Mount Ellinor — Saturday, Oct. 30, 2021

Had a blast making my way up to Ellinor today. My first time up using the southernly summer trail.

The road up to the upper trailhead has a few potholes but, for now, is suitable for all vehicles. It won't stay this way. I'm guessing within weeks it will be inaccessible. There's a privy at this trailhead(upper). Parking for perhaps 10-15 cars comfortably.

The trail from the upper starts out steep and never really lets up. From the head to where the snow starts the trail is in great condition. Surprising with some of the wind we've had as of late. For now, intermittent snow and ice start as you break from the treeline. As you reach closer to the top there's 2-4' of snow in most sections. Gaiters would have been nice. At ~400' from the top, the boot path veers left and involves some bushwhacking. I and most went this way to avoid crossing a "gully" without an axe. As the day wore on it did get pretty slushy. Poles were a big help with this.

All in all, I was surprised and happy to see so many people going up today. For me, the summer trail did provide a different and fun perspective on Ellinor vs the winter gully(also blast btw). However, I think the next time I hit this side it will be without wintery conditions.