12" or so of settled snow siting on the ground at 8800'. The higher starting zones also have an underlaying layer of unknown depth, I do not think it is deep enough to be a serious concern (famous last words....). I would guess that this may be faceted due to the northerly aspect.

Good start in this location!

The elk have been helpfull breaking trail. The only reason i was able to eek out a few turns was because I spent the summer riding this road and know the smooth sections.

Typical slipepath, starting zones is at approx. 9800' elevation. This area likely contains at least 15" of snow which warrants caution if we go high and dry. However the forecast is calling for warm and wet, this should help settle things down if we get some dense snow.

4WD low range was the approach tool of choice today. Would not have made it to this point without it. Had to creep down due to mud, slick!

Not enough snow for any real avy hazard at this point. Today was mostly a recon mission while I could still drive up high enough for a reasonable slog to the high country.