Intermediate Snowshoe - The Castle/East Ridge

Longmire parking lot, adjacent to the National Park Inn: https://goo.gl/maps/FkW4wupxk3x1sofYA

Sunday, December 1st at 8:30am.

We'll meet at the Longmire parking lot at 8:30am for introductions and a discussion of weather/avy conditions as well as the day's route.  When the Longmire gate opens (at approximately 9am), we'll drive from Longmire to the Narada Falls parking lot and get our day started.

We'll trek up the Narada Falls trail, and then follow either the Lower Lakes Trail or Stevens Canyon Road to Reflection Lakes.  From there, we'll head south to the ridge north of Pinnacle Peak and then head into the basin below Pinnacle Peak and The Castle.  Finally, if conditions allow, we'll ascend the shoulder to the east of The Castle.

Please note that the trip leader will ask the group to take a handful of short side trips along the route to investigate potential winter camping locations.  See "Campsite?" waypoints on route.

Route: https://caltopo.com/m/D91NP

Weather Forecasts:

• mountain-forecast.com
• NWS

NWAC Forecast: https://nwac.us/avalanche-forecast/#/west-slopes-south

We'll trek at a moderate pace with brief stops for snacks/views. Participants should have an excellent fitness base, as we will have an elevation gain of ~1500ft in just under 2 miles.  Total elevation gain of approx 2000ft, total trip length of approx 7 miles.

Chains must be carried in all cars (even 4WD). Those driving front or rear wheel drive vehicles may be required to install chains.

Park entrance fee or America the Beautiful Pass is required.