Snow and ice covers the road to the trailhead starting at the 5-way junction. We saw at least one vehicle that had spun out and ended up stuck in a ditch (it was gone by the time we drove home). Our vehicle is high clearance and 4WD, but there were still some very hairy downhill icy sections that really needed tire chains to be navigated safely. However, the ice clears up a couple miles before the trailhead. We saw several vehicles turn back before making it to the parking lot.
The trail itself is mostly packed snow and ice. Trekking poles or microspikes recommended. It was a pretty moderate climb to the ridge, but the descent from the ridge to Blanca Lake is steep and icy. Again, poles or microspikes (or both) should do the trick.
Bring lots of layers! This trail doesn't get much sun this time of year, so the air temperature stayed around freezing or below all day. Overall, a stunning hike on a cold, clear day. Dude tested, Nalabear approved!
The icy drive up and out was much less terrifying than the downhill sliding that occurred driving in. Strongly recommend tire chains for portions of FR-63.
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