A brief return to normalcy before a weekend that will bring unseasonably warm weather once again. Winter in the mountains is already over, though there are still isolated snowdrifts that could pose a danger.
Summary of weather data at 2.000 m:
Forecast: (meteomuntanya.cat and @meteocattv)
Snowpack:
We’re now in summer mountain conditions; there’s no longer any continuous snow cover on any of the slopes. However, the remaining snowdrifts can pose a problem that must be handled with care if our route doesn’t allow us to bypass them.
In general, hiking in the mountains in spring conditions, as we are experiencing them now, is not recommended for people without experience in winter mountaineering. The snowdrifts we may be forced to cross can vary greatly depending on the time of day; spring weather is highly variable.
Puigmal can now be climbed in summer conditions. We encountered isolated snowdrifts, which we were able to avoid without too much difficulty—both via Fontalba and via Embut. If we have to descend toward the north face, it would be a good idea to bring at least a pair of crampons for safety; but on our side of the mountain, there’s hardly any snow left.
If we head toward Noucreus, or want to cross over to the north face of Carançà, we’ll encounter snowdrifts, where wearing crampons—at the very least—will help us get across safely.
For Pic de Segre, Finestrelles, Font Negra, Coma del Clot, and Torreneules, we can follow the same route as for Puigmal, avoiding the few remaining snowdrifts. For Noufonts, however, the climb to the pass and the final section do feature firmer snowdrifts that will require us to carry safety equipment.
The trail from Fontalba to Núria and the Camí Vell are now in summer mode, with no snow that could pose a danger. However, you will find several trees that have fallen due to the harsh winter conditions, with heavy snow and strong winds.
Although there is no snow in sight along the Enginyers Trail, keep in mind that it crosses two narrow ravines where the sun doesn’t reach very often. We will still encounter remnants of snowdrifts that can make the hike very difficult, especially if we encounter hard snow or slip. Keep in mind that the trail crosses very steep slopes where a slip could be fatal. You must bring crampons and not hesitate to put them on, no matter how short the section. NOT RECOMMENDED for people without winter experience and the proper equipment.
