An introductory backpacking course this weekend saw our group follow the Sunset Pass trail to the Norman Lake campground. Between the Sunset Lookout junction and the campground, sections of the trail are buried under snow up to 50cm deep. The snow was supportive when we crossed it (early PM on Saturday, late AM on Sunday) and we had no postholing issues. The snow-covered sections are relatively short (30-200m) and the trail between them is in good condition. There are trees down across the trail at all elevations ranging from ground level to head level, but all can be ducked, dodged, or stepped over with an overnight pack. We did not continue past the Norman Lake campground, but spoke with another hiker who abandoned his trip to Pinto Lake when he encountered 1m deep snow and difficult travel descending from Sunset Pass.

Sara Mclean - AHG
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