Mt Lipsett 470014 Trail hike on 15-Nov-2025

Participants: Ernie, Annie, Neil, Pati, Zia

There was no snow in the weather forecasts I checked, but you never know what you're going to get. Be ready for every contingency. On Wednesday, Nov. 12, I hiked this trail, and it was packed with snow and ice, but it felt like a fall hike.

When we arrived at the trailhead (12.5 km from Highwood Pass), it was snowing lightly. The trail along the exploration road was snow-covered, and as we made our way, we had glimpses of the sun through the trees.

By the time we reached the long switchback where the trail opens up, the sky was an ominous grey, the snow was drifting, and the wind was howling.

The totally unexpected wild stormy sky.
The totally unexpected wild stormy sky.

The summer trail was drifted over, so we made our way to the first outcropping of rock, just west of the summit, and this is where we decided it was best not to push for the summit.

Where'd the trail go?
Where'd the trail go?

Despite the swirling snow, stormy sky and drifting snow and because the temperature was just below zero, it was exhilarating and quite thrilling. We felt like we were Arctic explorers braving the vagaries of nature.

The rocky outcropping west of the summit.
The rocky outcropping west of the summit.

Back row: Ernie, Annie, Neil. Kneeling in the front: Zia: Pati is missing-she's taking the photo.
Back row: Ernie, Annie, Neil. Kneeling in the front: Zia: Pati is missing-she's taking the photo.

Weather aps did say it was a mix of sun and cloud.
Weather aps did say it was a mix of sun and cloud.

Sculptured snow drift.
Sculptured snow drift.

Catching our breath as we head back down the trail.
Catching our breath as we head back down the trail.

The 13.4 km, 667-meter elevation hike took us 5.5 hours. It was a great day to be in the mountains.

If you want to see the wind blasting the mountain, watch Zia's GoPro video on https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H5117ggWENw.

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