Just wanted to quickly update the trip report on Blanca Lake, particularly on the snow conditions. I started a little after 12:15PM. 3 hrs, 58 min. C2C with 20-25 minutes of it at the lake.
- The snow is on the trail from about 4000' upward (estimating). It is firm, and snowshoes are not needed.
- I carried snowshoes and spikes, but the snow was soft enough on just the top couple of inches to prevent needing spikes (*See my next point though!). I didn't use them on the way in, and only put them on during the trip out so I could go a little faster. However, I was there during afternoon.
- The low temperatures may dip below freezing during the next week (http://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?lon=-121.34044&lat=47.94129#.VOFmTnXN-Zw). Spikes will be very helpful if the snow hardens, which may particularly be the case early in the morning.
- If you don't carry traction devices, at least considering carrying hiking poles. They'll make your hike a lot easier in places along the top ridge and down to Virgin Lake.
- Finally, give yourself enough time to do this hike! When I started, about 8 cars were in the lot. 12 when I finished. Going up, I only met 2 people coming down, passed a bunch of folks who were headed up, and there was no one at the lake when I got there. When I started down, I ran into several folks who started after I did, and some of them still had 30-45 minutes to the lake. That was around 3:15PM. Remember, the sun is setting around 5:30PM, and it gets dark in the woods fast. While the hiking on snow isn't really difficult, it will slow you down at least a little. At least carry ample lighting if you're starting late. I saw lots of folks on the trail today who were not well-prepared.
An additional note: There was a really wide tree that had fallen across the trail not far from the trailhead. I estimate it was ~3 feet wide. May not be easy for some less nimble folks to get over. Just FYI, in case you're someone who might consider that.
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