Avalanche forecast

Mount Shasta

Mount Shasta Avalanche Center
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Avalanche danger

Fri
Alpine
1 · Low
Treeline
1 · Low
Below
1 · Low
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Out of date — this forecast expired 7 months ago. You’re viewing past conditions, not the current bulletin.

Highlights

Backcountry avalanche hazard remains low and unlikely. Mountaineering watch-outs continue:

  • Rime ice is still plastered to exposed rocks on the upper mountain and will continue to provide for overhead hazard
  • Smooth, firm snow allowing for slide-for-life potential on steep slopes. An ice axe, 12-point crampons and helmet are essential. Know how to use them
  • Chilly temps up high with wind chill factor
  • Rough and variable snow surfaces providing challenging ski conditions

Avalanche Discussion

You couldn't buy an avalanche out there, and it might be safe to say we are entering into a desperate phase. Just like what your dog says when it wants a treat, it's a little rrruff out there. Funnies aside, snow on the ground near treeline on Mount Shasta measures 66 inches. Current temperature is 39 degrees on the mountain. In town, 38 degrees. There is still enough snow for backcountry recreation on Mount Shasta, but it's a smorgasbord of surface conditions: crust, wind buff, dry, moist, corn. Surfaces can change abruptly, so use caution. It's the yin and the yang; black and white...without the bad, we wouldn't know the good. Tough times never last, but people do! Stay strong, gang.  

On the west side, Eddy Mountains, Castle Lake area...there is much to be desired. I'll let the photos and words from yesterday's observation do the talking (click here). For snowmobiling, Pilgrim Creek Sno-Park is more or less out of service. Deer Mountain is the best bet right now. Four Corners out of Macdoel also has snow all the way to the parking area. Snowmobiling on Mount Shasta in the Old Ski Bowl is possible via Bunny Flat. As always, know your riding boundaries. Please be mindful of Wilderness, and Ski Park boundaries. One bad egg makes all the others stink. MAP HERE

Good weather always lures climbers onto the mountain. Climbing conditions have been good, but know that a winter climb is different from a spring climb. In short, the mountain has more teeth in the winter: The days are shorter, weather more extreme, snow surfaces firmer, ice and avalanche hazard, et cetera. We never want to discourage a grand adventure. We do want to make sure you are prepared for nature's elements. One of the greatest skills to have in the backcountry is flexibility and a humble attitude. Have the courage to turn around if things don't feel right. If planning your trip feels uncertain, give us a call, and we're happy to talk it through. Ensuring a safe and positive experience is our top priority!

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