Hiking Kesugi Ridge in late May (Snow prepared)
I’m working a seasonal job in Wrangell St. Elias this summer but got up to Alaska with some day to spare and I want to fit a good backpacking trip in. I’ve tried googling for current conditions of Kesugi ridge, but can’t find any up to date conditions reports or trail recounts.
I am experienced in backpacking and have done trips of this distance and elevation change in the lower 48 multiple times before. I’m fully equipped with winter backpacking gear as well as snowshoes and somewhat aggressive micro spikes. I’m just wondering if an Ice Axe or crampons would be necessary, or if the trail is even attemptable in current conditions even with snow shoes. Initially I was interested in the bomber ridge but saw it involved glacier traverses which I am not as experienced with.
If anyone has input or alternatives I’d really appreciate it, thanks!
edit: should also note i’m looking to push myself with either conditions/weather/difficulty so I am not opposed to an unpleasant hike