*** Mailbox Peak is extremely serious in the winter. Make sure you're bringing maps, GPS (for your phone, check out and learn how to use GAIA, it's cheaper than getting lost), and proper clothing/gear. I helped 3 different parties who were confused about what trails were which. I'm happy to help, but it made me nervous to realize so many groups were out in the snow and low visibility, without proper navigation gear. If you don't know about the various trail junctions, don't head up the mountain.***
Short trip report: Climbed up the Old Trail and then descended the New. There are a few logs down on the Old Trail but nothing bad. Current snow line on the Old Trail is around 3,700', but because the New Trail is more sheltered, I kept my spikes on until 3,000' on the descent.
Roughly 4 to 6" of snow at the summit, though it was snowing lightly as I descended, so maybe more tomorrow. Trail was lightly packed out, and spikes were essential.
All in all, a beautiful cloudy day out!
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