Took the 10 am tram up yesterday with Cameron and Kalen to play in the new snow. It was a beautiful but vigorous day. The late start and heavy/wet snow took it's toll and I called it at Miller Saddle around 2 pm. Made a new friend Tony Purinton on the way up we and descended together. My hiking/Facebook friend Ken Kirtley made the peak -- I posted three of his summit photos.
Climbing out of Tamarack valley.
Abundant rime ice, snow flocked trees and icicles.
After battling our way through deep snow-covered brush, we finally reached this little forested valley (looking back at the Santa Rosa's).
Normally, we head up to the Miller saddle. However, due to the conditions (snow covered rocks/brush), we stayed left. Kalen broke trail up the slope until we joined the trail near the Miller switchback.
I dropped my pack at the Miller saddle and walked over to catch a view of the Coachella valley. Took a short break before heading back down.
Gorgeous clouds on the descent.
See what I mean by inadequate snow cover
Alpine glow on the Sid Davis route.
My new mountain friend Tony -- another gift from San Jacinto. He is the Chief Lollygagger at Hike it Off Clothing and magazine.
Ken Kirtley took these photos at the summit -- had to share.
Miles of smiles,
Ellen
A great day none-the-less. 
