The snow under 9800 feet is mostly gone thanks to the warm, late-spring weather we’ve been experiencing the past week. Currently, the snow line sits around 10,000 feet. With warm daytime temps forecasted for the foreseeable future, the snow line will continue to creep upwards. Keep in mind, however, that June is still quite early for getting into the Wind River highcountry. Even on average years, the highcountry doesn’t generally open up until the end of June or early July. With that being said, there are MANY long day hikes and small overnight trips you can take until the big loops come available.
Green River Lakes trailhead is snow-free, and trails are passable to Beaver Park. The trail to Slide Lake is open, but expect snow at the top of the switchbacks.; downed trees are also prevalent in this area. We’ve had several people inquiring about Squaretop this past week. Please know that the use-trail leading to Granite Lake was heavily affected by the blow-down and will be completely covered in most places.
New Fork Lakes trailhead is open to the upper canyon. The trail to Palmer Lake is opening slowly, but is still very muddy.
Elkhart Park is open to Photographer’s Point; past that, expect snow. Hiking (on snow) is possible to Eklund and Hobbs Lake. Most lakes in the area have not thawed yet. The trail to Miller Lake is snow-free. Sacred Rim trail is open.
Boulder Lake trailhead is open. The trail to Ethel Lake is free of snow. Lake Vera is not yet accessible. The Blueberry Lake trail is open to Lovatt Lake. Boulder Creek is moving a LOT of water right now, a very cool sight to see.
Scab Creek trailhead is open. More clearing will need to be done to open the trail completely, but expect to make it about six miles back before hitting snow that may turn you around.
Big Sandy trailhead is open and snow-free to Big Sandy Lake. Many reports of backpackers heading into the Cirque, although from the pictures I didn’t see much open camping; the Cirque is still under quite a bit of snow. North and Arrowhead Lakes are still frozen and the creek crossing over North Creek is running high. Deep Lake area is seeing the same pattern.
The bugs are out but aren’t bad… YET! Enjoy the weekend, and please give the shop a call if you have any updates on trails.
As always, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us with any gear or itinerary questions regarding the Wind River Range or surrounding area. We’re open seven days a week, from 8AM to 6PM. You can reach us by phone (307) 367-2440 or send us an email, info@greatoutdoorshop.com. We look forward to hearing from you!