Yosemite Backcountry in Early June?

“How are the conditions in early June along the PCT from Tuolumne Meadows to Sonora Pass area. Thats when I expect to take the hike. I heard that the river crossing are pretty tough and that some parts of the trail are covered in snow. Is it do able? There should be less mosquitos and more flowers around then, at least were hope in. Anyone have any experience?”

“Thin:
It's doable, but if your route takes you through Emigrant Basin and Brown Bear Pass, I think that you will hit major snow fields that time of year, so be prepared.

Check out this link. It is a trip report for a couple of guys who did the Tahoe Yosemite trail in June 2000. They describe the snow conditions between Yosemite and Kennedy Meadows.

http://www.longtrails.com/tyt/”

“I was searching a month go and found their report, but thanks anyway. I think it should be a good trip, I'll just have to be a little careful.”

“have fun thin. I'm jealous. are you free-heeling, snowshoeing, or what?”

“In places there will be lots of snow, particularly Benson Pass and the 10 miles leading to Sonora Pass. The last section can actually be treacherous in some places. Don't count on there being few skeeters either, there most abundant during the snowmelt. Have you ever hiked miles of suncups 1-3' deep? Also prepare for some postholin', you might consider an ice axe and perhaps crampons too. On the other hand you'll have solitude and awe-inspiring views.”

“I have hiked in a snow before, I hope there wont be any post holin to do, but we will see.”

“If you are there in early June, you will find snow and some bad stream crossings. The trail will be buried for at least a couple of miles before and after each pass. Try to make the passes mid-morning when the snow is softer, but not at the wallowing stage as it can be mid-afternoon. Best is to not attempt more than one pass a day as the snow will slow you down. We left Lone Pine last year on June 6, got snowed on June 8th. That was a low snow year. Bear and Evolution, Kerrick in N. Yosemite were actively dangerous (we got swept off our feet at the first two) and even the little streams that are generally easy rock hops were deep. Bring an ice axe. Crampons aren't necessary.”

“Thank you for the advice. I'll report after the trip.”