Snow levels - 4/21/2012

1,252 views7 replies
R
For anyone who is interested, I thought I would post the snow level I saw last weekend.  It isn't quite in district, but I backpacked the "other" Eagle Creek trail with the Boy Scouts.  The trail was completely clear of snow up until about 2100', where the snow quickly got deeper, up to about 18".  We turned around at about 2400' due to the snow making it tough going. It was a beautiful weekend - couldn't have been better for backpacking!
J
Nice. Our Scouts were at the Ape Caves, and experienced similar snow levels. Kind of a shame to be in a dark cave for such a beautiful day, but all had fun.
D
Update anyone?   Where is the snow today?
R
Snotel is sometimes useful, automated monitoring stations: http://www.or.nrcs.usda.gov/snow/maps/oregon_sitemap.html   No snow at Clackamas Lake!  3400' 11" At Peavine Ridge, same elevation but west.   If this weather holds up we may have early access to the high country.  That would be nice after the past couple of years.   72" at 4000' up near Hood!  Geez that's a lot of snow...ok I take it back.
K
It looks like the snow has been melting about 2 or 3 inches per day for the last week. Hopefully the trend will continue!
D
IMG_3196.jpgThis was the snow level on 5/6/12 at the Burnt Granite trailhead. I hiked up from below, but I believe you could drive up to the trailhead at 3200'. I was looking for  the old trail that came up from the Clackamas River. We have located the trail up to the 4650 0130 road, but haven't got it all the way to the present trailhead yet. Don
R
You find any more pieces o' trail?  Wish I coulda gone with ya.
R
Another report of snow levels in the district (as of 5/16):
You can only get to about 1 1/2 miles from the lake before you hit the snow zone, where Forest Road 6322 is impassable. Snow level is at 3,665'.