Heather Meadows — Wednesday, Oct. 9, 2019

I had been trying to get to Artist Point all summer.  Finally got there today. But had to walk there from Heather Meadows.  The dropdowns do not allow me to accurately describe the conditions. I hiked the closed road from Heather Meadows to Artist Point. The road was clear all the way to Heather Meadows.  Above there the road is closed. Plows had been busy and the road was cleared and sanded.  There was 6-8 inches of snow on the road from the parking lot all the way up to Artist Point. I was able to use tracks left from some skiers who had come down the road.  This was much easier than breaking trail with just my hiking boots. Didn't remember my gaters, they would have been helpful.  I had a pole but no need for traction devices, your results may vary.  Took 90 minutes to get to the top.  Rested in the restroom. Stinky, but a snowless place to sit and rest.  Saw the only other people while I was on my way down.  One of the guys asked me between drags on his cigarette if Baker was still there.  Amazing walk down. The drive was great too.  Wonderful fall color and light.  The stillness I experienced on the way up leaves me speechless.