08-23-2015-Clear Creek

Update: The road to the CC trailhead has been repaired. However, due to the lack of rocky road base, the road is very soft, powdery, ash, "moon dust" some call it! In some areas it is deep. Two-wheel drive vehicles are making it to the trailhead but be warned about the soft spots. Keep your momentum!

This Clear Creek route is just about entirely melted out. There are lingering patches of snow in a few locations, but nothing big enough to make a difference in climbing conditions and will be melted out completely soon. Note that their is NOT a trail to the top. That said, their is a "trail" that is established from use over the years that one can follow here and there. It's good practice to not count on it, bring a map and compass/GPS and know where you are going. If off route, one will encounter rock fall, glaciers and much more dangerous conditions. We like to stress that even though the CC route is listed as the easiest route on the mountain, do not take it lightly and be prepared. The traverse above the Wintun Glacier to the Summit Plateau is the "crux" of the climb, (if you rule out simply the long, loose nature of the climb itself)! Rockfall has been encountered here. An ice axe, crampons and helmet are recommened for this route even though you may not need them. Advice to not bring these items has gotten folks into trouble in the past. IF you stay on route however and are comfortable with the possibility of some low to moderate angle travel on potentially firm snow, you may not need ice axe/crampons. User beware. The springs are a great spot to get water, especially as the rest of the snow continues to melt out. The water is not tested at the springs, but the rangers drink it often and have never become ill. Currently, you can find snow at higher elevations than the spring to get water, though you'll most likely be boiling snow and not find running water.

Please, DO NOT camp near the springs and STAY OFF the fragile vegetation. Rangers take this very seriously and you will be issued a citation if camping to close. Camp at least 100 feet away from any water source. PROTECT the fragile mountain ecosystem by treading lightly! YES, your single, big 'ol boot footprint, or lack thereof, can make a difference. Multiply one foot step by thousands and  understand that the place you love and enjoy can be destroyed if we don't pay attention to our actions.

This route will not change condition for the remainder of the season, until the snow flies!