Log In 
 Peak:  Mt. Yale
 Route:  Southwest Slopes
 Range:  Sawatch
 Posted By:  ltngj
 Date of Info:  3/13/2016
 Date Posted:  3/14/2016
Details

We started at 5am with a steady wind. No snowshoes were required throughout the day, microspikes were definitely helpful above treeline. Above treeline the trail ends due to blowing snow. The best thing you can do is know where the trail goes up to meet the ridge, pick a line and go straight for it. Hunting for the trail was difficult on the way up, crossing some sketchy sections of snice, and powder. Once atop the ridge conditions are superb, the ridge is a fun easy jog to the summit. On the way out, the sun really warmed things up, and the trail became much more visible. Following the summer trail out will put you about a half mile away from the trail back to Denny Creek. If you end up following the trail, prepare to do some route finding back to the north to hook back up with the trail. Some good glissading does exist on the slope, but most sections are hard and fast. On the way out, it was very much spring soft snow, and the trail through treeline needs to be stayed on. Saw multiple people postholing to their hips. Hard to say what conditions will be like in the coming days due to forecasted snow and high winds.


Comments or Questions

   Not registered?