Here is a report and topo from a few years ago:
http://www.mtnmouse.com/california/sne15_gable_lakes.htmlIn the Pine Creek approach you can see the line on the topo marking the old tramway. No, the branch from the trail is not obvious, even in the best of conditions. In the topo the route that follows the tramway it looks impressive, and steep. I haven't hiked the Gable Lakes trail in a few years, but recent first person reports from locals indicate that the trail has been heavily damaged by large avalanches and rock fall during this last Winter. The avalanche that came down almost to the paved Pine Creek road, caused massive damage under the tramway and in the canyon. As the snow continues to melt there has been continuous rock-fall across the Gable Lakes trail. In ideal conditions it is possible to follow the trail marked on the topo until reaching the old mine road from Horton, and then proceed up class 2 terrain.
You can see that the approach from Horton Lakes is much easier and safer, and is the one I have climbed and recommend.
