06 Jan 26 - Conditions Report: Rock Creek Snowshoeing

Conditions Report: 

Current As Of: 07 January 2026*

Activity During Report: Snowshoeing while breaking trail on known path along Rock Creek Road near Rock Creek Lodge

Conditions: 

I headed up to Rock Creek yesterday for a snowshoe outing and wanted to share what I found for anyone thinking about getting out there soon. The road was plowed-ish up to the East Fork Campground and Sno-Park area, but it is not down to asphalt. There’s a consistent layer of snow and ice on the road surface, so 4WD or AWD is strongly recommended with chains in the car and also proper snow tires. The good news is that parking areas were well plowed and clearly accessible—I didn’t have to hunt for a spot or park along the roadside.

Once on the snow, conditions were excellent. The snowpack is still cold and powdery, since temperatures aren’t getting above freezing up there to create melt-freeze cycles. Snow depth was roughly mid-calf—around 1.5 to 2 feet—and I was sinking down to the pre-storm layer, which was easy to feel and see as a firm crust beneath the new snow. I snowshoed up toward the Pine Grove Campgrounds and found travel to be straightforward and enjoyable below treeline, even though I was breaking trail next to the ski skin track. I didn’t probe all the way down to asphalt, so exact depth to the road surface is unclear.

The avalanche forecast for the day focused on conditions at or above treeline so I chose to stay below treeline for the day. If you’re heading into the area, please make sure to check the Eastern Sierra Avalanche Center (ESAC) forecast before going, and plan conservatively. Conditions can change quickly, and it’s not the time to push into exposed terrain.

For anyone wondering about layers, I was comfortable for most of the day in a sun hoody and lightweight pants while the sun was out--it felt surprisingly warm with full sun and all that snow reflection. Sunglasses and sunscreen are a must right now; the glare off the snow is intense and easy to underestimate. Once the sun dipped behind the crest, temperatures dropped fast. I added a puffy jacket and gloves almost immediately, which made a big difference for staying comfortable as the afternoon cooled down.

One bonus: the road itself is shaping up to be a great option for classic XC skiing, especially with the consistent coverage and packed surface. If you’re curious about trying snowshoeing or cross-country skiing this winter—or if you’re a seasoned winter traveler who isn’t ready to invest in new gear just yet—we rent both snowshoes and XC skis here at Eastside Sports. It’s a great way to get out and enjoy Rock Creek’s winter landscape safely and comfortably.

Stay safe, check conditions, and enjoy the snow.

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