This was a exploratory trip to see what trees had fallen over the trail this past winter and clear what we could below the snow line. We passed over some debris on the way up that we would clear going back out. Surprisingly there were no large trees blocking the trail. We got up to about 3600' at around noon. This was close to the bridge over Malachite creek. I continued up beyond the crossing heading toward Copper lake but found continuous snow above 3700'. The snow was hard and steep, so I turned back. Another hiker went on by and later reported about four feet of snow at Copper lake. If going passed the Malachite creek crossing it is best to have an axe and traction devices.
I headed back down to the rest of the trail crew and we started down, clearing logs and debris from the trail as we went. Now there is only one fallen tree, not far from the trailhead, remaining to be removed; easily stepped over until then. It was 32º when we started out but the day warmed up nicely for a very pleasant trip.
Comments
Ups n Downs on West Fork Foss River and Lakes
I've been planning on taking my 5 year old to Trout Lake on Sunday so you're work was timely. Thank you so much for your work!
Posted by:
Ups n Downs on May 02, 2019 01:13 PM
Maddy on West Fork Foss River and Lakes
I'm not gonna lie. See you standing next to that big beautiful tree with a crosscut saw freaked me out for a second. Those saws are too short anyway.
Posted by:
Maddy on May 02, 2019 04:42 PM
MarkMcc on West Fork Foss River and Lakes
Thank you for the trail clearing "hard" work. Very Much appreciated! Also very helpful to me to know the snow level. Great report, Thank You
Posted by:
MarkMcc on May 02, 2019 07:32 PM