Trail condition in early May

[Halearun]

To hike in the 2 week of May 2012 do I need snowshoes For C2C trail
(To peak San Jacinto)
? Trail condition. Is it snow covered above 8k

[Ellen]

Howdy HA

Which trail?

Miles of smiles,
Ellen

[macman]

Just got down from a weekend roundtrip hike from the tram to San Jacinto Peak, then stayed overnight in Round Valley and back to the tram. We had snowshoes and instep crampons. In the am, didn't need the snowshoes except for a small bit prior to Wellman's divide. Heading up to the peak, the south slope is pretty exposed and it was clear except for one small section.

We saw plenty of people with microspikes. Also, plenty of people with snowshoes, but just carrying them. Round valley had some pockets of snow,but most of the camping areas were dry and clear. Coming down this morning, a bit icy, but we were too lazy to put on our instep crampons and made it down no problem. Days were really great, warm and clear. Night was a little cold.

Overall, the snow is melting fast and I don't think you would require snowshoes for this trip, especially in a few more weeks.

[Halearun]

Thanks for the info

Planning to hike the C2C Monday May the 7
Hopefully I don't have to carry the snow shoes or the microspikes
HA

[Ellen]

Howdy HA

You certainly won't need snowshoes for the Skyline portion to the tram. From Macman's report, I doubt you'll even need microspikes to get to the summit by then.

Miles of smiles,
Ellen