U
Unregistered
Guest
Date of Hike: 1-1-2017
Trail Conditions: The trail had several fresh inches of new, fluffy snow and a solid base of 4-6 inches of a good, packed snow. The stream crossings were partially snow-bridged and easy hops got us over areas with a bit of visible water. It was a pleasant snow shoe over gentle grade from the Avalon trailhead to the A-Z trail junction although barebooting was certainly possible. We passed many hikers wearing snowshoes, it was very busy and well traveled that day (foot traffic more like a summer hike). It gets decidedly steeper from this point onward up Avalon trail, so your choice of traction is recommended. Toni kept her snow shoes on up the steep grade until Avalon Spur trail where she put on microspikes for that last 100 yards to the Mt Avalon summit. I had microspikes from shorly after the A-Z junction which worked well. No wind at summit, ate some hot chicken soup, took some pictures, and hungout for quite a while enjoying the nice weather.
Special Equipment Required: Traction was helpful, whether you prefer snowshoes or microspikes up the steap sections. Layers and warm drinks or food are always recommended.
Comments: Good way to start of the new year!
Your name: John & Toni
Trail Conditions: The trail had several fresh inches of new, fluffy snow and a solid base of 4-6 inches of a good, packed snow. The stream crossings were partially snow-bridged and easy hops got us over areas with a bit of visible water. It was a pleasant snow shoe over gentle grade from the Avalon trailhead to the A-Z trail junction although barebooting was certainly possible. We passed many hikers wearing snowshoes, it was very busy and well traveled that day (foot traffic more like a summer hike). It gets decidedly steeper from this point onward up Avalon trail, so your choice of traction is recommended. Toni kept her snow shoes on up the steep grade until Avalon Spur trail where she put on microspikes for that last 100 yards to the Mt Avalon summit. I had microspikes from shorly after the A-Z junction which worked well. No wind at summit, ate some hot chicken soup, took some pictures, and hungout for quite a while enjoying the nice weather.
Special Equipment Required: Traction was helpful, whether you prefer snowshoes or microspikes up the steap sections. Layers and warm drinks or food are always recommended.
Comments: Good way to start of the new year!
Your name: John & Toni
