

Fairly often in the winter, we'll hear the highway report proclaiming that Highway 64 is closed between Tres Piedras and Tierra Amarilla. I'm not surprised that you ran into bad weather there.

Sounds like a great trip!
Lee Ann