UPDATED: 6/7/2022
It’s starting to feel a lot like summer down here in the valley, but snow is still falling on the high country. Elevations over 9,400′ saw new accumulation this week. We’re patiently waiting on that high snowpack to start melting off, but these late, consistent additions of snow mean great things for water levels, fire danger, and more as we head into summer. Hiking is possible and enjoyable on lower elevation trails, but don’t expect to link up any longer loops without your snowshoes for another month.
The mosquitos aren’t bad yet, but rest assured they are coming; I would give it another week or two before we start noticing them. They were biting on a visit to Lander this week, meaning it’s only a short matter of time for us. With spring run-off comes a lot more water, and around these parts water means bugs.
In better news, the week ahead is looking to be a great one. Get out there and have some fun!
Here’s the latest on the trailheads:
Big Sandy Trailhead (9,085’) – Snow Depth: 0″
I was lucky to have a conversation with the Big Sandy Trailhead supervisor this morning and he told me the road is open all the way to the trailhead, but the trails are still covered by snow. The trailhead campsites are also flooded, not in summer shape yet. For those still wanting to give Big Sandy a go, please drive slowly and carefully. The road is winding with may blind turns and driving it at high speeds whil it is still soft can tear it up for the rest of the season.
Scab Creek Trailhead (8,200’) – Snow Depth: 0″
Scab Creek Trailhead is open. With the snowline where it’s at, expect to make it 4 miles on mud and patchy snow.
Boulder Lake Trailhead (7,300’) – Snow Depth: 0″
Boulder Lake Trailhead is open. The snow has been gone from here for over a month and the trails are mostly dry. I would still expect you could make it as far as Ethel Lake right now. Blueberry Lake is fully accessible.
Elkhart Park Trailhead (9,350’) – Snow Depth: 0″
Elkhart Park Trailhead is open, but wet snow starts immediately at the trailhead. Expect up to a foot of snow on the first section of trail and more as you gain elevation. “Postholed my way to Sacred Rim” is how a local described his last trip out of Elkhart to me, and it seems that will be the case for two more weeks at least. Still winter up there!
Spring Creek Trailhead (8,200’) – Snow Depth: 0″
Spring Creek Trailhead is open. The road to get here is rough but short; 4WD and high clearance are recommended. There is a possibility of patchy snow and mud on northern aspects after this week’s storms. The Glimpse Lake Trail is only accessible to Glimpse Lake and no further due to fallen trees. The Trapper Lake Trail was cleared of trees by the US Forest Service last summer.
New Fork Lakes Trailhead (7,900’) – Snow Depth: 0″
New Fork Lakes Trailhead is open. Last week, I made it 5 miles up the canyon and seldom encountered a wet patch. I don’t expect much to have changed. It’s such a beautiful hike and the one I tend to recommend most often to those who stop in our store.
Green River Lakes Trailhead (8,040’) – Snow Depth: 0″
Green River Lakes is hitting its prime as the mud hardens up and the bugs have yet to come out. The camp spots will be filling up fast and the trails are likely already seeing some traffic. With its low elevation, it’s probably good to go for the rest of the season. For now, expect muddy trails with patchy snow possible.
If you have any questions or need advice on visiting the Pinedale area, feel free to give us a shout at 307-367-2440. Our helpful and knowledgeable staff are always happy to help. You can also write to us at conditions@greatoutdoorshop.com. Our store is open every day from 8AM to 7PM. We look forward to hearing from you!
Additional Resources:
Recreate Responsibly, Friends of the Bridger-Teton
Mud Season Hiking Dos and Don’ts, Appalachian Mountain Club
Bear Wise Wyoming, WY Fish & Game
