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How crazy would I be to think about attempting this on Sunday? Are the conditions too unfriendly this time of year to pull that off? If not, anyone interested in going?

The limited amount of daylight is often an issue at this time of year, but that's not relevant to you since you can probably do the whole thing in under 6 hours!

Snow and ice accumulate in the shaded/protected areas but I think the fall storms this year haven't deposited enough yet to make it an issue for this weekend.

For most people, a December attempt is probably crazy, but somebody with your experience can probably do it with few issues.

I'd consider joining, but already have plans this weekend. Have fun!

I would go in a minute but i have plans both days .

im planning to do it saturday. if we encounter any specific challenges that are worth noting i will check back here and post them

lack of sunlight was our only issue. we didnt start til 830am and made it to the top of peaks 4,3 and 2 by sunset...opted not to also climb browns in the dark since we had all done it before...descended the nastiness on the west side between 1 and 2. prob still safer than continuing the route. 12 hours car to car with 3/4 done...one member of the group reached exhaustion somewhere around the second summit and our pace dropped dramatically. still a great outing for a first attempt at the ML. will be back in spring!

Wow, I don't think I could get to all that with an 8:30 start!

Went up el oso road (from the east) and could only make it 7 out of 11 miles to the trailhead due to snow. We were in a regular clearance 2wd with no chains, could do it with chains and or 4x4. But otherwise plan an extra 4 miles before and after the hike. The snow was thick on the part that stopped us and it was shaded...I don't see it melting for a month or so

if you can't get up El Oso-- you ain't Motherloding...

Sounds insane, I guess youth has its advantages, good job.