SNow Plow on Tioga Pass at Lee Vining

Well, that appears to be a photo of an avalanche on 120–one of many no doubt! still I don’t know that the snow is that massive all the way up to the pass. But yes, it’s going to be a while before Tuolumne is open! I wonder if the road into White wolf from the west will clear sooner?

coming in from the Valley up to little Yosemite above Nevada falls–and then up from there–may be a better approach. Snow melts fast off granite, and consolidates in the forest to make good footing–that is, no post holing, or minimal. The route into Merced lake opens earlier than most might guess. Avalanche areas are minimal. This year trail flooding will probably be a problem however. Still, for those willing to hike in wet shoes and pants up their knees, this is doable–if the bridges are all up! Going up from lake Merced towards Vogelsang is safe and avalanche free on consolidated snow. A wonderful day hike or overnighter. Again, there’s likely to be below the knee wading in some places. No rapids…I think! I’ve done this route in spring too many times to count.