I hiked the full loop counterclockwise, ascending the steepest path (from the fork where the sign reads “difficult” and “more difficult” I selected the latter) and descending the Augspurger Mt. trail. I then climbed up part of the less steep path before descending to the parking lot. (Stats: 9.22 miles and 4160’ of elevation gain- I’m training for a climb.)
Not too muddy in the initial 2 miles or so; lots of small branches and leaves with a few blowdowns that were easy to step over.
There were some snow patches starting at the Puppy Dog viewpoint, which is also where the trail got the most muddy and wet. Slippery mud trench combined with slushy snow, high winds and fog made for slow going. I didn’t need microspikes but I was glad to have waterproof boots on with good tread and trekking poles.
The largest and deepest snow patch on the Dog Mt. trail was at the sign marking the upper junction with the Augspurger Mt. trail, about .10 miles from the summit of Dog Mountain. Still, just walk carefully and you will be fine.
The Augspurger trail had intermittent snow patches in the first mile of descending from the junction near the Dog Mountain summit, including one larger, deep one that partially concealed the trail by a rocky outcropping. But again with some careful steps it was easily crossed. I had the advantage of being familiar with the trail. I encountered 2 very large blowdowns on the Augspurger trail - one I managed to straddle and awkwardly climb over and the other (see picture) I had to walk around as it was huge. That tree looked like it recently had fallen. Also there were a few smaller blowdowns that were pretty easy to just step over.
Note: be prepared! Once I was above the trees on the ridge line the winds were relentless and strong- bring good layers! I used a warm hat, neck gaiter and heavy gloves at the top and for part of the descent. Near freezing at the summit with snowflakes blowing around. Foggy so no views until I was much lower down on the Augspurger trail.
Final note: outhouse was in good shape! Stocked with toilet paper! It’s just slightly uphill from the parking area.
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