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I hiked from Willow Creek Trailhead to the summit of Challenger in one day. I never made it to Kit Carson due to snow conditions and lack of proper equipment.
The hike from the TH to Willow Lake was pretty clear minus a few snow patches and tough water crossings due to high water levels. Once at Willow Lake, things become much worse.
The North Slope is almost entirely snow-filled still and it is tough to find hard spots to avoid postholing. I had micro spikes, gaiters, and trekking poles. Luckily I had these items as they were barely enough to help me get up the gully. Snowshoes are the best option to get up the gully until more melting occurs. Looking at this picture, you can see the difficulty faced going up that much snow for that length.
Once at the Challenger summit, being fully drained from the posthole hike up, I realized I didn't have energy for Kit Carson. Once I looked at the kit Carson highway, I realized even if I had energy, it frankly looks quite dangerous to hike at this time. I turned around without attempting it. I'd say waiting a couple more weeks will guarantee more safety on this route.
Thumbnails for uploaded photos (click to open slideshow):
Planning to try the Challenger/Kit Carson combo in late July. Hoping for a little easier time!
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