Democrat, Lincoln, Bross conditions?

[My-Therapy]

I'm planning on hiking Democrat, Lincoln, and Bross either Sat. or Sun. and was wondering what kind conditions I can expect to find. I'm hoping to just get by with my hiking boots and a pair of trekking poles. Any recent info on trail/snow conditions would be appreciated! Thanks, J. Hart

[skibum4life]

I would be prepared for some tall snow. Snowshoes would definitely be handy for the trek up the road to Kite Lake and crossing the little basin by the parking to get to the face. I wouldn't expect to get up the road very far, either, especially after last Wed. snow. Call the ranger district to make sure the road is open/plowed to a point. Keep in mind that much of the steeper route up Democrat is on the North, un-melting side. You'll definitely have fun!

[My-Therapy]

Wow, I didn't realize their would be enough snow to require snowshoes. Is their any avy danger I should be aware of on the standard route from Kite Lake?

[leadvilleclimber]

It is supposed to be snowing sunday. After all the warm conditions we have had that will make for a pretty slippery surface to slide on. Keep in mind we have already had 7 avalanche accidents in the state. HTTP://AVALANCHE.STATE.CO.US I would check pretty carefully if there is any new snow when you climb it.

[zoriloco]

Does anyone know what Ranger District would I need to call to get more info on the road conditions up to Democrat. Planning on giving Democrat a try this Sunday.

[zoriloco]

Just called the Ranger Office and they said road to the TH is closed around the mine. How much more from the TH is that?

[LTbear]

I'd like to know about this as well; I plan on climbing Lincoln and Cameron.

[Tornadoman]

It sounds like it would be closed at the Paris Mill mine, which is the Winter closing point that Bill mentions in the TH info part of this website.

Winter Access: Closed at the Paris Mill site which is about 3 miles up the road and 3 miles below Kite Lake.

[Jim Davies]

On the bright side, this means you'll get 3000 feet in elevation gain.

[zoriloco]

which is the Winter closing point that Bill mentions in the TH info part of this website.

Im not sure I know what post you are talking about. Do you have a link?

[Jim Davies]

http://www.14ers.com/php14ers/trailheads2.php?thparm=mr01

This is reached from the main menu (mouse upper left, click "trailheads"/"Trailhead status/Directions" from the dropdown)

[Tornadoman]

which is the Winter closing point that Bill mentions in the TH info part of this website.

Im not sure I know what post you are talking about. Do you have a link?

One of the main links on the top of this webpage (about half way over) is "Trailheads". Underneath that tab is "Trailhead Status/Directions". That direct link is below, and there is lots of good info there.

http://www.14ers.com/php14ers/trailheads1.php

[zoriloco]

Thanks, Im still learning my way around the site.

Seems that report was posted up before the big snow storm on the 28th. Even with chains and 4WD the Ranger's Office suggested not giving it a try. Ill see once I get up there what I'll do.

[coloradokevin]

Without trying to "Thread-Jack" here, and without looking for a political debate on the subject:

Are these peaks open again?

Last I had heard they were still closed, but I don't look into it very often. I'm well aware that peak-poaching regularly took place on these mountains throughout the closure period, I just haven't heard an update lately, and Bill's old sticky on the subject appears gone!

[zoriloco]

This might answer your question.

http://www.14ers.org/peaks_Mosquito_Democrat.php