Had an early start to avoid the heat so had an easier hike up the first part of the trail in the dry switchbacks.
Snow patches start just below the trail junction for Crystal Peak (4800 feet), though are small and easy. Solid snow starts at around 5,000 feet. The trail is well defined and easy to follow. Snow is slush enough for good traction, though the final push up to the lower lake basin has a short and steep section.
The snow cover varies from bare ground to 8 feet deep in tree wells, with the boot path winding on a snow platform above tree wells.
Lower lake at 5400 feet is starting to melt.
Otherwise trail is in great shape and hey, no parking pass needed!
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