Conditions around Rabbit & Villager Peaks

[Zé]

Hi all,

I am planning an out-and-back dayhike up Villager and Rabbit Peaks from the S-22 for some point in the next month. Reading up on it seems like the area doesn't get too much snow; however with the recent significant downfall I was wondering what the conditions are like in the Santa Rosas.

I know this area isn't hiked all too often, but if anyone could give me any insight on the snowfall (or links) around Rabbit and Villager, I would really appreciate it.

Thanks,

[steve Irvin]

Martinez has very spotty snow from 3500' right now. I was at about 5500' on the 27th and it was'nt anything to worry about, since then we have only had warmer days. It's beautiful back there right now and the traction is good .

[Hikin_Jim]

If the weather holds, this might be a really good time to go. You could melt snow for water instead of lugging it all the way.

[Zé]

Thanks Steve, sounds good.

Jim that sounds like a great idea, would make things easier. Especially if we wanted to camp.

[steve Irvin]

Yep, cause back there you won't find any of my water stash.

went up to flatrock and back down today with tinaballina, and she talked about being on the trail with you. LMK when your back in the Santa Rosas sometime, maybe we can get together.

Steve

[Hikin_Jim]

Jim that sounds like a great idea, would make things easier. Especially if we wanted to camp.

Yeah, if you want to camp, you almost need to have snow up there. Carrying enough water for a multi-day hike would not be fun. When you melt the snow in your cook pot, pour in some water first, and then start adding the snow, stirring all the while. This may sound weird, but you kind of like burn the snow if you just put the snow in without pouring in some water first. It smells something awful. Burnt snow? Who knew?

You probably know this, but when melting snow for water, one typically gets "floaties" (small bits of organic matter) in the resultant water. Some people consider it a badge of honor to drink the water straight (i.e. with the "floaties" still in it). I find pouring the water through a bandana into a second container to be the better way. I guess that makes me a wimpy hiker, but whatever. I just don't find "floaties" to be appetizing, especially small insects.

[asabat]

I just don't find "floaties" to be appetizing, especially small insects.

Are you saying you prefer large insects?

[Hikin_Jim]

Yum, yum.

[bluerail]

There is very little to no snow back there now. Do not rely on it for water at this point.

[kane]

can you take a dog on the rabbit peak trail? What agency do you get the permits from?