Summerland - Panhandle Gap — Sunday, Jun. 30, 2019

Planned to turn around at the Summerland Shelter but it was so lovely we went on almost to the Gap.  Few people for a Sunday - lovely blue skies and piled distant clouds.  The trail was clear and in good condition until crossing Fryingpan creek.  After the log bridge we encountered patches of snow, which lay in slushy/icy drifts across the trail.  Due to the exposure down the gullies, you had to take care with these crossings and I was glad of poles.  However, with careful footing others crossed without equipment.  It was slightly more challenging on the descent, where shaded portions were icey and gaps are forming under the ice crust.  There were only 6 crossings and so this was not a major impediment, but better to be prepared.  Up top, the elevated path was clear of snow, but many snowfields remained.  We met rangers with skies, hoping for a few runs.  The marmots were out and enjoying the sun.  A fabulous hike to be recommended for anyone enjoying views, easy footing (other than snow patches) and/or a lovely camping spot.