We started at the crawford path hiker parking lot and then took the crawford path to treeline. The weather was sunny and about 10-15 degrees fahrenheit. Perfect hiking conditions for winter hiking. There was snow on the ground and there had already been enough traffic on the trail so snowshoes were not necessary. At treeline we put on our above treeline gear (full wind protection required) and went the extra 10 minutes to the summit of Mt. Pierce. Eisenhower was visible. Monroe may have been visible. Washington was in the clouds. While we did not use crampons, if we were above treeline for more than Mt. Pierce, we probably would have needed crampons. It was windy (maybe about 20 mph) at Mt. Pierce. Then we descended quickly and got back to the parking lot at 2:30pm. Doug and I decided it was too early to stop hiking so we decided to hike the short Mt. Willard (which looked like it saw heavy traffic that day.) It took us only an hour to do the 1.5 miles 900 foot gain to the summit of Willard. Then we headed back. It was a great day for hiking.
In the parking lot, getting ready to go
Larry and Fred
Getting ready for above treeline
Summit of Mt. Pierce
Eisenhower in the distance; Washington in the clouds
Chris making final approach to Summit
Group Photo
Another Group Photo
Heading back down
This looks like a piece of art.
Centennial Pool (on Mount Willard Trail)
View from Summit of Mt. Willard
Webster Cliff
Doug on Mt. Willard
If you look closer you will notice there are no tracks leading to this snowman. It must be a sign from above.
Me