Stevens Pass

For Monday, you can expect partly cloudy skies and moderate temperature inversions, with avalanches very unlikely. Firm, slick snow surfaces may be the biggest hazard and challenge to traveling in the backcountry. Bring equipment to prevent an uncontrolled fall on firm snow. 

Monday will feature similar conditions to the weekend, with the main difference being increasing clouds. This will likely limit any daytime softening of snow surfaces. While avalanches aren't a concern, you'll want to be prepared for slick snow surfaces. For human-powered travel, it's a good idea to carry crampons (for skis and/or boots) and a self-arrest tool.

Open slopes will likely have smoother surfaces. Some observers have found softening "corn" on southerly aspects. At middle elevations, these slopes have depths of around 2-3 feet, with occasional bare patches. You can expect deeper coverage on the north half of the compass. Shaded east, north, and west aspects are staying cold and have softened slightly due to surface faceting. Though you won't find "recycled powder," the surface crust is beginning to get softer. Under the tree canopy, you can expect the most bumpy, variable conditions. Icy chunks and rough surfaces will be more akin to a frozen coral reef. Below 5,000ft there are plenty of open holes, creeks, and exposed rocks on all aspects.

As we lead up to our next storm (fingers crossed), pay attention to any potential weak surfaces that could get buried. On the 25th, Stevens Pass Ski Patrol reported surface facets on shaded slopes that have grown up to 3mm in size. You may find surface hoar in valley bottoms or around creeks, but we haven't received reports of it being widespread in mountain terrain.