Baldy Ascent

lilbitmo · Baldy Ascent

Ok, done the Ski Hut and Bear Canyon in past winter conditions but have not made it there this snow season.

Thinking of doing it first thing tomorrow - what I need to know is where does the snow start on the Ski Hut Trail? How hard is it packed this year up to the Sierra Ski Hut? How Icy is it on the rocks below the summit by the West Ridge Line? How Icy is it at the summit?

Then if you could, can anyone tell me if a trail has been blazed from Devils' Backbone to the summit? We are thinking of taking the Ski Lift up as an alternative to the first approach and cutting across the Backbone.

Lastly, what's the ice/road conditions between Ice House Canyon turn off and the car switchbacks before Manker Flats - might be going there at 4 AM.

Thanks in advance lilbitmo Very Happy

AlanK

On Tuesday, we went up the Bear Flat Trail and down the Bowl and Ski Hut Trail. Snow was quite soft as we descended on a warm afternoon. It was reasonably deep until we got close to the road. We did not see anyone who came up the Backbone, so we know nothing about the situation there.

The only place we say hard snow was on the long traverse beyond 9000' or so on the Bear Flat Trail. Of course, things will change day by day now with the temperature.

hvydrt

EnFuego

Lilbitmo and I did the summit via the Ski Hut Trail. Conditions were perfect. Look for our TR and pics on Monday.