Devil's Slide Loop

[pieceofschmidt]

My group and I are planning a weekend backpacking loop in the SJ's this weekend. We're coming in from the Devil's Slide Trail, and heading straight north past Wellman's Divide to the peak and spending night one at Little Round Vally, then looping around south on the PCT back to where we started. Anyone know what the trail conditions are like, and is there any problem following the trail along the way? Any info would be appreciated.

Thanks

[RichMcG]

16 of us just went up Devils slide Saturday. We hit very small patches of crushed ice on the switchbacks from Saddle Junction to Wellmans Divide, although through Wellmans Cienega the trail looks more line a small stream. From the divide there are large sections of snow, but there are footprints or tracks of dirty snow to follow. The trail towards Miller peak is relatively snow free, but at the top of the last switchback you encounter snow again. Just follow footprints up to the hut. You don't need crampons, microspikes or snowshoes. We encountered 2 guys who turned back, and one solo guy with full winter gear telling us we need crapons, but the other 30-40 people we encountered said it was no problem. I wish some people would keep their mouth shut if they don't know what they are talking about, we made it just fine! We camped at Round Valley (about 50% snow covered) so I can't tell you about Little Round (we were going to camp there, but the naysayers tol us it was completely snow covered), but only trust eye witnesses. Have fun, we sure did!

[Hikin_Jim]

Nice itinerary.

Can't comment on snow levels since I haven't been up recently, but without snow all those trails are in pretty good shape and relatively easy to follow.

HJ

[hydromeo]

I hiked Deer springs trail to summit & back on Sat. The snow is patchy after Fuller Ridge trail JN (9000ft). No clear trail from LRV to summit (final 1000ft), made my own trail to the summit. Be EXTREMELY careful coming down that section with heavy backpack. Crampons could help in this section, but snow in this section is interspersed with huge boulders. This could be a bit uncomfortable with crampons, if you have to step on boulders for footing. Although I was carrying crampons I didn't bother to use it. But I was wearing winter boots. Gaiters could help keep your socks dry. Camping at LRV shouldn't be a problem. I saw quite a few campers in LRV. Hope this helps.

[pieceofschmidt]

thanks for all the helpful info. def going to help me with my planning.