Mount Defiance

We got to the trail head at 7:30. Already quite a few cars parked and more coming up the road as we got ready to depart. Several washouts on road - but many vechicles getting by them. No snow on the trail up to Mason Lake and to intersection. A bit past the intersection, we ran into snow. It's easy to walk off a switch back at this point, but with a little attention, the trail (numerous switchbacks) can be found. After a few hundred feet of snow, the snow dissappears, and the trail thru the woods is in good condition. One blowdown that is easily get-a-round-able. One get to the meadows, there is not snow at all. The side trail up to defiance is steep, is well travelled, and has a carne (but no sign). Summit delightful! Beargrass and some flowers are out.
Driving out was much more exciting than driving in. People were parked on both sides of the road at some points. The parking extended down for a mile or two. Some low clearance vechilces made it past washouts - but most were parked about 1 mile away from the trail head.
Cheers!