Followed the trail up, and down.
Road Conditions. Drove in via the Index-Galena road (17mi, 30min), out via the Beckler road (27mi, ~40min). Former route is unpaved for only 2mi rather than 6mi, but in both options were in good condition apart from some small potholes. Some frost on the road on the way in. No toilet at the trailhead itself (though there is a large hole on one end of the large parking area, so maybe it's a work in progress), but there is a backcountry toilet ~300ft along the trail.
Snow Conditions. Thin, intermittent layer of compact, frozen snow, continuous only close to the top. Brought, but didn't use, microspikes and gaiters.
Crowds. Encountered 4 other parties on the trail, taking advantage of what might be the last decent weather for a while...
Comments
onewhohikes on Frog Mountain
Beckler river road way is paved for 8 miles then the gravel road starts. It is a much more potholed and rougher way. A lot of times it takes long to melt out due to exposure. The Index Galena way has a wider road and like mentioned paved for a longer ways. Much shorted for those traveling from the west also due to the fact you still have to travel all the way past Skykomish to even get to the Beckler road. 2 cents
Posted by:
onewhohikes on Nov 30, 2023 07:21 AM
ejain on Frog Mountain
The Index-Galena route saved me about 10 minutes to/from Jack Pass (counting from the Index junction). The unpaved section is 4 miles shorter, but the Index-Galena road is also narrower at times and twistier overall, and more prone to getting icy. It's definitely worthwhile if you are heading to Blanca Lake or beyond, plus there are some nice scenic stops along the N Fk Skykomish.
Posted by:
ejain on Nov 30, 2023 11:11 AM