Went up Ruby via Thunder Creek. Lots of flowing streams before Fourth of July Camp and there is one after the camp when crossing a small bridge before the Ruby Mountain trail intersection. Was surprised there was mostly a visible boot path from the intersection to the ridge even though it’s unmaintained. All the blowdowns gave further gratitude for the resources that go into maintaining other trails. 8.5 miles in at 6300’ there was a fast-flowing snow melt stream a little off trail which was the only good water source after the previous small bridge stream. Took the center of the ridge route up which had a few small steep snowfields starting at 6500’. They were fine with just poles except a 100ft icy section where exospikes were also used. The snowfields were easy to descend in the afternoon after it had warmed up.
Some big cornices along the top but the ridge itself was melted and easily traversed. It was humbling taking in the 360 views of the surrounding peaks, glaciers, and lakes. Didn’t see anyone the entire way until descending near the Fourth of July intersection and then it was busy on the Thunder Creek trail. Will in the future try the approach from Panther Creek to escape the crowds of the Colonial Creek CG even though it adds a few miles. Total trip, 18 miles over 7 hours of running and hiking.
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