Sangres Trip Late June

[emiller]

Have a trip planned for the last week of Juneto attempt some of the Sand Creek lake 13ers (Tijeras and Music) and later Crestone Needle. With the low snow year and the Snotel reports showing 15-20% of median I am thinking maybe micro spikes but brining an ice ax seems like it won't be needed? And if anyone has some pointers to find the best sites at lower sand creek lake they would be appreciated.
Thanks!

[montanahiker]

Joining this thread to also ask for a recent conditions report for the area. I got rained out last year when I tried for Music and may try again in the next few weeks if it's looking dry.

[Mtnman200]

There are plenty of campsites at Lower Sand Creek Lake. You should have no trouble finding one.

Even if this was a low snow year, you can expect snow on the ramp to access Tijeras. Plan your gear accordingly.

[nyker]

In my mind, I've always budgeted Memorial Day week as a potential week to do a good snow climb, and did Little Bear and Crestone Peak that way as well as a bunch of other peaks during the same time period over the years. On more than one occasion I was snowed out by a late season snowstorm that week while either sitting in a tent at Lake Como or South Colony Lakes or in town the night before watching the weather.

I'd plan on there being snow, probably not on the whole route but at least the upper portions where you will probably need and want an axe and better traction than microspikes, meaning crampons. I get the "fast and light" mindset, but if you're really concerned about carrying the gear then I would just push to climb off till summer when you won't need it, otherwise carry it it and plan to probably use it at least for a portion of the upper routes you do. It's really not much weight for the peace of mind they'll offer.

[emiller]

I have no idea why I posted about late May, when I meant June. I guess I just wished my trip was almost here not over a month away.

[nyker]

Ha. I can imagine. Late June then changes the story to much more doable with regard to snow. Certainly still could have some snow lingering around but the chances of significant snow are far less than late May.