Sand Beach Lake Trail - Milestone Hike #2

'A path in the snow' is how I am likely to remember this hike rated as moderate.  We arrived a bit late at the Wild Basin TH (8,312'), due to the usual gas/pit/snack stop.  As we laced our boots and cinched in our packs, we could tell the air was much colder than when we left Aurora.  Unsure what we may encounter in terms of existing snow plus fresh snowfall from an incoming storm, Ed and I strapped our snowshoes to our packs.

Ed leads the way on what would become a slick path of snow and ice.

Luisa and Beth, both active members of the High Country Hikers, were excited and anxious to get on trail.  It was the first Winter hike for both women.  

Luisa, Ed, and Beth make steady progress.

On trail, it felt good to be out in the Wild Basin.  Elevation gain began almost immediately.  Steep sections were many, flat areas...not so much.  Just over a mile from the TH, we passed the first of several back country campsites.  Trail continued to climb through pine forests.  The physical challenge was almost constant.  At times, my thigh and calf muscles burned from deep inside.

Beth steps off trail for a break before taking on another steep slope.

One of the back country campsites we passed today.

As we continued to climb, what began as patches of snow, became 6 inches, then 8 inches deep.  The last time I poked one of my poles in the white powder, it measured 10 inches.  That was at approximately 10,050' elevation, and 3.8 miles from the TH.

Luisa tried using poles today, and was glad she did.  Ed adjusts his pack. 

Snowfall continues to increase as we climb.

 By now, we had been on trail, climbing over 3.5 hrs.  Ed scouted ahead and saw nothing of the Lake so we decided to take lunch.  Due to the late hour of the day, an incoming storm, and over 3.5 miles of descent on snow and ice, the right thing to do was to return to the TH.  It was imperative we get out of the mountain before sunset.

Beth on lunch break.

Ed has a quick snack to refuel before shouldering his pack.

On our descent, light snow started to fall.  A fitting end to a challenging but memorable hike.
Beth thoroughly enjoyed her first Winter hike.  Her smile says it best!

A happy hiker.