The snow that was skinnable started around 3500 ft approximately. Had to hike up from the trailhead at 1800 ft. The snow in the woods was fluffy and got deeper as we went up. We busted a trail up and because of how the southern aspect of the final Ridge looked, we cut right (ne) up to a plateau instead of taking the summer trail west the the pass. The final slope was wind loaded and a small slab piece did come off as we traverses to the east Ridge at around 5500. Otherwise a beautiful day to be out. The downhill ski was cautious and did not take the steep face down due to how uncomfortable I felt with the observation. I should have brought my powder skis for the rest of the trail. I think you could have gone either way with skis. Not worth it for most of the forest, but great for the top.