Quick report
- Aspect
- Northwest
- Red Flags
- Wind Loading, Poor Snowpack Structure
Started the day with a low-cloud ceiling and warm temps around 25 degrees F. The air was still, and quite pleasant at Soapstone TH. Moved from there toward Bald Mtn. Pass via Highway 150. As expected, riding conditions increased with elevation gain and the sun had begun to show itself around 0900.
At 9,800’ around the trial lake area, riding conditions improved in low-angle sheltered terrain out of the wind. The pattern continued and conditions increased all the way up to the pass.
Very little avalanche activity was observed. A small windslab was noted on the north face of Mt. Murdock at 11,000’ near Bald Mtn. Pass and most likely released during this week’s weather events.
The riding continued to be 5-stars in low-angle sheltered terrain at upper elevations where the snowpack was fat and consistent. But -- many open meadows and exposed portions of terrain still presented objective hazards such as rocks and stumps, be careful out there and chose wisely while the snow continues to stack up!
Snowpack
- Instability Comment
- <p>Plenty of fresh snow fell this past week. With winds ramping up again today, widespread wind -oading and wind-affected snow were evident.</p> <p>At the end of the day, poor structure trumps all. Pull out a shovel, dig down to the ground and see for yourself. At the end of the day, this poor structure is enough to keep my riding party and myself off of avalanche terrain on the north half of the compass. We enjoyed low-angle five-star powder riding without pulling the tail of the avalanche dragon, and made it home safely to do it again. </p>