Be warned – warmer temperatures that have followed last week’s major snowstorm in Colorado haven’t gotten rid of high-elevation snow.

According to El Paso County Search and Rescue, their team had to deploy a snowcat to rescue two hikers stuck amid deep snow conditions on the popular Barr Trail on Wednesday morning, with this trail traveling to the summit of the 14,115-foot Pikes Peak near Colorado Springs.

Thankfully, the rescue was a success and the hikers were returned to an area where snow wasn’t as deep.

This is the second hiker rescue that’s taken place on the trail in less than a week, with another rescue completed on Friday. In that case, rescue crews opted to transport the subject down the nearby Manitou Incline trail, which provides a more direct route down the mountainside.

Barr Trail is steep and often shaded, which can mean hikers will encounter deep snow and icy conditions that can make the ‘class one’ trail very difficult in winter months without the right gear. In cases of heavy snow, the trail can become virtually impassable. It’s also worth noting that avalanche risk still exists in the Pikes Peak region, with the Colorado Avalanche Information Center rating risk in this area as ‘moderate’ as of March 20, a two of five on their risk scale.

The presence of remaining snow isn’t exclusive to Barr Trail either. Expect snowy conditions on high-elevation and shaded trails around much of the state.

During this time of the year, it’s still important to bring traction along for a hike. And never be afraid to turn around if deeper snow is present. The trail will be waiting for another day when conditions don’t put you or those who may be sent to rescue you at risk.

If you’re interested in supporting Colorado’s volunteer-powered search and rescue operation, one way to do so is through the purchase of a CORSAR card. It’s cheap, at only $5 per year.

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