Snow Lake - Winter — Saturday, Jan. 24, 2026

With low snow pack and low avalanche risk forecast we headed for snow lake. Hard icy snow from the beginning. We used micro spikes the entire time. The most challenging part was after source lake turn off, with steep slope, decent exposure and narrow footpaths on icy snow. When we came down around noon, surface layer of snow became soft and slippery. There were a bunch of young people (about 20?) trying to climb up this section in just sneakers, no gear at all. They were slipping around, which was dangerous to themselves and other hikers. Under current condition, decent micro spikes and poles are minimum gears needed. Also check avalanche forecast and be safe!