Only 4 cars in the lot on this gorgeous Black Friday. We carried snowshoes the whole way but didn’t need them. Consistent snow starts about halfway and the summit had about 12” of old snow. Very wet on most of the hike, muddy in spots, waterproof boots are a must.
Road up was fine/potholey - if there is a large dump of snow below 3000’ then it will be impassable but essentially snow free right now.
Saw some tracks that looked like a cougar maybe? And many deer and rabbit tracks. Very exceptional day on the trail with the summit to ourselves. :)
Comments
DK1998 on Beckler Peak
Looks like an old cougar print that's had time to thaw and re-freeze.
Posted by:
DK1998 on Nov 28, 2025 07:48 PM
Ken O. on Beckler Peak
I'm more inclined to believe that print to be from a bear not a cougar. I've seen bear twice in that area, so they are definitely around. I don't doubt that cougar likely are in the area as well. I'm no expert on tracks and not intending to cast doubt so ok if people correct me. Thanks for the photo, regardless of animal it's good to be aware.
From an article, "Cougar versus Bear Foot Print. When comparing cougar and bear tracks, it's important to consider the size, shape, and gait of the prints. Cougar tracks are smaller and more compact, with four toes and a distinct triangular shape, while bear tracks are larger and more rounded, with five toes and a more rounded shape."
Posted by:
Ken O. on Nov 29, 2025 08:38 PM
DK1998 on Beckler Peak
I missed the imprint of a fifth toe at first, so you may be right.
Posted by:
DK1998 on Nov 30, 2025 08:20 AM