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Preparing for My First Camino Journey: Question about Microspikes in April

jodiyyc

New Member
Time of past OR future Camino
Camino Frances April/ May 2022
Hi, I am Jodi from Alberta Canada.
I am hiking my first Camino ( Frances ) this April.
I plan to start at SJPP on the 7th if things go as planned. I am counting down the weeks!
I feel very fortunate to have stumbled upon this site. It’s so great to hear about everybody’s experiences and learn from them. Thank you everyone. Thank you Ivar. It’s great to be a part of this community. Oh, I do have a question…. Is it a good idea to pack microspikes in April?
I live close to the Rockies and we use them here in the winter…. I’m just not sure if there is much ice or snow in April. ( where’s that crystal ball when you need it?)…
 
Join our full-service guided tour and let us convert you into a Pampered Pilgrim!
Hi, I am Jodi from Alberta Canada.
I am hiking my first Camino ( Frances ) this April.
I plan to start at SJPP on the 7th if things go as planned. I am counting down the weeks!
I feel very fortunate to have stumbled upon this site. It’s so great to hear about everybody’s experiences and learn from them. Thank you everyone. Thank you Ivar. It’s great to be a part of this community. Oh, I do have a question…. Is it a good idea to pack microspikes in April?
I live close to the Rockies and we use them here in the winter…. I’m just not sure if there is much ice or snow in April. ( where’s that crystal ball when you need it?)…
Actually, just checked my itinerary and I’m leaving SJPP on April 6. I’m happy to see there are others leaving around the same time😃
 
Hi! Welcome to the forum!

To answer your question about microspikes in April - No. For example look at this thread asking about February. At a very few places, you might experience some wet snow, so you should be prepared for almost every type of weather, but if there were such an extraordinary cold spell, maybe you should just take the day off!
 
The one from Galicia (the round) and the one from Castilla & Leon. Individually numbered and made by the same people that make the ones you see on your walk.
If the conditions are bad on the first day from SJPP, you would probably want to take the Valcarlos route. Of course, there could be conditions where you would say "if only I had my microspikes", but the likelihood is low enough that it doesn't make sense to carry them. Here are threads tagged with "sjpp to roncevalles" for more accounts of that first stage.

Have you looked at this thread so see who else is starting on April 6? You might want to add your name to that thread.
 
I am leaving in April as well, again. You don't need any spikes. You DO need your pack to be as light as you can, so you do NOT take any "just in case" items.

Day 1 is the only day where you may encounter any snow of any consequence. This would be a kilometer or so at the top of the Napolean route, where the trail is fairly flat. If its more than that, they close the route and you take the alternate. The steep ascent and descent parts are both on a paved road at lower altitude. This ain't Kananaskis country, you are walking on a fully developed trail.

Buen Camino
 
If the conditions are bad on the first day from SJPP, you would probably want to take the Valcarlos route. Of course, there could be conditions where you would say "if only I had my microspikes", but the likelihood is low enough that it doesn't make sense to carry them. Here are threads tagged with "sjpp to roncevalles" for more accounts of that first stage.

Have you looked at this thread so see who else is starting on April 6? You might want to add your name to that thread.
Thanks for the info. I did add myself to the thread. I am trying to keep my pack as light as possible of course so I will leave my spikes at home. I’m just extra cautious after breaking my ankle in the mountains when I was winter camping lol. It made for an amazing helicopter ride along a glacier though! It’s great that there are alternative routes etc. Also, one can always take a day off!
 
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I am leaving in April as well, again. You don't need any spikes. You DO need your pack to be as light as you can, so you do NOT take any "just in case" items.

Day 1 is the only day where you may encounter any snow of any consequence. This would be a kilometer or so at the top of the Napolean route, where the trail is fairly flat. If its more than that, they close the route and you take the alternate. The steep ascent and descent parts are both on a paved road at lower altitude. This ain't Kananaskis country, you are walking on a fully developed trail.

Buen Camino
Thanks for the advice Rick. Yes, I know my body will appreciate a lighter pack! I will also have poles.
You are right! It isn’t K country lol!
I need to remember that!

Burn Camino
 
Thanks! I may have done something wrong! I’m leaving SJPP on April 6. Thanks for all you do!
Jodi
 
When reaching the pass if you go the Napoleon Route, there is a choice of two ways to head down to Roncevalles. One is only slightly longer, but follows a road most of the the way. The other is more steep and follows a path. If it is wet or snowy, you may want to chose the road option, especially if you have a concern about slipping/falling. The pilgrim's office in St. Jean will probably tell you about this option when you get your first stamp...I knew several pilgrims who fell and had injuries on the steeper path down. Using your poles should help.
 
Get a spanish phone number with Airalo. eSim, so no physical SIM card. Easy to use app to add more funds if needed.
Yes, I agree with your recommendation. I would not mind walking a greater distance if it was more safe. Who knows? The weather could be beautiful and we could be walking in t shirts !
( maybe I’m dreaming…😃) Either way,
I’ve experienced summer snow storms so I will be prepared hopefully with a light pack!
Thanks for your suggestions!
 
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Thank you! It is so refreshing to be planning a vacation after these two long years! And it’s great to be a part of this forum. Thank you for your warm welcome 💗
 
Welcome fellow Rocky Mountaineer. I returned from the Camino in October. Feel free to contact me if you want any advice on how this trek differs from the Rockies.
 
Technical backpack for day trips with backpack cover and internal compartment for the hydration bladder. Ideal daypack for excursions where we need a medium capacity backpack. The back with Air Flow System creates large air channels that will keep our back as cool as possible.

€83,-
Thanks Bombay Bill! That would be great!
How is the best way to connect?
 
Join our full-service guided tour and let us convert you into a Pampered Pilgrim!
How is the best way to connect?
The best way is to start a private "Conversation" here on the forum. When you hover over a person's profile, you'll see a box, the bottom of which has a link to "Start conversation". That is better than exchanging email address or personal information on the open forum.
 
The best way is to start a private "Conversation" here on the forum. When you hover over a person's profile, you'll see a box, the bottom of which has a link to "Start conversation". That is better than exchanging email address or personal information on the open forum.
Thank you!
 
The focus is on reducing the risk of failure through being well prepared. 2nd ed.
microspikes
No need, as others have said. I've walked in wet snow in April in the Montes de Oca before San Juan de Ortega, and between Belorado and Fromista. But it was no big deal.
On the Napoleon Route and near Ibañeta on the Valcarlos route, you could possibly run into corn snow, as I did on the latter in March - but it was crumbly, and no spikes needed. Unless you get dramatic weather, that is. Then all bets are off.
Lol!! Not Burn Camino!! Buen Camino!!
Spillchick. 😑
Most of us have done it at least once.
 
No need, as others have said. I've walked in wet snow in April in the Montes de Oca before San Juan de Ortega, and between Belorado and Fromista. But it was no big deal.
On the Napoleon Route and near Ibañeta on the Valcarlos route, you could possibly run into corn snow, as I did on the latter in March - but it was crumbly, and no spikes needed. Unless you get dramatic weather, that is. Then all bets are off.

Spillchick. 😑
Most of us have done it at least once.
Thanks for the info! Just curious, did you use a down sleeping bag in March?
 
Down bag (90/10 duvet) of 700 fills with 180 g (6.34 ounces) of filling. Mummy-shaped structure, ideal when you are looking for lightness with great heating performance.

€149,-
Actually, just checked my itinerary and I’m leaving SJPP on April 6. I’m happy to see there are others leaving around the same time😃
Unrelated
Calgary was home for nearly a decade.
My kids are still there.
Great city. 👍
 
The 2024 Camino guides will be coming out little by little. Here is a collection of the ones that are out so far.
I am leaving in April as well, again. You don't need any spikes. You DO need your pack to be as light as you can, so you do NOT take any "just in case" items.

Day 1 is the only day where you may encounter any snow of any consequence. This would be a kilometer or so at the top of the Napolean route, where the trail is fairly flat. If its more than that, they close the route and you take the alternate. The steep ascent and descent parts are both on a paved road at lower altitude. This ain't Kananaskis country, you are walking on a fully developed trail.

Buen Camino
Well, on my second time out of SJPP in late April 1998 I ended up in the middle of a snow and hail storm on the Route Napoleon. Had not even think of checking the weather report. Luckily it was a short one, but the path down to Roncesvalles was just 'slipping and sliding'. In those condisions it would have been better to follow the road down from Alto de Ibaneta.
 
Hi, I am Jodi from Alberta Canada.
I am hiking my first Camino ( Frances ) this April.
I plan to start at SJPP on the 7th if things go as planned. I am counting down the weeks!
I feel very fortunate to have stumbled upon this site. It’s so great to hear about everybody’s experiences and learn from them. Thank you everyone. Thank you Ivar. It’s great to be a part of this community. Oh, I do have a question…. Is it a good idea to pack microspikes in April?
I live close to the Rockies and we use them here in the winter…. I’m just not sure if there is much ice or snow in April. ( where’s that crystal ball when you need it?)…
Hello Fellow Canuck. Manitoba here. We walked the French way in May from StJPdP and crossing over the Pyrenees there was snow in the ditches, and a week later a Blizzard. My best guess is that you wont need the spikes, and to be honest there wasn't a day went by that I didn't consider what I could get rid of to lessen my pack.
Having said that, it was a fantastic experience, so much so I went back a few years later and walked from Lisbon along the Atlantic Sea Board.
Buen Camino.
 
Yes, I love Calgary. I’m not a city slicker but my kids and grandkids are here so I’ve made it my home. I love that the river is here and the mountains are close by!
Greetings from a Calgary pilgrim to you about to become a Calgary pilgrim. You are going to LOVE it <3
 
The one from Galicia (the round) and the one from Castilla & Leon. Individually numbered and made by the same people that make the ones you see on your walk.
Well, on my second time out of SJPP in late April 1998 I ended up in the middle of a snow and hail storm on the Route Napoleon. Had not even think of checking the weather report. Luckily it was a short one, but the path down to Roncesvalles was just 'slipping and sliding'. In those condisions it would have been better to follow the road down from Alto de Ibaneta.
Thank you! I’ll keep that in mind and I’ll also be keeping an eye on the weather. It’s great to know there are alternatives though.
 
Thanks for the info. I did add myself to the thread. I am trying to keep my pack as light as possible of course so I will leave my spikes at home. I’m just extra cautious after breaking my ankle in the mountains when I was winter camping lol. It made for an amazing helicopter ride along a glacier though! It’s great that there are alternative routes etc. Also, one can always take a day off!
Canuck from BC here…. Also Irish (long story).
Anyway, wishing you a great journey.
I just learned in the last few days that if you need to access your online banking while you are away you will need to work on getting that sorted because your bank will require a 6-digit passcode when you login from an “unrecognized device” (either a computer terminal or your phone on a Spanish SIM card). TD bank has an app you can get to solve the problem: TD Autheticator, and it’s available for Android and Apple phones. If you are with another of the major banks they will likely have a similar app. Do get that sorted before you go… and yes: it’s much much much less hassle to buy a visitor’s phone plan in Spain than to try to use a Bell or Rogers plan for travel (their rates are *terrible*). When I last did that section of the CF I could not get a SIM card until Pamplona… it might be easier now; at that time there was no EU agreement for plans the way there is now, so perhaps now you can get your SIM in SJPDP before you walk out.
If you don’t need these things, and won’t be banking or needing a phone, you can disregard… but if you need to access accounts or if you have a phone app as your guide (like Wise Pilgrim), then you’re going to want to get sorted at this end first.
Buen Camino
Faye
 
Thank you very much Faye! This is very helpful information. I had planned on getting a SIM card in France or Spain but did not consider online banking etc. I am also from BC originally and part Irish! Anyways, the welcoming and warm reception I’ve received from this forum is truly amazing. Thank you for the great suggestions!

Take care,
Jodi
 
Very light, comfortable and compressible poncho. Specially designed for protection against water for any activity.

Our Atmospheric H30 poncho offers lightness and waterproofness. Easily compressible and made with our Waterproof fabric, its heat-sealed interior seams guarantee its waterproofness. Includes carrying bag.

€60,-
No, you don't need spikes. Yes, you need to keep your pack as light as possible - don't bring any "just in case" items.
Spain is a developed country so anything you need, you can get. Also, anything you DON.T need, you can mail back home.
I've walked both routes out of SJPdP. My first Camino, the Napoleon was closed (in May!!) due to snow, so I walked the Valcarlos. Anyone who says it is not as nice or as challenging as the Napoleon is incorrect, IMHO. Parts of the Valcarlos run closer to a main road. It is more challenging than the Napoleon for a first day out, beautiful sheep-filled valleys, services available.
The Pilgrim Office in SJPdP will advise you which way to go - follow their advice!!
 
Another vote for the Valcarlos route here! It has shade, and rivers… and I even saw a mountain goat doing its solitary thing on the other side of the river… The forest walk is gorgeous, and you *do* get some vistas from high up, plus meeting the Napoleon route at the monument to Roland *anyway*.
But Best of all: the town of Valcarlos has an albergue if you should need to rest and it’s not filled to the gills, doesn’t require pre-booking etc etc. Valcarlos/Luzaide is a fully serviced town with a boulangerie and charcuterie, and also a grocery store with a terrace where you can have a coffee and a light meal...
I won’t go back for another several years (because my coming walk is on the Norte and the next will be at least 3 years after that), but I dream of the Valcarlos route all the time and look forward to my return.
 
Thank you! That sounds lovely. It’s
always good to have a back up plan. I can see myself wanting to stay off the beaten path a little bit and I will probably migrate towards smaller towns a lot of the time… I won’t be in a big rush either especially in the first week. I’ve allowed extra days to make up for weather etc.
After the last couple years it’s so nice to be planning a vacation I’m just crossing my fingers that Covid doesn’t mess that up for me.🤞

Thanks again I really appreciate the information.
Take care
 
The focus is on reducing the risk of failure through being well prepared. 2nd ed.
Hi, I am Jodi from Alberta Canada.
I am hiking my first Camino ( Frances ) this April.
I plan to start at SJPP on the 7th if things go as planned. I am counting down the weeks!
I feel very fortunate to have stumbled upon this site. It’s so great to hear about everybody’s experiences and learn from them. Thank you everyone. Thank you Ivar. It’s great to be a part of this community. Oh, I do have a question…. Is it a good idea to pack microspikes in April?
I live close to the Rockies and we use them here in the winter…. I’m just not sure if there is much ice or snow in April. ( where’s that crystal ball when you need it?)…
I’m from Alberta (Red Deer) and did most of the Frances in October. I’m headed back in March to complete a section I skipped. Although there are some steep climbs it isn’t like hiking in the Rockies. I had problems with my feet and ended up switching to running shoes which worked well - so no technical gear needed. Enjoy and Buen Camino!
 

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