Big Iron Conditions

[David R]

I did Big Iron today after swearing it off about 15 years ago due to the miserable rocky descent. The good news is that with all the hikers that do this trail, the route is much more packed down and easier to descend. The bad news is at every saddle on the upper ridge, poodle dog is everywhere and you will brush against it so wear long sleeves and pants.

The route has changed a bit after the fire with the trail going directly over Bonita Peak now. There are also switchbacks when you leave the Coldwater Saddle as opposed to going straight up the spine. Allison Mine trail looks as bad if not worse than it did before the fire. Coldwater Canyon trail is almost impossible to see but from further up looked more defined further down the trail but looks pretty trashed after the fire as well. The lower section to get to the initial ridge is quite overgrown with plants that cause you to trip especially on the way down.

[dima]

Thanks for the report; I've been wondering. Guess it could be much worse!