Stujack Pass, Mount Pugh

I finally found a relatively snow free hike with great views. I made it to just above the pass but did not have the energy or inclination to try for the peak and there were plenty of great views from the area around the pass.
  
There are no issues getting to the trail, however, there is very little parking which is probably a problem on weekends. The trail overall is in very good shape but definitely needs some work in places especially as you get higher up in elevation. There are only about four blown down trees, on the trail, as I was able to remove several others from the trail without any tools. It always amazes me how many people hike these trails and never help clear them out. Anyhow, there is only one medium snow field on the trail to the pass and within view of the pass. The snow field is not steep and does not require an ice axe. The bugs were not horrible but I got pretty painfully bit by a few flies in the open and hot stretch just below the pass and above the snow field. Mud is not a problem and there are no issues getting to the pass other than the total elevation change.

I should note for those who have never been on the mountain that the pass is the notch in the ridge that appears as you look diagonally across the snow field (or boulder field later in the season). I lost the trail in the snow and wasted time hunting around to find the trail again. If you just head directly toward the pass you will automatically hit the trail again.
         
The conditions above the pass are a lot more serious. Based on other reports and the tracks I saw on the ridge it looks like people are making it to the peak without having to rope up. However, be warned that one would not be able to follow the entire route of the trail due to some very steep dangerous snow patches on the trail above some cliffs. You would have to give yourself plenty of time to find a safe route around the snow patches. An ice axe and traction devices are necessary and possibly more depending on your skill level. The vast majority of people would probably not want to go much past the pass.

I goofed around on the ridge and below for a while and did not make it back to my car until pretty late. Two other hikers/climbers who started at the same time I did and who did not appear to have overnight gear, to my surprise, had not made it back to their car. That means that if I am correct their climb was taking over 11 hours to complete an 11 mile trip. I am assuming they went to the peak as I never saw them again. Given the steepness of the trail and the difficulties at the top, the mileage is deceptive, so, give yourself some extra time to complete this hike.