SummitPost.org

I've climbed Elk Tooth in the summer (Indian Peaks Wilderness) and was wondering if anyone has any information on current snow conditions if hiking from Middle St. Vrain TH to the base of the "Gully from Hell" (as referenced in the SummitPost trip report)? Snowshoes required? I haven't done much winter hiking (and no winter climbing) so I'm assuming I should not attempt the actual gully climb without proper equipment/experience... true? Thanks!

Elk Tooth is a long haul in winter!!! Snowshoes, oh yeah! I'm not even sure it could be done reasonably in a single day. Climbing up gullies is usually not a good idea in winter as they're apt to be full of unstable snow. Not something to try to bite off if you haven't done much in winter. There's tons of better options... although I must admit Elk Tooth is a very cool peak!