Symmes Creek/Shepard’s Pass

You might have better luck in pre-trip planning instead of post trip reports, fwiw.

[I’m not sure it makes a difference because so many read the forums using the new posts link but good point and moved! -MK]

I would think that a phone call to the Lone Pine Interagency Center would be able to answer that; they’re usually pretty good.

Great suggestion Craig. Here’s the phone number: 760-876-6200

You might also contact the Mt. Williamson Motel in Independence.  They do a lot of hiker shuttling, and are intimately familiar with conditions in their area, which includes the “road” to the hiker TH.

(760) 878-2121

I was up there on a trip not too long ago. The road is pretty much the same as it has been the last couple of years. There were 2-wheel drive, non-high ground clearance cars at the trailhead. I have a Subaru, I’m good… but I think you basically have to drive carefully, and just try not to scape in places.

The trail is in good shape. I would imagine by the now the usual snowfield right below Shepherd Pass has boot-tracks across it too.