There was some snow and ice on Sunrise Road this morning. By the time I left in the afternoon, it was all melted out. More snow is predicted for tomorrow, though. The upper road past the turnoff for the campground remains closed.
The trail is in great shape, with patchy snow and ice for the first 2-3 miles. There is a little ice (<1") on the log bridge over Fryingpan Creek and the snow becomes more consistent as you gain elevation in the steep sections past this point. Some folks were okay without traction, but it is definitely helpful if you have it... especially on the way back down.
Interestingly, when you arrive at Summerland, the snow thins out. This was my turnaround point, so I can't comment on conditions at Panhandle Gap.
Very few people out today at Sunrise.
**The park service announced this afternoon that they will be closing the Sunrise area for the season on Monday, 10/18. So just a few more days to get out to this part of Mt. Rainier.**
Comments
Looks like they already closed it, glad I read your report!
Posted by:
kenton_and_the_great_outdoors on Oct 14, 2021 02:29 PM