TLDR: Snow on trail at all time exponentially getting deeper. Traction devices highly suggested.
Started hike around 7AM with only two other vehicles in the parking lot. Bathroom was unlocked and very clean. The snow was freshly fallen from the night before and covered the trail the entire way which is a nice sight to see but tiring when you're the first one out on the trail. Finally met folks around 10:30AM. I've started to use my spikes around mile 3 as the snow began to progressively get higher. Last mile to the peak had snow that went to calf level and even knee level at times but the visibility was great on the east side of the peak. Weather was partly cloudy with occasional low wind. As the day went on, the trail began to be packed down with the increasing foot traffic which made it easier to hike overall.
Please bring adequate gear and equipment before starting the hike. Spotted too many hikers without proper footwear, spare clothes or even a bag and were attempting to get as far as the truck. Beautiful hike this time of year but please ready!!
Comments