Elkhorns

You are unlikely to trigger an avalanche today, and a generally stable snowpack exists at all elevations. Watch for challenging surface conditions such as sun crusts, wind stiffened snow, and scoured surfaces. The best travel and riding conditions exist in shaded terrain below treeline. 

This forecast is sponsored by Skejersaa Group 

What to Expect: Today the largest backcountry hazard remains tricky surface conditions, where a slip on a thick sun crust or wind-stiffened snow could result in a sliding fall in consequential terrain. The sun may have time to soften the snow surface in terrain facing south if incoming clouds do not arrive by late afternoon, but this will likely lead to worsening travel conditions such as sticky snow and/or breakable crust.  A pleasant backcountry experience is still possible with good terrain selection - look for shaded aspects unaffected by sun or wind that harbor soft snow, or use this last window of stability to travel high and enjoy the alpine views. 

A major shift in mindset will be required after today as a major winter storm approaches the forecast area. The outgoing high pressure ridge has heavily impacted the strength of the upper snowpack and widespread faceting has been observed on all aspects at upper elevations (these observations (1, 2) go into greater detail). In most locations faceted grains are sitting on top of or underneath a crust, and will result in poor snowpack structure once buried. While the avalanche danger will certainly rise over the weekend, uncertainty surrounding the timing and degree of loading remains, and backcountry users should be prepared to significantly widen their margins and avoid avalanche terrain throughout the coming storm. 

Observations:  Please send us your observations.  Observations such as these (3, 4) from the public are much appreciated! 

Eastern Oregon Backcountry Festival-Bid on the Online Auction Now!!!

Join us for the 13th Annual Eastern Oregon Backcountry Festival January 31-February 2nd. 

• Jan. 31: Ski Film and Pie Auction @HQ in La Grande.  Doors open 6:00 PM Adults $10, Kids $5.  Come watch the new Matchstick Film Calm Beneath Castles and bid on pies and other desserts.  If you would like to bring a dessert for the auction please arrive at 6:00 PM.  
• Feb. 1: Kip Rand Backcountry Race (Anthony Lakes) Race starts at 8 AM, show up at 7:45.  Companion Rescue Clinic 10 AM, Snow Pack Obs Clinic 1 PM.  Live music by Wanderlust 3:30 PM Main Lodge with raffle.  (You must show up 15 min early for clinics and race at EOBF tent on S. Side of Rental shop.)
• Feb 2: Tour with WAC Staff:  Ski tour into Angell Basin to better understand how to safely travel in avalanche terrain.  Please consider purchasing raffle tickets, bidding on an auction item, or donating $50 to the Wallowa Avalanche Center if you are planning to attend this tour.