Granite Mountain, Granite Mountain - Winter — Friday, Mar. 3, 2006

Snoqualmie Region > Snoqualmie Pass

Started up the trail at 10:45am with no snow on the trail. Didn't put on snowshoes until the Alpine Lakes boundary sign. Snow was very soft, wet and heavy. Boot steps kicked in the snow up the main gully for 400' vertical, then veered to the left to follow the West Arm up to the tower. Had to take snowsnoes back off on the steep slope as the snow was soft enough to prevent traction. Definitely bring an ice axe but boots are good enough if you don't have snow shoes. Fantastic view from the summit and a quick slide back down.