Winter has arrived and I've been snow and ice hiking on the mountain this December. Depending on the weather, this hike will be snow hiking in Long Valley (very tiring, 1.5 mi.) or light-snow/ice hiking along Willow Creek trail to Hidden Divide (see below).
Snow hiking will require snow boots or gaiters, and heavy pants or rain pants. It is also likely that crampons will be needed. They are certainly needed for any ice hiking. You can buy them at an outdoor store like REI, and they can be found on Amazon. I have the ICETRAX V3 Tungsten Crampons and they work well.
If the snow is too deep or the weather is threatening, then this hike will be cancelled.
Willow Creek trail to Hidden Divide
This is a hike for strong hikers. We will take the Tram up and enter the wilderness and head up the Willow Creek trail for almost 1.75 miles to Hidden Divide overlook, and return the same way -- 3.5 miles total.
You should have hiked at elevation before (Idyllwild, Big Bear, Mt San Jacinto) and are comfortable with wet conditions.
Meeting Time/Location: Arrive at the Tram base station at 7:40 AM in order to buy your ticket. Get a ticket for the 8:00am car (first). You can buy these online during the fall/winter season. The cost is $32-$35. You can also use a pass. If anyone is not able to board due to limits on pass holders, the others will wait at the Mountain Station. If you have questions about this, email me. Also, those who are not local residents will have to pay for parking.
What to Bring: Ten Essentials, water (1 to 2 liters recommended), lunch/snacks, sun protection, layered clothing, hiking poles may be helpful. Carry emergency contact information.
Hiking Requirements: You will need to be in good physical condition for this hike. Click here for more information.
Contact hike leader: Joey D. email click here
Cancellation: If you cannot make a hike for which you have registered please cancel as others may be on the waitlist. You may cancel directly from your profile settings or notify the hike leader.
Weather Policy: Inclement weather cancels.
Registration for this event is limited to Great Outdoors members. To sign up as a member, click here
Health Problems/allergies: Discuss any medical concerns with the hike leader that may affect your ability to complete this hike.
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