For most folks going up Icicle Ridge, they're going to turn right at the saddle and then take in gorgeous views of Leavenworth and Icicle Ridge to their left. If that fits what you're going for, the trail is basically completely melted out! Up on the saddle, there is still a small amount of snow, but nothing you couldn't handle in a pair of converse (I can't believe I said that -- don't wear converse on a trail!).
I decided to go ahead and take in that view, but then to go all the way up the ridge (turning left at the saddle). The trail is narrow and solidly snow covered up this route. Several switchbacks are cut off if you follow the laid tracks. They follow a good route. I climbed to an elevation of about 5300ft (4600ft of elevation gain from the trailhead) in about 5 miles. As the sun was setting and I forgot when I last charged my headlamp, I decided to turn around less risking a long hike out in the dark.
Snowshoes could be helpful if you're going all the way up the ridge. I was postholing a bit in my unorthodox trail-runner and gaiter combo. It worked though for the most part. Very solid feeling snow. Gorgeous views of Icicle Ridge, Leavenworth, and Highway 2.
Strava GPS: https://www.strava.com/activities/1474033380
Comments
Hi YOGI: If I am reading this right the snow is melted off the trail up to the saddle? Did you see any flowers along the way? Thanks Page Lane.
Posted by:
PageLane on Mar 27, 2018 09:28 PM
Yes, up to the first saddle the trail was melted out. There is some snow once you start working your way towards the vista to the east, but this path is short and there isn't much snow anywho.
No flowers yet, still a bit too early. Enjoy!
Posted by:
PaleoYogi on Mar 29, 2018 09:13 AM