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Went up from Lake Colden and down via Lake Arnold. From the Loj to Marcy Dam was in gllod condition on the way in and completely dry on the way out. MD to Lake Colden had some snow/ice cover, but not enough to get any special gear out. Once we started up from Lake Colden, it wasn't long before we put on our micro-spikes (or whatever they're called) and our gaiters. There was a long slippery snow section, followed by a long slippery rock section, followed by a longer, more slippery snow section, followed finally by dry rock closer to the summit. The rock section was awkward because there was a stream coming down and I'm guessing descending that way would be even more awkward. On the descent it was mostly snow. On the first steep section I was thinking poles in addition to stabalizers would be nice, or even real crampons, but after that the angle eased and it was very quick going down. We removed our micro-spikes for the rocky sections on the way up, for the summit, and then about 1.5 miles before Marcy Dam on the return.
There's lots of running water and things should be melting fast, so conditions will change rapidly. Away from the narrow trail there's lots of post holing going on. Much more snow on the Lake Arnold side.
A most magnificent day to be out in the mountains. Not an insect to be seen or felt and glorious spring weather with some spring conditions to go along with it. Loads of people on the mountain, but we were quite lucky and had a very peaceful day.
There's lots of running water and things should be melting fast, so conditions will change rapidly. Away from the narrow trail there's lots of post holing going on. Much more snow on the Lake Arnold side.
A most magnificent day to be out in the mountains. Not an insect to be seen or felt and glorious spring weather with some spring conditions to go along with it. Loads of people on the mountain, but we were quite lucky and had a very peaceful day.
