Twin Lakes TH

Ski crampons were necessary for travel on all aspects at 7000' this morning at 0800 hrs. We used ski crampons on and off for the entirity of our travels today. N facing terrain was beginning to soften around 9000' at 1100 hrs. However, around noon, a light wind picked up to a light wind with rather frequent moderate to strong gusts. North facing slopes remained firm from 9000' to 11000' unless they were a low enough pitch to receive substantial sunlight, despite above freezing temperatures even in the alpine. Below 10000', N facing aspects hold a supportable crust. Whilst traveling through the alpine, we discovered soft wintry snow exists beneath 2 - 10 cm of melt freeze crystals. This made travel rather awkward and difficult. The alpine northerlies were soft enough to be enjoyable for a very short period of time today. And, while we didn't witness any avalanche activity in the terrain we traveled specifically, we observed a plethora of wet loose slides from the last 24-48 hours, even in the high alpine above 10700'. 

It was a busy day in this region, and we encountered multiple groups unprepared to manage gear failures and injuries that arised. Always check your gear before leaving the trailhead, and bring a relevant repair kit with you. Also, a wilderness first aid course is a great resource for learning the basics of what to do in an emergency. Have fun, but be prepared out there! 

Numerous wet loose avalanches observed at all elevations and all aspects from the last 24-48 hours