Pack for Snow Camping/Mountain Approach — ULA Catalyst?

Bruce,

Watching this thread with some interest.

From my few dealings with Chris from ULA, he's quick to respond to emails and very helpful. I'm sure you'll find someone on here who's used this pack in that capacity but I'm sure Chris can offer some additional insight to what you find here.

I've been really happy with the Ohm 2.0 but wouldn't want to secure anything more than trekking poles under its cord compression system. I've pondered the idea of using a fastex buckle with the compression strap of the Circuit or Catalyst as a means to loop it through snow shoes and then re-fasten it to the pack.

I just did a weekend in the Catskills, NY useing my ULA CDT pack. My pack weight, including food and water, my crampons, micro spikes and snow shoes weighed in at 23 lbs. Pack was packed FULL but it handled the load perfect. I think the pack you are asking about is larger then the CDT, so depending on what you bring and how you pack, I'd say try it out.

Take a look at the HMG porter as well. I've got one of the original expedition packs (now porter 4400) and its been my go-to pack for pack rafting, winter camping, and family sherpa duty. High capacity for bulky winter insulation. The numerous compression straps and daisy chains make a great platform for strapping on skis, snowshoes, paddles, shovels, etc. Practically waterproof too which can be useful for snow travel.

Ike,

What pack is that in your avatar?

That's the expedition pack

Bruce,
here is a picture showing a Catalyst with all the things on your list strapped to the outside of it.
Will everything on your list be able to starp to the pack? In a word, yes. With no worries.

I didn't even use the front pocket which could hold the shovel blade

I use the catalyst for winter stuff and I think it works great.
I've loaded it with an ice axe, crampons, and snowshoes.
Also carried my trekking poles/snowshoes without issue.
I didn't bring a real snow shovel though…Just a little snow claw, so I can't comment on that part.

Sorry i don't have pics…but you can kind of see it about 10 seconds into this video:

The ULA Catalyst is my "heavy hauler" pack. I've used it overnight climbing trips, winter backpacking/hut trips (on skis) and when guiding as well.

Good, solid, workhorse like pack.
http://www.pmags.com/ula-catalyst-review

I love my Catalyst. Best belt in the business.

I too am interested in the Catalyst as replacing my old Osprey Aether 70. I calculate that my max weight will be in 35-40 range (either desert hiking with lots of water or winter hiking with 4 season tent and quite a bit of gear). Average weight for a run-of-the-hill trip would be 30-35 lbs. I know the specs online say it is, but is this doable in reality?