Got to the Alpental back lot @ 10 am, road was compacted snow and slush from 1-90 turnoff to the end of the road. Most of the 3 dozen or so vehicles in the lot were 4WD or AWD. Moderate traffic on the trail with an even split between AT skiers and snowshoers. Snow was good, a bit wet and a solid 3' deep. Snowshoes, waterproof boots, and poles should be considered mandatory.
Took about an hour to make it to the lake which has almost frozen over, stream crossings are snow bridged or completely covered for the most part. We debated going up Pineapple Pass, but low visibility and an abundance of skiers persuaded us not to. Side note, skiers can be moving pretty fast on the trail, be aware and prepared to sidestep as needed.
Additional side note, as snow layers continue to deposit/melt/freeze, there are areas toward the end of the trail with considerable avalanche exposure--Check NWAC forecast before heading out on this one.
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