MCR Observation

Mountain Conditions Report

<p>Hi Folks<br /> The weather gods were on our side, allowing for travel beneath blue skies for most of this trip.</p> <p>Overall the entire Skyline Trail is in pretty good conditions.<br /> Some muddy sections exist, and there seem to be a few more snow patches lingering above tree line, in comparison to last year.<br /> Staying on trail will prevent 'trail braiding', and will keep the fragile wildflower meadows at their best.</p> <p>Some small un-bridged creeks have to be crossed along the trail, but none to difficult. Even the ca 8 meter wide, very shallow creek by Tekarra camp can be managed by careful foot placement. Wading it would be another option, as some hikers were slipping on the wet rocks.</p> <p>Caution, travelling the last 300-400 m to 'The Notch' (Pass), approaching from Curator Lake side, needs a bit more attention. Potential for rockfall from above, as well as poor footing in sections along this part of the trail, exist.<br /> Just below the pass, climbing up a few snow-steps on the very right side of the cornice, will lead you to the top.<br /> Amazing views await!</p> <p>Footprints were visible leading onto the middle of the snow covered area at the top.<br /> Although most of the cornice, hanging on this pass, has broken off, be aware that further cornice failure is still a real possibility!</p> <p>The campsites along the trail are in dry and fairly good conditions.<br /> However, the common theme amongst all of them, was the vast amounts of hungry mosquitoes waiting for their dinner - the tired traveller:)<br /> Without a bug net any camp activity will be an endurance test.</p> <p>Happy Trails, Martina</p>