High Sierra Topix

Hi there...
A group of us scramblers are doing a scramble route around Mono Recesses in a week or so. I'm wondering what kind of snow conditions would be expected on Cox Col. I know CA has had little snow, so I'm wondering how that has affected the col. Would it be melted out? Or would there me a permanent snowfield there still? And if so, how is the moat if there is one? Do we need to bring ice axes/crampons? Any details would be appreciated. Thanks in advance.

Hi Ree,

Welcome to HST! Cox is a steep climb with a lot of loose scree involved.
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Hi there...
Just got back from that area. For the benefit of those who are traveling up this way, Cox Col is snow free, except for an itty bitty patch below it, which is easily avoidable. It is all loose dirt, decomposing granite, and sand. No ice ax was necessary.

My husband checked the slot out because he was concerned about us dealing with loose gravel/sand on top of granite slabs. We were given some beta from climbers who were downclimbing from Bear Creek Spire... they used a notch north of the col, which they said was class 2/3. We headed for that instead of the col. It turned out to go nicely up and over the crest, though there were a couple airy moves with some exposure. I guess it was about class 2.

Also just got back from that area. Descended Cox Col on 9/6/2013. Cox Col is a mess as it's dry, loose and sandy. Quite treacherous. There is no snow or ice whatsoever. We had and epic descent of the Col, and I wouldn't do it again. North Col is a better option. Check out day 5 on this trip report:

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