Presidential Range

An icy, refrozen snowpack makes avalanches unlikely. Mountaineering equipment and well-practiced skills are required to safely travel in steep terrain and help prevent a dangerous sliding fall.

Expect to find a hard, icy snow surface on steep terrain, and a mix of hard or punchy-rotten snow around hiking trails. Avalanches are unlikely. 

Long sliding falls will be the greatest mountain hazard today. Cold temperatures, and strong wind will likely prevent the snow surface from softening, even on south aspects. For those that dare to ski steep terrain today, carefully evaluate the consequences of a fall in which you are unlikely to stop. Be honest in your assessment of stopping after a fall. 

Despite LOW danger, no mountain environment is without risk. Continue to make deliberate and informed travel decisions. As always, if something doesn't feel right, don't be afraid to back off and return another day.

How did we get here: 

The snowpack was warmed and wetted from rain on Wednesday/Thursday. Significant melting occurred as temperatures reached 45 F on the higher summits and 50 F at Hermit Lake. Observers in Tuckerman Ravine found the snowpack to be deeply saturated on Thursday. Over the last 24 hours, temperatures on the summit of Mt Washington fell from 20 F to 1 F this morning. 

The Lion Head Summer Trail is CLOSED due to increased avalanche hazard. The Lion Head Winter Route is OPEN and the most direct route to the Mount Washington Summit from Pinkham Notch. 

OBSERVATIONS: Please consider submitting an observation of what you are seeing in your travels. Submitting an observation hones your skills, informs other users, and improves our forecasts.