Snoqualmie Pass

If anything, Sunday’s slightly cooler and drier weather should result in even safer avalanche conditions. You may push a bit of wet snow in very steep terrain, but it could take some effort. Most people remain focused on the abundance of obstacles.

Sunday should be cooler but not cold. This will allow the wet surface to freeze at middle and upper elevations and help eliminate avalanche concerns. You can expect generally safe avalanche conditions across the Snoqualmie zone. 

Even still, there are a few things to keep in mind. Where the surface doesn’t freeze or if the sun comes out and breaks down the crust, you may find wet snow. After nearly a week of middle weather, it’s hard to imagine this wet surface creating much of a hazard. You might trigger a few rollerballs or maybe push some snow in very steep terrain.

You probably have to get close to the tops of the highest peaks around the Pass to find a dry snow issue, but the top of Alpental picked up a few inches of snow on Saturday. If it feels more wintery and looks dry, lingering wind-drifted pockets could exist. Watch out for small pillow-like slabs along the highest ridges and in rocky terrain. Given the flip-flopping winds this week, they may be in some strange places. 

Saturday was a mild, drippy day at the Pass. Travelers mainly reported wet, heavy snow and a few very small “push-o-lanches” (wet loose). An avalanche professional on the north side of Chair Peak found a recent wet slab avalanche. The slide was about 100 ft wide, 8-12 in deep, and likely ran within the past 24 hours (see photo). We don't know what this failed on, but it could be the 12/22 crust complex mentioned below. 

At lower elevations, the snowpack is thinner and comprised of melt forms. You will find a slightly more layered and drier snowpack as you gain elevation. Last week, a weak crust/facet complex about 8-12 in below the surface was observed in the Alpental Valley and near the Crystal Springs SnoPark. It's worth discussing this layer before jumping into complex, unsupported terrain. 

We continue to hear conditions were “better than expected.” That’s great! However, travel conditions continue to pose the greatest challenge. You could find wet snow, breakable crusts, and firm slopes. Then there are all the things to hit (trees, rocks, logs, etc.) or fall into (creeks and holes). These conditions can make even a simple route much more rugged.