Hi all,

Looking to get around the Tioga pass area in Yosemite, sometime next week, to potentially do some simple "mountaineering", conditions permitting. I was thinking Dana/Gibbs. Anyone been there recently who could comment on the snow conditions? Are we talking crampons and ice axe to get up Dana from the Yosemite side (which should be a lot of fun)? Any additional information in the surrounding area (Lyell canyon, ragged peak, north peak) would also be greatly appreciated.

Thanks in advance,
Ben

Skied False White (near Saddlebag) last Saturday, climbed Cathedral last Sunday, pics are here:

http://www.flickr.com/photos/moosepics6 ... 938148099/

http://www.flickr.com/photos/moosepics6 ... 064739068/

Basically, the immediate road areas were melted out, but you would quickly get into the ocean of suncups all around:



The snowfields on Dana (westside) looked fairly minimal, and very soft by late morning (corn was just turning to slop by noon), so depending on comfort level, you may just take an axe. (from Cathedral):



Supposed to get really warm again this weekend, so I'd just keep an eye out for collapsing cornices, which are pretty awesome up there this year:


Have a great time!!

-L