Our party of three reached the trailhead around 10:30AM. There was no snow on the road up till we got to the parking lot. No need for 4WD at this point--there were only a few potholes and only one major one that needed some maneuvering around. Do NOT park in the parking lot though if you don't want to get stuck!
The trail was clear for the first mile or so, with a few patches of minor snow. Snowshoes really aren't necessary on the trail to Talapus Lake; however, since the snow got a little icey, we opted to put ours on in order to use the crampons on the bottom to maintain traction because none of us brought other means of traction this time. There were several snow bridges to cross, one of which was a very small log across a little creek. Use care when crossing that one, as it is very easy to fall in. The snow got deeper as we neared the first lake and then perfect snowshoeing conditions presented itself at Olallie Lake. We did not encounter anyone till we reach the second lake. The trail is very obvious, although I did note a lot of tracks heading off the trail in other directions. We encountered about four other people on our way out.
Perfect snowshoe outing! Hiked/snowshoed about 6 miles RT, with 1220ft in elevation gain, and a lot of gorgeous alpine scenery.
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