Completed several times once on Snowshoes Date Climbed: Jan 23, 2003
Climbed this great route several times, including once on snow shoes starting at about the 5,500 foot level, just a couple of days after a storm. No tracks but what a tough slug up and down the mountain.
First time on this trail Date Climbed: Nov 23, 2008
After doing the Ski Hut and Devil's Backbone about 20 times over the years I finally gave this trail a try. It was a perfect day; slightly cool and no wind to speak of. It took me about 3 hours and 10 minutes up and 2 hours 15 down. I really enjoyed this trail, not too many people on the trail and a very good workout. Not sure if I would put this one as more difficult as Vivian Creek. I'll definitely do this trail again.
Adverse weather conditions Date Climbed: Oct 4, 2008
Started in the village at very light drizzle. Between Bear flat and the ridge fog with some sunny patches. The last 2 miles to the summit very, and I mean very strong winds and rain at almost freezing temperatures. Had to take cover in one of the rock shelters on the summit; returned via ski hut since I was afraid of the winds on the backbone. Intense but rewarding experience.
I've done this trail a few times including once in the Baldy Peaks 50K ultramarathon where it was the route to the first ascent of Baldy in the race. The second ascent was via the Ski Hut trail.
This route is a great alternative to the Ski Hut route. It was quite windy for the last mile or two since you are quite exposed. Hiking this route gives much better views along the way. I'll be sure to do this in the summer :)
Training route for an early September one-day Mt. Whitney climb. Perfect! We did the Devil's Backbone trail too and didn't have a lot of trouble with Whitney. (We didn't do them in the same day, but that's an idea -- a very sadistic idea, but it would get you in shape for sure)