05-06-2016-Hotlum/Wintun Snowfield

Road access to Brewer Cr. trail head is currently limited by snow coverage. As of April 16th, 2016 you can only drive to within approximately 12 road miles of the trail head.  The road was blocked by a snow drift approximately 4.8 miles from where the FS 19 road splits from FS 13 at the Pilgrim Cr. snowmobile park.  Since the most recent observations of road access were made warm temperatures and rain will have melted some of the snow allowing for closer access. Expect at least 8-10 miles of mostly snow covered road before reaching the Brewer Cr. trail head facilities.  The current conditions on this route are great for climbing and skiing. The snow is transitioning into full spring conditions being firm and smooth in the morning, and corn snow developing in the afternoon.  The snow consistency will change with elevation and time of day. Climb early to avoid any possible post-holing on hot days. As with all the east side routes, sun hits them early and the snow will soften relatively quickly.  Loose wet avalanche activity is possible on warm days.  A beacon, shovel and probe are recommended. Even though you may not get fully buried by a loose wet slide, they can certainly sweep you into undesirable terrain and of course, still bury you in a terrain trap.  Rock fall has been low but always be on the look out, especially 11,000 feet and above. Wear a helmet!

This route is pretty straight forward with a couple variations possible near the top. Stay on snow, don't knock rocks down onto climbers below. Icy patches may be found in areas as the seasonal snow pack dwindles. Where most people run into trouble on this route is descending back to their car. It's common to miss your vehicle too far to the south (skiers right). Skiers tend to try and ski as low as possible on the long fingers of snow that extend below tree line...while we don't blame them, this will take one far to the south. When descending, be sure to make a gradual trend skiers left, aligning yourself between Ash Creek Butte and the large lava flow that abruptly drops off at around 9,000 feet. If you put yourself in between these two land forms, you'll nail the descent every time. Again, just remember to trend left at the base of the lava flow at about 9,000 feet, not too far, but by placing yourself in between Ash Creek Butte and the blocky lava flow. This is mostly an issue for skiers and when there is snow down to the trailhead.

Water is sometimes found flowing from melting snow fields, but don't count on it. Bring extra fuel to melt snow.