First check the map and satellite photos for the thickest snow lines and hidden crevasses. Mark any obvious ridges or rock outcrops that can act as safe anchors. Then, scout the spot in daylight, looking for natural markers like ice formations or fallen branches that signal danger. Use a GPS to set waypoints along the safest line, but keep your eyes on the terrain—terrain can change faster than a signal. If the snow is deep, stick to the edges of the canyon where the wind scours away the fluff and exposes the harder ground. Pack a rope in case you need to secure yourself, and keep a radio or satellite phone ready for emergencies. Always have a fallback route in mind, and never push forward if the ice feels slick—better to wait for a clear pass than risk a fall.

Got the rope, the axe, and a shout that’ll make the rocks shake. I’ll lay the path, you blaze ahead—just keep your ears open for any creak or wind shift. Let’s make that canyon our own.

Let’s keep the rope taut, stay sharp on the sound, and move like a shadow on the ice. Here’s the crack—time to strike.