Most of the snow had melted off the trail after the weekend rains. Definitely no need for microspikes or poles on this day.

But the snow has not melted off the peaks, and they were magnificent! Amazing views at the end.

Pro tip: the first big flat summit (after the tarns) is not the end of the trail. Feel free to stop there and enjoy it, or continue the final ~0.5 mile to the top of the butte itself. It’s the most exposed section of the day, and involves a scramble. Very fun if you like that!

A brief report to share the latest conditions, since they can change day-by-day.

Saw probably at least 20 cars in the parking area on this partly-sunny Wednesday. No snow/ice on the road.

Most of the recent snow on the trail had melted, leaving several muddy patches. A few sections of the trail had snow mixed with dirt. There was only one icy patch, which could be navigated without spikes by going on rocks and dry patches. The final push to Yellow Aster Butte was muddy, would definitely recommend poles for this section.

Still great fall colors and berries to munch on, though both are a little past peak.

Trail did not feel too crowded. Friendly vibes at the viewpoint. There were a couple of off-leash dogs.

This is a fun, and very popular hike of moderate difficulty. The dirt road that goes to the trailhead is in good condition and is suitable for basically any car. However, there is some confusion along the road, as you will encounter a trailhead sign about a half mile before the actual trailhead. Not sure why that sign is there. Soon after starting the hike you will have great views of Baker, and the views only get better the higher you go. After about a mile of hiking you emerge from the forest, and begin traversing open slopes. Due to some early snow, the higher you climb the more snow you will encounter, and with cold temperatures (near freezing the day I was there) this creates some icy stretches along the trail. Recommend bringing micro-spikes. The final stretch to the top is quite steep, but you will be rewarded with great views on top.

Road has potholes here and there as well as some narrow sections and blind corners. I noticed more potholes on the drive down than heading up.

There is no parking lot at the trailhead. There are spots along the road to park before and after the trailhead. I could see this getting tight on busy days and weekends.

Pit toilet was stocked and mostly clean.

Trail is in good condition but there are icy spots. One section looks as a whole stream of water froze in place. I didn’t need spikes as poles and good shoes were enough.

There was only two others besides myself that started heading up in the afternoon which made it so I had the trail to myself most of the time. Occasionally had people pass heading down but was maybe less then thirty total. Lots of dogs on trail and only one of them was leashed.

Words can’t describe, and photos don’t do justice to, the spectacular view from Yellow Aster Butte on Monday, October 13th.  Hundreds of rugged mountains in every direction, all covered with a fresh dusting of snow.  Simply stunning!

The road has the usual potholes and rocks, and a couple of small gullies to cross, but it’s passable in any car.  About 40 cars parked at the trailhead at my 10am arrival time.

Shady parts of the trail could be icy, and the steep climb at the end was also slippery, but the snow was soft enough for kick steps by midday.  I had poles, but no micro spikes, and had no problem.  Some people had both, some people had neither.  About six inches of snow at the top.