Strong winds at the trailhead around 9:30. Wind moving large trees, creaking and cracking - a bit scary. 12" of light snow. Snowing S2 and blowing hard. Walk up to the lake. No cracking under ski on the ascent. No collapses. Broke trail today 90% on the existing track from the other day. Visibility was very poor. 100% cloud cover. Felt cold. Back down saw a handful of parties going up.