San J on 2/28 or 3/1?

[Colin]

I just joined this forum. Anyone snowshoeing up San Jacinto this weekend that I could tag along with? I've never done it, but have a lot of 14er experience in Colorado, including a few winter ascents. I have all the requisite gear. I could go either day, but Sunday is preferable. Thanks!!

[Ellen]

Howdy Colin

I recommend taking the first tram up (8 AM) Sunday morning. The odds are good that you'll find other people riding on the tram that you could ask to tag along with. You'll probably only need snowshoes due to the softness of the snow. I recommend checking this board Saturday evening -- someone will probably have posted a trip report. Weather should be on the warm side -- right now the NWS is listing a high of 47 on Sunday for the summit and a low of 40.

Miles of smiles,
Ellen

[EnFuego]

Welcome Colin. This weekend should be nice. I can't make San J this weekend, but I'm sure you'll find loads of people on here that would be more than happy to go.

[Ellen]

Howdy All

Colin and I met each other in the parking lot and also ran into Doug and Carl. The four of us headed out together up the Sid Davis drainage. We donned snowshoes in Tamarack valley.

Due to the warm weather, I was grateful for the breeze on the climb up to Miller Saddle. The snow was more consolidated than two weeks ago but still quite soft. We bagged the peak, took pictures, and had lunch at the tram before heading back. The soft snow allowed for several enjoyable butt glissades going downhill. We enjoyed the ritual beer and fellowship at the tram bar. Colin has now been officially vetted (picture below) and I look forward to hiking with him again soon.

Miles of smiles,
Ellen

Colin at the summit:

[img][img]http://img408.imageshack.us/img408/6933/dscn3340.jpg[/img][/img]

The guys left to right -- Colin, Doug, and Carl:

[img][img]http://img522.imageshack.us/img522/4435/dscn3335.jpg[/img][/img]