Anyone backpacked in Rocky Mtn NP in late December/early January?

[Zack Karas]

More specifically, where did you go and what was the route? How did it go?

I'm planning on 1 or 2 nights, either basecamping and bagging peaks or doing some sort of loop. Any related info appreciated–especially day/night temps, snow depth, easy or hard access from TH, etc. I know that conditions vary greatly, but hearing about others' past experiences always helps.

[Luke Schmidt]

My brother and I went up in January and did a day hike, I believe it was Battle Mountain (below Long's Peak).
Snow
There was maybe 2 feet of snow but the trail up to timberline was beat down enough we didn't need snowshoes. Above timberline it was pretty windswept but you couldn't find the trail. I know that year some parts of Colorado got less snow than the normal so check.
Temperatures
I don't remember the tempuratures. I would guess lower teens plus wind chill.
Trails
Above timberline we went cross country because the trail was hard to find. You'll want a map and compass. Our trail was beat down but side trails had dissappeared. The hike we did was good for us because it was fairly safe from avalanches. As I recall it was a long day so this might be a good one nighter.
Have fun.

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