Some exciting stream crossings between Pine Creek and Silver Pass, especially at Bear Creek and the north fork of Mono Creek. At Mono, we went downstream a short distance and made three short crossings instead of one hair-raising one. Bring your DEET, mosquitoes everywhere.

Snow is remaining solid above 11, 000 feet. Mather seems to be the most difficult currently, use caution. There are three routes up the pass; rocks do not appear to be the safest path up the pass. Snow gear still advised, especially winter boots for stability on the passes. Snow is melting at about a foot a week on Kearsarge Pass. The afternoon snow is your classic Sierra Soup so plan your hike up passes accordingly for an easier and safer climb. When hiking in the cold mornings you may choose to use snowshoes or crampons. Remember to slow down and carry extra food.

This report is from Captain Morgan and covers his walk from Tuolomine Meadows to Reds Meadows in last few days.
The trail is generally clear of snow except for areas above 10,000 ft. The section of trail between Virginia Canyon Trail (mile 959) and Miller Lake (mile 962) is covered with frozen snow. The trail is in a sheltered valley that protects the snow from melting. Expect it to remain this way for a long time.
The ford at Cascade Creek (mile 1002)is running high. Captain Morgan said that it was up to his armpits and he is 6"4".

This report covers 17 to 21 June 2010. I consider the snow conditions mentioned here to be the same throughout the Sierras. Snow continues to be the big problem. From Kearsarge Pass (mile 792) to Bishop Pass (mile 832) snow is solid above 10,500 feet. Trailfinding at this altitude is impossible requiring crosscountry map and compass skills.
From 10,500 ft down to 9,000 ft the snow gradually thins out. The walking is consistently difficult because of the irregular snow surfaces and the constant problem of losing the trail under the snow.
All passes are snow covered with long snowfields on the north and south approaches. The Golden Staircase (mile 823) is clear of snow and ice.
All rivers and streams are fordable with the usual precautions. The bridges in this section are in good shape.
Below 9,000 ft the trail is clear of snow.
Yesterday Ranger Rick Senger started his first day at Le Conte Ranger Station at Bishop Pass (mile 932). Stop and say high. He is trying out a new video camera this year.

Anything above 10, 000 remains solid. South facing sections of trail have clear sections with snow fields up to 40 feet in length and 1-5 feet in depth. Forester Pass is doable, but does require rigid footwear, the cornice is very vertical, should not be attempted without an ice ax. Creeks remain low for easy crossing. SLOW DOWN AND DOUBLE UP ON YOUR FOOD

There is about 2 feet of fresh snow above 10,000 feet, and a slushy mush layer down to about 8,000 as of this lovely Wednesday morning. The snow should be melting down, but this was a pretty major storm with a lot of accumulation in a short period of time. Maybe it will all melt off soon, but if you are heading out this weekend come ready for winter conditions.