We knew that the Mineral King road was closed, because it is always closed in the winter. However, we were curious as to how it fared in last week’s fierce storms.
There were many places where mud had slumped down off the bank, but nothing photo worthy or a problem to a slow driver on an almost empty road.
Looks as if the flume needs a bit of work, just below the Oak Grove Bridge.
We crossed the bridge, went through the first gate (about 9 miles up the road), and then a mile or two later, decided we didn’t need to go any farther.
I waded across while Trail Guy put on his boots.
We then walked up the road to Lookout Point. Trail Guy was Road Guy before retirement, and he couldn’t resist doing a bit of work along the way. I asked lots of questions, trying to understand how he determined what needed to be done, and what was too much trouble for a shovel and an iron rake.
The view of Sawtooth from Lookout was very reassuring to those of us who prefer winters with a good snowpack.
This little section below Lookout is the steepest stretch of the road. Being somewhat unmotivated and definitely out of shape, walking to Lookout Point felt like enough of a walk, so that’s where we turned back.
Things are so open, so barren after the 2021 fire. It is a treat to be there when it isn’t hot and the air is clear.
A visitor, but he didn’t hang around for an introduction.
That’s enough for today. I will continue our little road trip along the Mineral King road in search of water (damage) tomorrow.
UPDATE FOR CLARIFICATION: These photos are posted in a strange order. The first ones of road collapse are BELOW Lookout Point, but ABOVE the gate. We walked up to Lookout Point, photographed Sawtooth, walked back down. I took a few photos on the way back to the Botmobile, then more photos of Trail/Road Guy doing a bit of shoveling.
ONE MORE THING: We went the day before the Park issued their ROAD CLOSED decree.
4 Comments
Wish I could have been with you!
Me too, Louise!
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