Got caught in a surprise snowstorm on the High Sierra Trail last October

We were near Precipice Lake, about 9,000 feet up, when the weather turned from sunny to whiteout in maybe an hour. Had to set up the tent in a total hurry and just wait it out for two days, which was pretty scary but also kind of amazing to see the mountains change like that. Do you think pushing on through bad weather is ever worth the risk, or is hunkering down always the smarter call?

3 comments

3 Comments

robinc2521d ago

Man, that reminds me of a buddy who tried to push through a sleet storm on the Colorado Trail. He got soaked, his gear froze, and he had to bail to a trailhead with mild hypothermia. Watching that happen really drove home for me that waiting it out is almost always the better plan.

victorb5121d ago

Precipice Lake is no joke at that time of year. You made the right call to stop. I've seen too many stories where people try to push through and it goes real bad real fast. The mountains will still be there after the storm clears. Smart move to just hunker down and wait it out.

black.amy7d ago

Applies to everything from hiking to just getting through a Tuesday. People forget that stopping is a valid option.