Hidden Peak

We made observations on Hidden Peak on the West Shore today.  Around 5'' of new snow existed at the trailhead with up to 12 to 14'' of snow above 8000'.  The snow was right side up with no slab characteristics in lower elevation below treeline terrain.  As we moved up near the peak at 9000', the snow became thicker with more signs of previous wind transport and wind slabs.  Wind slabs were reactive with cracking and small test slope failures.  These wind slabs became deeper along the summit ridge up to 12 to 18'' deep.  SW winds were mostly moderate during our time on the ridge with only light wind transport occurring.  Snow quality was very good in the late morning on NE aspects.   We did also observe some small dry loose point releases of the rocks and cliff areas in this area.  Periods of sun occurred on and off throughout the morning hours with varying amounts of solar radiation.  East aspects warmed up by early afternoon with wet surface snow below 7500' and small roller ball activity.