[pct-l] early/mid June start date at Sonora Pass?

[Jim & Jane Moody]

Lauren, 

In 2010 we got into Sonora Pass on 3 July with a lot of snow still around.  Las t year I started north from SP on 1 July - WAY too early.  I had ice a x and microspikes, but what I really needed was a GPS.  Much time was lost navigating, even with map and compass and a good bit of experience. 



If you start at SP on 10 June, I recommend that you take an ice ax and traction devices and know how to use them.  Some of the big drifts and woodland snow will be around for weeks after most of the trail is dry. 



Also, I recommend you take a GPS with Halfmile's waypoints downloaded, along with map & compass.  You will meet some hikers, but they probably will be going a lot faster than you, at least at first.  Approach your hike as if you were going to be alone the entire time.  



Good luck, 

Mango 



----- Original Message -----


From: "Lauren Egert" <laurenegert at yahoo.com> 
To: pct-l at backcountry.net 
Sent: Tuesday, May 29, 2012 1:25:39 PM 
Subject: [pct-l] early/mid June start date at Sonora Pass? 

Hi all, 
I'm considering moving my start point up north a little - planning on leaving out of Sonora Pass June 10th. I realize it's earlier than when most thru-hikers would be there. I'm wondering if anyone knows the snow conditions in the area? Since it's been a pretty low snow year do you think it's possible to get both from Toulumne Meadows to Sonora Pass and north without any technical gear (ice axe etc)? I'm meeting up with someone who would be getting to Toulumne and needing to get over the Sonora pass to meet me on the 10th. 

Also, when do typical thru-hikers go through that area? Half the trip is the meeting of new random cool hikers such as yourselves.  :) 

I guess in general my question is what do people think of a start date of June 10th out of Sonora Pass? Weather and trail wise, (as well as other factors I might not have thought of yet?)  

Thanks for your help! 
Lauren 
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