We have hiked Mount Rose many times... but this is the first time we strapped our snowshoes on at the trailhead (yes there is a lot of snow up there!). The road to the trailhead required 4 wheel drive after the pavement ends. Was a tough climb. We were breaking snow starting at about 2500 feet and it just got deeper and tougher towards the summit. The snow on the trees was absolutely amazing. Awesome day.

Snow starts at about 2,220ft. It begins to get deeper as you get higher. Orange markers helped guide the way to the summit. Check my blog for more details. http://pacificnorthwesthike.blogspot.com/

Burned the turkey on Mount Rose. Took the short way up and down, a first for me. Deep snow starts well above horse camp. Lots of water on the trail. There was one small blow down well above horse camp on the summer route. pictures and details here: http://mosswalks.blogspot.com/2012/11/mount-rose-turkey-burn.html

Started out in the early cold morning but warmed up quickly on the STEEP incline. Had the mountain to ourselves all the way to the summit. Only a slight dusting of snow here and there. Trail in great shape. Did the loop and came down - passed 4 hikers on the way down.

Great workout, good hike, and trail is in good shape. Overcast and no visibility for lake views, but it was cool for the hike.