It's sad that we no longer have access to the Gold Creek Valley trail now that they have started the rehab of the Gold Creek pond, but with winter access to the pond allowed you can add on a short ramble up the valley as well. This is not to be taken lightly as the valley trail passes through avalanche zones. Today the avy forecast was low at trail level reaching moderate higher up (more specifically for south facing slopes). Having said that we are cautious and only planned on heading up as far as the first talus slope clearing beyond Heli's Pond. Once there we really couldn't see much snow higher up on the slopes in this low snow year and the slope was still in shade, but it's a good two miles from the road parking so that was plenty today. After crossing this section to admire the view we crossed back. Before you reach that section the trail goes close to the creek itself so that would also make a nice turn around point.
On the way up we started out without spikes but donned them about ten minutes in as they do make travel faster. The snow was compact and there was a decent boot trail as far as we went. We stayed on the road to the cabins all the way up, but on our return checked on Heli's Pond and then took the short connector to the pond trail and walked around that on the way back to the car. Very few people on the way up, and only busy once we joined the pond trail with lots of happy people enjoying the sun at the pond picnic area.
If there is new snow the section of valley trail beyond Heli's pond might be harder to determine as it's beneath the trees but not an issue today. As we approached and crossed the open talus slope there were some small water crossings that needed attention to cross safely. Poles for the win. Total mileage five plus.
Road side parking, six cars when we arrived around ten, but it was getting busy when we returned,. The road is currently clear and dry no issues with access. Two porta potties in OK shape, but stop at the traveler's rest at the pass for deluxe winter facilities. After we headed over to Hyak sno-park to picnic in the sun and I was very disappointed to see the heated restrooms there closed (porta potties available). After spending north of a hundred bucks for a season's snow permit you'd think you'd get something for that.
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