Quick report
Attempted Mt Ann. Surface hoar was observed in the meadow south of Baker hemispheres SE of swift creek. Creek crossings on thin snow bridges were a bit spicy. Above 4700 feet on northern aspects, snow was actively being wind-stripped. Spin drift could be seen in pipedream couloir and at its entrance. Wind-drifted snow was observed all along the ridgeline on northern aspects moving south. The final approach to Ann on southern aspects exhibited both wind stripping and loading in different pockets. Due to these conditions and concerns, we opted to descend via Suspended Animation, which offered excellent skiing on preserved snow. Another party attempting Pipedream Couloir also turned around due to similar concerns.
Weather
- Cloud Cover
- clear
- Wind Loading
- light
- Snow Avail For Transport
- small smounts
Snowpack
Conducted hand shear at 5150' on northern aspect of Mt Ann at 30 degree terrain.. Right side up snow pack starting from fist, to 4 finger, to 1 finger. Blocked popped off with moderate force about 45 cm down in 1 finger, pencil interface with an irregular fracture.