HIKING -- "Road is open from Lightning Creek through to Trestle Creek," reports Mary Franzel of Hope, Idaho. But the photo she posted (above) indicates significant snow on the ridge at Lunch Peak Lookout. 

Creeks are still running high in most areas, making crossings a challenge.

Hikers are reaching Stevens Lakes near Lookout Pass without much problem, but the creek crossing can be a crux.

Farther north in Canada, snow is late to leave.  

Kootenay National Park rangers just called to cancel my camping permit for The Rock Wall Trail, a five-day trek I'd planned to start on July 5.   They said the famous trail would not be passable until at least July 10.

• I knew I'd be pushing the envelope when I made the reservation months ago, but there are rewards to taking a chance on the early season in the high country.