[pct-l] Snow Levels in Oregon

[Wayne Kraft]

Much is made of the snow levels in the high passes, but the snow data so far 
this year suggests that the high elevation snow levels in Oregon are only 
above average, not monumental.  The snow accumulation at lower elevations, 
say 3000-4000', is much more impressive, maybe unprecedented, at least in 
the era since Eric Ryback passed through. Take a look at this graph of the 
Snotel site Blazed Alder.  Blazed Alder is at 3650' near Mt. Hood.  It is 
not on the PCT but it is close enough to give you an idea what is on the 
ground right now in the lower elevations from, say, Timothy Lake to Wahtum 
Lake:

http://www.wcc.nrcs.usda.gov/cgibin/wygraph-swe-only.pl?stationidname=21d33s-Blazed%20Alder&state=OR

Keep in mind that a hiker who leaves Timberline Lodge at 6000' at daybreak 
and hikes the PCT northbound will likely have lunch near the Sandy River at 
less than 3000'.

Current conditions are no guarantee of conditions come August, but it seems 
unlikely that this year will play out without some events that add adventure 
to a PCT hike.  If the snow stays late, we'll be hiking over snow in places 
like the Three Sisters Wilderness.  If there is an early rapid melt, erosion 
will challenge trail maintainers' ability to repair the trail before hikers 
arrive.  It should be interesting.

What will future years bring?  Interesting article here:

http://ibdeditorial.com/IBDArticles.aspx?id=287279412587175

Hmmm.  Where's that Arizona Trail website again?