by pkirkham » Wed Apr 27, 2022 12:25 pm
My buddy and I hiked to San Jac peak on Sunday April 24. We encountered way more snow than anticipated!! I'd read sanjacjon's report and updates numerous times during the week...the conditions on the day where much different than he suggested. We used microspikes on running shoes from Saddle junction all the way to the top and back down. Of course, there were some bare areas but overall we needed them to avoid a slip-fest.
During the descent from the peak to Wellman's the trail was basically a river with big puddles!! I do realize that with significant warming over the last few days the conditions will have significantly changed, especially in sun-exposed areas. I think most of the trail will have dried out by now, except for the last 1000' or so.
Just to put my comments into context, I live in Idyllwild and have multiple ascents in almost all kinds of conditions and I have to say these were the worst snow conditions I think I have ever encountered.
On a different but still significant note, my wife and a friend, on the same day, attempted to cross the upper Southridge trail across the gully to reach Tahquitz peak lookout. They had microspikes and trekking poles but still ecountered icy conditions about two thirds of the way across. They absolutely knew the dangers of trying to make that crossing but still tried to keep going until they got to the real icy section! Why they even tried the crossing still baffles me now...they eventually figured out how to turn around safely and retreat. They were both very shaken up about their experience and now, in the cold light of day, cannot believe they even tried to do the crossing when they know of all the horror stories of people who barely made it (myself about 30 years ago!) and the people who have perished over the years.
I think this story illustrates the mindset of people who know better, and still try and do something beyond their capabilities anyway...they think, it's just a little further to safety...