Mailbox Peak (winter)

April 4, 2015. Nice weather made for a great conditioner up and down the old trail. Snowed earlier in the week leaving around 18 inches at the summit with snow on the trail starting around 3500'. Temps were chilly out in the open near the top. Traction devices made a huge difference for the last 1000' to the top. Leader turned around 200' from summit to help a distressed hiker with crippling leg cramps down to the upper trail junction. The hiker had been sitting in the snow (shorts, tennis shoes, sweatshirt), unable to walk and was shivering going downhill fast. Got him warmed up, gave him more water and electrolytes and helped him down about 800' to his hiking partner who was waiting below. Lots of people on the trail, many of whom were not properly equipped, making me wonder if this is a daily occurrence in the spring.