Date of Hike:4/28/13
Trail Conditions: Early Spring conditions, OBP has packed snow/ice from lower view points to the Hut. Very distinct monorail in woods between hut and summit. Falling Waters has snow/ice/monorail from top to lowest stream crossing, lots of rock in third stretch but traction is recomended. One potential dangerous spot is just before the third crossing on FWT (heading up), large ice formations are melting from the ledges above and if they fall its an instant major injury to anyone underneath it. There was boulder sized piece in the middle of the trail. No way to avoid it easily just dont hang out in this spot.
Special Equipment Required: Microspikes essential. Snow was solid, I didnt see a use for snowshoes but this upcomings weeks forecast could make it possible. (my theoty hike early to beet the snow breaking down.)
Comments: Optional - I did my normal clockwise route. Not many folks out early, I saw one other hiker between the parking lot and the summit of Lafayette (which I had to myself). Weather was about as good as it can be. Ran into a some hikers going opposite direction. Only about 1/2 of those observed had minimal if any gear. I guess the 10 essentials does not apply in the spring. Ran into several folks without traction slogging their way up Falling waters in loose snow.
I will post pictures of the huts "new" solar system. Hut wasnt officially open but it was being opened up.
Your name: Peakbagger
Trail Conditions: Early Spring conditions, OBP has packed snow/ice from lower view points to the Hut. Very distinct monorail in woods between hut and summit. Falling Waters has snow/ice/monorail from top to lowest stream crossing, lots of rock in third stretch but traction is recomended. One potential dangerous spot is just before the third crossing on FWT (heading up), large ice formations are melting from the ledges above and if they fall its an instant major injury to anyone underneath it. There was boulder sized piece in the middle of the trail. No way to avoid it easily just dont hang out in this spot.
Special Equipment Required: Microspikes essential. Snow was solid, I didnt see a use for snowshoes but this upcomings weeks forecast could make it possible. (my theoty hike early to beet the snow breaking down.)
Comments: Optional - I did my normal clockwise route. Not many folks out early, I saw one other hiker between the parking lot and the summit of Lafayette (which I had to myself). Weather was about as good as it can be. Ran into a some hikers going opposite direction. Only about 1/2 of those observed had minimal if any gear. I guess the 10 essentials does not apply in the spring. Ran into several folks without traction slogging their way up Falling waters in loose snow.
I will post pictures of the huts "new" solar system. Hut wasnt officially open but it was being opened up.
Your name: Peakbagger
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