Has anyone been up Kearsarge Pass lately? We were there a few weeks back and there was significant melting on the trail; I am planning a trip to Kearsarge Lakes and West Vidette and am wondering if snow shoes will be needed.

There's still plenty of snow above 10,000'. I would most definitely bring snowshoes, and be prepared to wallow in the afternoon. It's getting warm out there!

I am planning to get there on May 21. I would appreciate if you could share your experience. Have a nice hike!

I was up to the pass this morning (5/18). Nothing deep enough for snowshoes or even to suggest use of gaiters. I was glad to have my ice axe for the last few hundred meters below the pass. Good boot track or dry trail from Matlock Lake area on. Gilbert Lake is 75% thawed. Others above it are still frozen as were Kearsarge Lakes on the west side. Bullfrog showing about 20% thawed.

Here's a picture of the pass from May 14th: https://www.flickr.com/photos/125980180 ... 983158084/

Thanks for the photo. Taking a newb up this weekend. Looks great for that.

Just FYI although you probably already know the weather this weekend is not good:

http://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.ph ... z6I9XD2bup

Norma R wrote:Thanks for the photo. Taking a newb up this weekend. Looks great for that.

I was there on June 18 and camped at Charlotte Lake. It was snow free all the way. Day time high was 80s. Night low was 33.