An ice axe, and the skill to safely execute a self arrest are strongly advised. Sections of trail traverse steep, sometimes icy snowfields. If a trail has not been cleared, it may not mean that it is impassable but only that no maintenance has been done and the actual condition may be unknown. Other maintenance activities such as brushing, erosion control and special project work may take place at any time of year and should not greatly hinder travel. Initial maintenance work done by park crews to clear downed trees or any other obstacles that may hinder travel. Throughout the sub-district trail segment lists, the following terms are used: Minimal maintenance is performed through the winter months. Trail and campgrounds go into winter status. Ptarmigan Tunnel doors usually close by late September. Most seasonal suspension and plank bridges are all removed by late September. Bears are most active at this time of year, foraging for up to 20 hours a day. Snow storms may deposit lingering snow, requiring map and compass skills for route finding. Some Septembers are as nice as August, but there is a now a greater chance of significant snow fall. Backcountry Campgrounds are open but may close at any time due to bear activity or forest fire for days or weeks. Generally, snow and water hazards are gone although water hazards may suddenly re-appear after thunderstorms. The majority of the backcountry campgrounds are open by mid-July although the routes connecting the campgrounds may still be impassible.Īugust 1 – Aug 31 Accessible High Country Snow drift blasting and treading is usually completed by Trail Crew by the end of July. Generally, Ptarmigan Tunnel doors open in mid-July. Seasonal suspension and plank bridges are all installed by mid-July. Melting snow presents dynamic hazards at higher elevations, ice axe often recommended. Trails dry out and firm up at lower elevations. Backcountry Campgrounds earliest scheduled openings begin June 15th, but the Belly River region in the northeast and the North Fork region in the northwest are often accessible in May. Snow conditions can change daily: icy in the morning, soft in the afternoon. Expect snow cover at higher elevations and be prepared with map and compass skills for route finding, and ice axe and crampons for crossing steep slopes. Seasonal suspension and plank bridges start to be installed in late May. Water crossings are deep, swift, and cold. Trails are often muddy and covered in puddles or flowing water at lower elevations. ![]() Be aware that mountain weather is unpredictable always be prepared for a variety of conditions. You can either retrace your steps, or descend via the Mount Whitney Trail.The following generalizations are provided for your convenience to better understand what you may encounter when backpacking or day hiking in Glacier. Reaching the top of this route is only the halfway mark, and you'll have to get back down. You'll top out on the summit plateau, and you have made it! Enjoy the view, you earned it! ![]() Choose your route wisely based on your experience and conditions, as both methods will lead to the summit. This route eventually meets with the Mount Whitney Trail. Once you top out at the shoulder, you'll either head up a class three section for the final 400 ft, or continue along the class 2 traverse that wraps around the back side (exposed & dangerous when snow-covered). In summer, stay on the left of this chute as long as you can to avoid unpleasant scree & falling rock, then ascend the upper portion of the chute. The further you make it the first day the smaller your task on summit day.įrom Iceberg Lake, you'll see the obvious chute, the preferred ascent route on snow. Camp at either Upper Boy Scout, or Iceberg Lake. I recommend helmets for falling rock, as well as time spent studying a guide book as to where you first climb on to the ledges. The first technical challenge is the Ebersbacher Ledges. Whitney Trail, then cuts off to the north at the North Fork of Lone Pine Creek. The lakes are beautiful, and the views are stunning, and you can feel proud you have completed a route that John Muir himself pioneered. Because it is far more technical than other routes, there are far fewer people on the trail. Though it is challenging, it is very rewarding. It is usually done in three days of moving, round trip. It requires preparation and good mountain training to be done safely. At about 5 miles, over 6000ft of elevation gain, and some class three scrambling, this route is tough.
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |