eggs wrote:I presume wayno is saying that due to its steepness - much better to climb the east side rather than descend it?
Or are you suggesting issues with the western approach?
Correct, you can still descend it in the dry,, cilmbing is technically easier, in places you have to downclimb steeper sections, again, avoid at all costs in the wet,
it's pretty safe in the dry, nothing vertical, just depends on your head for heights.
on the western approach to the saddle theres a couple of sections climbing the scree slope where there are false trails that go on to dangerously steep crumbly sections, so if it looks dangerous, back track a bit and look around for the correct track, it's not snow poled the whole way.
DOC discourage it but some people camp around the saddle, it's totally exposed to the elements but can make for a stunning campsite with great sunsets and sunrises.
http://www.metservice.com has detailed mountain forecasts and rain forecasts, the fiordland ones are longer term than aspiring. check them regularly the forecast in NZ can change rapidly, it can snow any time of the year., that part of the country doesnt really have a dry season,
having said all that, photographs don't do justice to the area.
also
http://www.mountain-forecast.com has forecsts for specific areas incl nz.
the weather at the bottom of the south island usually isnt that stable till mid jan. you just have to take pot luck. have a plan b if it rains, a lot of the rees dart track is impassible in heavy rain, so at least expect to be held up between huts for part of the trip. don't expect to get a bunk in summer, the track is extremely busy, it acts as an overflow for people who can't get onto the more popular great walks that require prebooking.
the waterfall face on the way to rabbit pass is even steeper....
from the land of the long white clouds...