05/15/2024
As we kick off another season in the mountains, rangers are heading back out into the field to monitor conditions and maintain the trails. Ranger Julien has just returned from Colchuck Lake after a patrol that involved essential early-season trail work, digging out toilets and gathering condition updates to share:
🌲Trails:
▪️ Stuart Lake Trail (1599) to Colchuck Trail Junction -- Mostly snow free with one lingering patch near the junction.
▪️ Colchuck/Stuart Junction to Colchuck Lake -- The trail remains 70% snow-covered with shin to knee-deep postholing. The trail is mostly packed down, making microspikes beneficial.
▪️ Trail around Colchuck Lake -- 90 % snow covered, the summer trail is buried, multiple boot paths around the lake can be hard to follow. Knee-deep post-holing is common, the snow was breakable and allowed for post-holing, even in early morning hours.
⚠️Aasgard was exposed to full sun by 10 am, multiple slides were observed on Colchuck Glacier and in the Aasgard area over the past few days, expect this to continue as warmer spring weather continues. Use extra caution when climbing or descending snow due to many hazards such as exposed or hidden creeks & waterfalls, open holes, thin snow and hidden rock. Please utilize the recommended travel route in attempting Aasgard Pass and double check conditions. It is imperative to have the necessary skills and equipment (and know how to use them).
🌊A majority of the lake remains frozen, but not supportable as the edges are melted out. Water is accessible on the lake edges and through some seasonal streams along the trail. Most campsites still hold 1-3 feet of snow, with more in shaded areas.
🦟Ticks are out, and mosquitos are hatching. Wildflowers can be found at the lower elevations.
🚻Toilets:
▪️ Toilets at lower elevations along the Stuart Lake trail (near the junction) are accessible.
▪️ The first toilet at Colchuck Lake has been dug out of snow and is available for use. Please utilize these facilities to help keep the wilderness clean.
▪️ The remaining toilets, including the core and other high-elevation areas, remain under significant snow. Packing out all waste using WAG bags or similar means is currently required.
❄️Weather/Conditions:
Conditions in the mountains, especially this time of year, can change rapidly. We strongly encourage all visitors to check the latest mountain forecasts before heading out and to come prepared for varying weather and trail conditions. This includes bringing appropriate gear for the area you will be traveling to and knowing how to use it.
🐻As always, we ask that you practice Leave No Trace principles. Pack out what you pack in, respect wildlife and be considerate of others while out on the trail. As the season progresses, we will continue to provide more updates on conditions.
