McGee-Mono Creek: Hopkins vs Grinnell vs Pioneer/Stanford Col Pass

[SC-Rachel]

Hoping to do a loop from McGee to Mono Creek 8/25-29. Which pass is easiest to get over/won’t require snow gear/spikes right now?

[leemur]

I just did McGee on 8/11/2023. No spikes or extra equipment. Warm/soft snow was necessary though.

[windknot]

Of the cross-country passes that go directly from McGee Creek to Mono Creek, Hopkins is the only one that has a defined use trail so it's certainly the easiest if snow isn't a factor. I crossed Hopkins both ways after a dry winter, so I couldn't tell you about feasibility without snow gear in current conditions. The McGee Creek side is on a steep, north-facing slope so I'd bet there's still significant snow there this year.

[SC-Rachel]

Thanks for the info! I really appreciate it.