Marion Mountain Trail Conditions?

[uclalum]

Hi folks!

I've been enjoying your post for a few years and even had the pleasure of meeting (read: being passed by) Ellen on a couple occasions.

I am thinking about hitting up the Marion Mountain trail to the peak tomorrow with a partner, but was wondering if anyone knew what the current trail conditions were like? How for into it will we hit snow?

We are both experienced hikers, and have even snowshoed with backpacks at Big Bear and set up a wilderness camp on top of snow, But that was along a forest service road which was pretty easy to follow covered in snow. We have plenty of wilderness miles between us, lots of winter outdoor experience, but we are light on the winter wilderness outings (probably a handful each). Neither of us have completed the Marion Mountain route before.

We are not looking for a crazy adventure tail we will be telling everyone for years to come. We have gortex boots, yaktrax (I know.. got them years ago for urban walking before microspikes were around) gaiters, and trekking pokes. We are NOT wanting to take snow shoes.

So, back to my original question... anyone know what the trail conditions currently are like from Idyllwild? Any advice to us for our trip besides layers, water, GPS, turnaround time, phone, etc.?

I appreciate all your comments.

Terry in Poway

[Hikin_Jim]

Terry, a storm is supposed to hit tomorrow (Sunday, 1/6/2013), so the conditions will completely change by the end of day tomorrow. Hopefully someone will go up soon and report back.

HJ