Lost Creek Update

With many mountain locations locked in a seemingly endless winter, my wife and I went for a quick backpack in the Lost Creek Wilderness. We had expected snow at 9,500' and above ~ but recent warm days have melted nearly all of the snow in LCWA. Around 10K, there was some ankle-deep snow. We went in the Wigwam TH, through some of the Hayman burn area, to Wigwam Park, where we base-camped, and wandered around from there.

Seasonally (and photographically), LCWA is still in the beginning of spring. The aspen at lower elevations (~ 8,500') have spring leaves; while higher up, they just barely have buds. There are no flowers. Grass and willows are brown. So, the photo opps. are very challenging right now. I'm guessing that in 2-3 weeks, there will be big changes and nearly all trails will be snow-free.

Here's a beaver dam in Wigwam Park.

Dave,

Thanks for the info and the illustrative photo.

Mel-

Good to know, Dave. I like this shot a lot.

That's one huge beaver dam! Nice shot!

I haven't been to the LCSA for a couple of years, but the last time I was there a lot of trees were down across the trail in the burn area. Have the trails been cleared or do you still have to climb over the downed trees?

Thanks for the conditions report Dave. I have a trip to Lost Creek planned for June 14-15. It sounds like my timing will be just right.

Dave,

There were just a few downed trees, normal winter leftover stuff. All of the Hayman burn snags appear to have been cleared out - until the next one falls! Yes Mark, I would say you'll have great conditions in mid-June.

That's one hell of a beaver dam. It's like a beaver apartment building.

Thanks Dave! I plan on spending as much time in LC as I can this summer. It's good to hear the wigwam trailhead access is open. This is right in my back yard so I guess it's time to get in there!