6 replies to this topic

[Rusti]

We will be out in the Park next week and would like to trek up to Sky Pond again but, after reading reports about Black, etc., we're thinking we might run into rougher conditions. Any reports?

[kbat]

I am arriving next week as well, so I am also interested in trail condition updates. Any word on Flattop/Hallett?

[dianeh85]

I am told that flattop is still snowy on top and requires snowshoes or at least yack tracks. I was up at the Loch on July 12th with aspirations to get up to Sky Pond, but the snow is still covering the trail as evidenced by this picture. I probably could have made it up, but I am kind of a wimp when it comes to walking on snow and especially postholing. We also checked out Black lake and the trail was fine untill just befor the final ascent. Two more weeks is my best guess as to when the snow will be on its way out.

Edited by dianeh85, 14 July 2011 - 11:55 AM.

[mathguy]

Rusti, on 14 July 2011 - 07:31 AM, said:

We will be out in the Park next week and would like to trek up to Sky Pond again but, after reading reports about Black, etc., we're thinking we might run into rougher conditions. Any reports?

Here's what the Park Service web site says about Sky Pond.

"Still intemittent snow around the Loch, from inlet of Loch to Timberline Falls patchy snow and downed trees.
Timberline Falls is one big snow field, ice axe and knowledge of self arrest techniques recommended.
Lake of Glass to Sky Pond trail completely covered in snow but easy walk."

You'll still encounter snow on the way to Black Lake, but as of now it looks like getting up along side
Timberline Falls to reach Glass Lake/Sky Pond is a technical climbing exercise, so the hike to Black
Lake looks like the easier alternative.

[Rusti]

great information - thanks! Looks like Sky Pond may be out for us again this year. Thinking the couple we are going with haven't gone out to Black so that may be a good alternative. (and I love that hike)

[jflo]

Great pic Diane!!!

I've never seen this much snow in Rocky before so late in the season... so nice to have it though, it was definitely needed.

Edited by jflo, 15 July 2011 - 09:03 AM.

[HighPlainsMedic]

I looked at your photo and then looked at ours from Memorial Day weekend.. i would say the snow is about 80 percent melted off.. The Talus slop to the left is another approach and looking at your photo, it appears to be clear.. but Talus is Talus lol..