Is there something special about heading up Tuttle Creek that you like?
In 2014, a low snow year (39%), the road to Horseshoe Meadows was open at the end of April. I headed over Trail Pass on May 4th and down to the Kern River and up to Wallace.
Last year the road to Horseshoe Meadows was open to the final gate on April 19th which is about 1/3 of mile to the trailhead. Last year the snow percents was 36%. I hike the area for a couple days.
This year, with the snowpack at 34%, I would think the road would be open at the end of April or at least by early May.
You could camp at Cottonwood Lakes and head up the from there, not Army Pass (old).... too sketchy.
Bob Pickering knows all the ins and out of that area, so you should ask for details once you decide n which route you take.
I've been up New Army Pass many times Memorial Weekend. The cornice, usually not a major issue, was never a problem for me.
Just my thoughts.
Oh, I live in Santa Clarita... so 126 to 5 is best, or 126 to the 5 and north to the 138 over to the 14. Or, take the 5 north to Lake Isabella via 178.
Paul
