Still plenty of snow remaining above 2800m

The Sierra Nevada still has some old snow remaining, unusual for this time of year. Particularly affected is the section SE and below the col de Cariguela and the traverse to Paso de los Machos. By the time you reach Loma Pelada little remains. Also the north side of the Tajos de la Virgen ridge needs some care.

Below the col de cariguela

Before 10am/11am the snow is hard underneath a soft top surface and care should be taken. I would still take crampons to speed and assist progress if you are venturing in these areas. If you don’t believe me have a look at these photos taken yesterday courtesy of Aisman on Nevasport.

There have unfortunately been accidents already. See “Another accident in the Sierras in a fall from los Machos on steep snow” last month.

The route into the Coral de Veleta should also not be undertaken if not properly equipped with crampons and ice axe.

Paso de los Machos

As a matter of interest there are still plenty of local granadinos that have been learning to ski in the past couple of weeks. Access is easy for the ski centre and fun can be had on numerous sledging slopes!

Related posts:

1. Aerial photo shows little snow remaining on Sierra Nevada high peaks
2. Another accident in the Sierras in a fall from los Machos on steep snow
3. Snow conditions – Sierra Nevada mid June
4. Final kick of the winter brings new snow above 2700m
5. Still great snow conditions for Sierra Nevada ski touring and mountaineering