Hancocks Sunday 10/9 Maybe???

[grouseking]

It has been my plan all week to do these mountains rain or no rain, especially since I have an interest for them...so if there is no view I have no problem going back on a nicer day. My question-the several stream crossings that I would have to negotiate.....would they be passable 12 hours after a 3 inch rainstorm. These streams are all flash streams so I am somewhat worried about safety. Also, I hear the trail is very eroded up high, not to mention steep and probably very slippery when wet. Would it be better to just do something else if there will be a high mud factor that will kill the trail even more? Anybody hiked this in the rain or after a serious amount of precip?

grouseking

 

[evilhanz]

I was up there today in a mild soaking - not three inches worth - but enough to qualify to answer your questions I hope. The stream crossings are all broad and shallow with many jumping off points to choose from. It shouldn't be a problem if you are generally comfortable with crossings even at higher than normal water levels. If not, several crossings can be bypassed by following unofficial detours.

The obvious places to worry about slipping are on the steep ascent and descent. Since my last hike, there has been a lot of work to stabilize the trail on the North Hancock branch of the loop. The erosion problem seems to be under control in the worst sections. The footing in the old trouble spots is excellent. In fact I can't remember the climb up ever being so easy. As always when wet leaves are on the ground, take your time on the descent.

Drainage is generally good on the lower stretches - it was a railroad bed at one point, after all - so there are only two or three short spots of thick mud. It's nothing to worry about with good boots.

 

[grouseking]

I was up there today in a mild soaking - not three inches worth - but enough to qualify to answer your questions I hope. The stream crossings are all broad and shallow with many jumping off points to choose from. It shouldn't be a problem if you are generally comfortable with crossings even at higher than normal water levels. If not, several crossings can be bypassed by following unofficial detours.

The obvious places to worry about slipping are on the steep ascent and descent. Since my last hike, there has been a lot of work to stabilize the trail on the North Hancock branch of the loop. The erosion problem seems to be under control in the worst sections. The footing in the old trouble spots is excellent. In fact I can't remember the climb up ever being so easy. As always when wet leaves are on the ground, take your time on the descent.

Drainage is generally good on the lower stretches - it was a railroad bed at one point, after all - so there are only two or three short spots of thick mud. It's nothing to worry about with good boots.

Thanks for the in depth response! I will definitely take this into consideration. As long as there arent driving downpours Sunday I might give it a try. I think the heaviest rain will be over sometime tomorrow afternoon in the Whites as that front sags slowly to the south so HOPEFULLY streams will recede somewhat by Sunday. But thats a big if......

grouseking