Traverse Conditions April 20

[CasparHarmer]

Hi,
I'm an experienced backcountry runner from New Zealand who will be in the area around April 20. I'm worried that there will still be significant Snow/Ice on the traverse - What are the conditions likely to be like? I'm a confident map reader and am fit enough to hike the C2C, but I'm not really keen to do it if there will be a lot of ice around.
Caspar

[SoGoodSummits]

When I did C2C on 4/9/17, the traverse and Grubb's notch were almost completely snow-free. There was a TON of snow above 8500 feet. Many folks were summiting without traction, but I was grateful for my crampons.

The meltout between 4/9 and 4/20 should be pretty significant.

[SoGoodSummits]

When I did C2C on 4/9/17, the traverse and Grubb's notch were almost completely snow-free. There was a TON of snow above 8500 feet. Many folks were summiting without traction, but I was grateful for my crampons.

The meltout between 4/9 and 4/20 should be pretty significant.

[neverwashasbeen]

I did Skyline yesterday. There are still some patches of icy snow on the traverse, nothing more than about 100 feet. Half of the folks wore microspikes and half wore no traction devices. The snow is melting fast and you should be fine without any by the 20th.

[CasparHarmer]

Thanks for the replies guys! I'll keep an eye on the weather and maybe take some microspikes with me just in case. Looking forward to it! Oh, anyone who wants to do it with me... I'll be starting at the Museum 4AM, Friday April 21. Caspar

[Ellen]

Howdy All

Hiked Skyline yesterday with Marilyn. It's warming up in the desert even with a 6 am start. No clouds and hardly any breeze. Rescue 2 does not have any water.

At the traverse, a group of Canadians caught up with us. We carried microspikes but didn't need them. Only went off route once due to snow, which was good as the Canadians were following us. Enjoyed celebratory beverages at the tram. The Canadians kindly paid for the van back to the parking structure.

A Good Friday Skyline.

Miles of smiles,
Ellen

[bytebit]

Hi. I did the Skyline to the Tram last Thursday, the 13th and never had to use microspikes from the Traverse onward to Grubbs Notch. As Ellen said, the ice/snow on the trail is likely history by now. However, be mindful of the rising temperatures. I went through most of my usual 3 liters of water. Speaking of water, I've notice that no water exist in Box 2 (5400ft). As of now, there is a group going up on Wed. early morning (I personally know the leader) and I will ask every one of them if they do not mind taking up a bottle of water each to leave in Box 2.

Have a safe hike! David

[steveWhite]

Hey Casper
I'm visiting from Vancouver, Canada and am an experienced uphill hiker. I'd love a partner for this event. I'm looking to go Thursday, Friday or Saturday. Depending on how fast you go up apparently the temp can stay the same--and then cools. I'm getting some info from a buddy I hike with who did it three weeks ago. I'm ditching the microspikes. Sounds like they're no longer needed and who wants the extra weight? Lol.

Feel free reach out to me at Steve.White@TELUS.com

Cheers
Steve

[steveWhite]

Hey Caspar

I'm visiting Palm Springs at the moment and would like to join your 4 am Friday adventure

I'm an experienced uphill hiker. I have a ski hill / tram / steep trail right by my home in Vancouver, Canada.
My buddy did this hike a few weeks ago. He got to the Lodge in 6:45 which he said was really taking it very easy.

Are you still going?

Cheers
Steve

[steveWhite]

Thanks to all for the current conditions and great advice.

I made it in 5 hours with a heavy pack. 5 litres of water and only drank 2.5. Lol.

Starting near 4 am was a GREAT idea. This took all the heat out of the event. Nice.

I passed a group who started at 2 am and were carrying on to San J Oeak. They were fully loaded with gear.

Special call out to David for his helpful email and GOX tracks.

PS Only stepped on snow two steps. It's all gone.

Cheers
Steve