Heather - Maple Pass Loop — Monday, Sep. 30, 2024

Beautiful fall colors today, but still a bit early for the larches. Some were starting to turn, we saw a couple yellow larches, but most were still fully lime green. Still a pretty day though with all the other fall colors.
It was clear and cold when we started from the lot at 7:30, about 30 degrees. We prefer to go clockwise on this loop to take the steeper part on the way up rather than down. The exertion kept us warm, which was good since we weren’t expecting to see snow! There was just a light dusting, and other than being careful in a few places, nothing more was needed. For the most part, the foot traffic packed down the light snow, and where the sun hit it was melted by noon.

There were a lot of people headed counter clockwise on the way up as we descended, which slowed our descent. At least 200+. Parking lot was full at noon when we left, with several cars parked on the side of the road. About 50 degrees and sunny at that time. Bring layers and be prepared for the cold!