Current conditions on Mt. Audubon (IPW) or Mt. Alice (RMNP)

[bettyboulder]

Has anyone been up Mt. Audubon from Brainard Lake recently, or up to Mt. Alice from Lion Lakes in RMNP? I'm planning to do both over July 4th weekend and am wondering whether they will require snow gear beyond waterproof boots.

Any beta would be appreciated, even for other peaks in the vicinity of these -- thanks!

[Wildernessjane]

I was up on Mount Alice on Saturday. Lots of snow and running water in the trees within a mile after the turnoff for Lion Lakes. Really difficult to follow the trail which meant lots of bushwacking (and very wet boots). We did not use snowshoes though and there was minimal post-holing. The ridge leading up to the saddle between Alice and Chiefs Head was pretty clear though and it is possible to stay off snow almost the entire time as long as you stick to the spine of the Hourglass Ridge. Chiefs Head is clear. We were also on Isolation if you want beta about the hike via Bluebird Lake.

[bettyboulder]

Thanks, Wildernessjane -- very helpful!

[drex27]

Hike Audobon on Saturday. Still lots of snow below treeline, although I was able to get by with just shoes. Once above treeline, its the standard trail.

[Matt]

Hike Audobon on Saturday. Still lots of snow below treeline, although I was able to get by with just shoes. Once above treeline, its the standard trail.

Shoes or snow shoes? Did you happen to notice how the traverse to Paiute looks?
Thank you.

[drex27]

Regular shoes. Didn't take notice of the traverse to Paiute but from Audubon summit it was dry well past the Crooked Coulior entrance.

[Alpine]

I was up near Elk Tooth on Sunday - posted a few pics here, FWIW:

https://www.facebook.com/#!/groups/2301 ... tif_t=like" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;

let me know if you need any more detailed info.