Early June route on Elbert

[glad2Bme]

I'm going to be in the Leadville area in early June and thinking about finally climbing Elbert. Most of the recent condition reports seem to favor the East Ridge route over the Northeast Ridge route. Is this an accessibility issue, a ski descent thing, or other? Thanks for any insight!
~frank

[HikerGuy]

If you have 4WD, the East Ridge is shorter and has less elevation gain. If you have a 2WD, then the Northeast Ridge is probably the better choice.

[peter303]

Any beta on the south approach from Twin Lakes? That would seem to have the least snow, but I never tred it early season.

[Cool Hand Luke]

There was considerable snow at the standard summer TH last week, a high clearance vehicle with good tires can make it to the summer TH right now.

I went up Lake County 124 out of Twin Lakes and snow started right where the CDT veers north off the road, probably around 10K. The aspect was SE facing once it started to hold snow. I imagine the Blackcloud Trail (SE Ridge) will still have snow on it once you enter thick tree cover.

[Scott P]

Most of the recent condition reports seem to favor the East Ridge route over the Northeast Ridge route.

Before the road to the NW Ridge opens, most people use the East Ridge (from Twin Lakes), but now that both roads are open, either should be fine.

As mentioned, if you have a 4wd, the East Ridge is the shortest and easiest route. If not, the NW Ridge is shortest (and a little steeper, but still easy as far as 14ers go).

[Tejonmax]

Does anyone have a condition report on the East Ridge route up Elbert?

[Tigerbear]

Was on the standard east ridge yesterday.Road is fine for any car.... Cold, windy. new snow......Route is clear of snow or very easily avoidable.