High Sierra Topix

Hi all,

I was thinking of leaving for Road's End early Saturday morning this upcoming weekend, and doing the Rae Lakes Loop in 1 night. I know there was a big storm recently, but the weather is looking sunny and warm this week. Does anyone know what the conditions will be like. Will Glen Pass be passable?

Thanks!

That depends. I suspect that asking the question means you have not backpacked this time of year before, which means you likely have not got much experience with winter weather. Solo, weather iffy (you can't go entirely by forecasts in shoulder seasons), snow in the high country already, no experience -- ambitious goal -- either give yourself more time, or don't go.

Glen Pass is always passable, if you have the gear and experience. I assume you mean passable by someone who's not got mountaineering gear, to which I could not answer, not having been up there... but there is definitely snow and ice in the high country right now.

Got it. Will have to postpone this one until Summer next year. Thanks for the advice.

When I'm unsure I just plan on an out and back, and if I make it cool, and if not that's cool too!

Just a taste of what it looks like at 9,000 feet today. Lakes starting to ice over.
Notice the footprints...punch through crust like cheap Styrofoam.