SummitPost.org

Greetings! My name is Jonathan, and I'm an avid hiker/occasional backpacker hoping to get a San Gorgonio day hike in before the end of the year. That said, I know there is snow and ice on the trail and I really don't have much experience with hiking in winter conditions. For gear, I have or can borrow gear microspikes, poles, windbreaker, a down jacket, gaiters, thermals/base layers, waterproof pants, gloves, hat...possibly an ice axe though I've never used one. I also have a tent, an air pad, and a 25 degree sleeping bag, which is obviously not warm enough, but would I bring these items, perhaps a liner and definitely a giant fistful of chemical heaters to keep myself warm in an emergency situation. As far as experience goes, I've done all the other SoCal 6 mountains, with an 8 hour round trip on San Bernardino recently in good weather conditions, Alta Peak in Sequoia, and an attempt on Mt. Whitney up to 12,000 feet, where my party decided to turn back because of a snow storm in October.

With that information in mind, does anyone know what the conditions are on the mountain, and if it seems like I'm prepared enough to attempt a summit on my own? If not on my own, perhaps with someone who is experienced in hiking in snow and ice conditions? I would love to hike this mountain before the end of the year and don't mind the challenge, but don't want to take any excessive, unnecessary risks either.

Thank you very much!

I may be heading up Mt. Baldy or San. G with another person that's also new to hiking in the snow/ice this Sat if you want to join.

Hi Kevin, I am definitely interested. I'll send you a PM.

Did an attempt on Gorgonio yesterday with microspikes and poles; left the ice axe behind on the advice of ranger Dave. Lots of new fallen snow, though a decent amount had melted on the lower parts of the trail by end of day. Above High Creek camp site though the trail was covered entirely with knee deep snow with ice underneath and the trail was very difficult to find. Microspikes, instant heat packs, and gaiters here were essential. Our group planned it as a day trip so we had to turn around eventually. Past