Selkirk Mountains

The likelihood of triggering an avalanche is low at the moment. The snowpack is currently too shallow to generate a significant avalanche.  Due to the thin snowpack, your primary concerns should be broken snowmobiles and core shots to your skis.

Yesterday, we strapped on our skis and headed up to Blue Mountain (6552ft). Despite the shallow snowpack, conditions were ideal for ski touring. A supportive crust, located about 4 inches down in the snowpack, made it easy to navigate the top and maneuver around obstacles. Brian and I spent some time skiing uphill on the west side of Blue and later dug a snow pit near the summit on the east side. The snowpack measured about 70 cm, the deepest I've encountered across the Selkirks and Cabinets. The lower half of the snowpack is firm and frozen, while the upper portion consists of a mix of rain crusts and softer snow. The 6-8 inch slab near the surface sits on top of a soft faceted layer, which isn't currently a concern but is worth noting. If the forecast holds true and we receive a significant snow load this weekend, this weak layer may become more worrisome.

Weather models indicate a storm is expected this weekend! We'll have more details with the Friday forecast, but as of now, a robust system is forecasted to hit the Idaho Panhandle starting Thursday night and lasting through early next week. Accumulations of 1-2 feet of snow are possible! This could be the system we've all been anticipating. Perhaps 2024 will be a great year for us! Ensure your avalanche equipment is in order, engage your avalanche awareness, and get ready for some powder!