Mount Shasta

Avalanche danger is low. Assess previous high elevation wind drifts for any signs of instability. Other notable hazards include rockfall and rimefall and spatially variable snow surfaces. If you intend to travel on the upper mountain, ensure your skillset is appropriate to your objective. A full mountaineering kit and strong self-arrest skills are needed to navigate Shasta's alpine terrain.

For any climbers, despite the recent bout of fair weather, winter conditions prevail on Mount Shasta. Mountaineering this time of year carries a higher level of risk and should only be attempted by those with proper training and experience. Currently, many high elevation features are coated in rime ice that could shed at any time. Minimize your exposure beneath these areas and remain vigilant for anything coming down from above you. Steep slopes also harbor slide for life conditions. A full mountaineering kit is required: 12-point crampons, an ice axe, and helmet, and the skills to use them proficiently.With increased cloud coverage today, monitor for any signs of a lowering ceiling. 

All recent observations point to a snowpack that is growing increasingly stable. While avalanche danger is low, that does not mean it is impossible. Exercise caution where blowing snow is observed, old wind deposits are present, or snow surfaces are becoming weak due to melt water. In extreme terrain, small avalanches can be consequential. Reconsider your travel plan if you observe signs of instability, such as shooting cracks or point releases.

Snow surfaces throughout the forecast zone are spatially variable, including widespread crusts, wind texture, dry or moist snow, and melt freeze conditions. This variability can also pose a hazard, especially where surfaces change abruptly. For example, unexpectedly moving from a supportable surface to a breakable crust. Mount Shasta by and large holds the deepest snowpack in the zone with shallower depths in the Eddy Mountains and Castle Lake area. Bunny Flat provides the best access for winter recreation. 

MSAC's 6th annual virtual silent auction is now live. You can check out the items available here. They will also be shown at the Snow Ball this Saturday!