Low avalanche danger and normal caution is advised today. Expect cooler temperatures and a stiff north wind over exposed terrain. The upper mountain is the real deal, hosting slide-for-life snow surfaces, rock and icefall.
A cold front dropped temperatures to 28 degrees near treeline this morning—the coldest in two weeks. Combined with a north wind, this should help keep the wet‑loose problem in check. Still, stay alert in avalanche terrain. Soft, saturated snow, pinwheels and rollerballs are the early indicators that larger wet‑loose slides could occur.
Example of wet loose activity
Overall, skiing and climbing conditions remain good. We are running a month or more ahead of a typical season. The snowpack is less than half of normal, and it’s already receding back from Bunny Flat. Other trailheads still have extended access due to snow‑covered roads. Smooth “slide‑for‑life” surfaces are a primary hazard right now. We’ve seen a little bit of rock and ice fall on south‑side routes as well. The lower mountain is generally forgiving; the upper mountain is not. Remember that Redbanks is not "almost the top". At 12,500 feet, you still have a decent bit of the climb remaining, including exposing yourself to the upper mountain. Redbanks is a great spot to check in: What time of day is it? How am I feeling? How is my group feeling? What's the weather like? Set yourself a turnaround time of noon to 1pm. If you're not to the summit by then, it's time to start heading back down. Be honest about your skills and stay flexible—conditions can change quickly in the mountains. Carry the 10 essentials, know how to self-rescue, pick good partners and pay attention out there. The mountains will talk to you; listen up.
