Skyline Ridge

Our plan was to tromp up to Skyline Ridge, then either head along the ridge or down the other side toward Tye Lake. The road to Skyline lake was icy, packed snow. Microspikes worn by all. On the other side of the ridge, we encountered 4 - 8" of soft snow over a consolidated snow pack. Some wore snowshoes. We headed toward the gap to cross toward Tye Lake for a while, but then diverted to a bump (5400')overlooking the freeway with views of mountains in every direction where we had lunch and then returned by more or less the same route. Ice axes were used on the steep descent and ascent. Day was sunny and warm. 4 miles, 2000' elevation gain, 5 hours round trip.