Bandera Mountain

*Note:If you are heading east, you will have to bypass exit 45 FS RD9030 and continue to exit 47 Tinkham Rd, Denny Creek, Ashael Curtis at which point you will head westbound to exit 45 to access FS RD9030. The road is blocked due to structural damage to the overpass.
Phew! With that out of the way, today was a fantastic day to hike Bandera Mountain. The route was clear until just before the Bandera Mountain/Mason Lake split, where there was some snow covering the trail. The hike up the knoll was clear until the very top where there was a few patches, and shortly thereafter snow becomes the dominant substrate. I blazed up untouched snow most of the way, avoiding the heavily trodden and slushy looking path. The summit was snow covered but there were a handful of snow free view points available. I might add that the ridge to the summit was snowfree enough to accommodate a wide footpath. I'd recommend hiking poles and gaiters in addition to of course adequate footwear. All in all a fine hike, Happy Trails.