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Early June 2017 hiking / Clouds Rest

PostPosted: Wed May 17, 2017 7:44 am
by afmiller
Hello, I'm planning out my hike to Clouds Rest from Happy Isle. I'll be taking the JMT over to clouds rest trail head. After all the snow this season, I'm trying to figure out if I need to bring micro spikes or snow shoes. I'll be in the park from 31 May to 8 June. It seems the lower elevations will be snow free. My concern is around the half dome/JMT split and onward. Any input would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks

Re: Early June 2017 hiking / Clouds Rest

PostPosted: Wed May 17, 2017 4:57 pm
by dan
I think the trail will be so trampled that snowshoes will only hurt. Spikes will help for the icy, shady parts. You could just wear boots with a "waffle" or Virbram pattern on the bottom (that won't help with ice--just snow and slush). Or wear "snow treads" (Yaktrax for example) on your shoes or boots.

Even if the trail is trampled it does not mean easy. Usually the trail is a collection of giant humps and holes to travel up and around if there's still snow on the ground (and in this year there will be).