Mount Shasta

Generally safe avalanche conditions exist throughout the advisory area. Use caution around old wind deposits among Mount Shasta’s alpine terrain and where snow surfaces are softening on steep, sun-exposed aspects. If climbing, be prepared for variable snow surfaces, weather, and overhead hazards.

General caution is advised. Mount Shasta and the surrounding mountains contain a patchwork of snow conditions and surface types. As a result, wind slab and wet loose instabilities are isolated and stubborn. While avalanche activity is unlikely, it is not impossible. Continue to observe and evaluate snow and terrain as you travel.

Evidence of softening snow has primarily been observed on steep, sun exposed aspects—specifically, slopes over 40 degrees near rock or cliff features. Use extra caution in these areas and consider avoiding terrain exhibiting signs of wet snow. It’s uncertain how long the warming trend will take to destabilize these portions of the snowpack. Stay alert for signs of instabilities like rollerballs and point releases in correspondence with time of day and aspect. Keep in mind both micro and macro terrain. And remember that even a small amount of wet, unstable snow could prove consequential in the wrong spot. 

It's been over four days since winds have redistributed snow. The most likely areas to encounter reactive wind drifts will be in steep, rocky pockets among Mount Shasta’s major alpine terrain features. The size of drift is expected to be small (<D1). Cornices and wind-sculpted snow indicate areas of past wind activity. Assess for cracking in pillowy, wind-textured snow while riding or climbing, and be ready to adjust plans or avoid these areas if necessary.

Climbing remains possible but is the real deal! Despite sunny weather, winter conditions significantly increase the level of risk. Even minor incidents can become life-threatening without adequate preparation. Remain vigilant for falling rime ice. Major alpine rock features—including the West Face, Casaval Ridge, Trinity Chutes, Red Banks, Green Butte Ridge, and Sargents Ridge—are coated in thick, hard ice that could shed at any time. Minimize your exposure beneath these features and wear a helmet. A full mountaineering kit is advised: 12-point crampons (NOT microspikes), ice axe, and helmet, and the skills to use them proficiently.A $25 Summit Pass is available at the Mount Shasta Ranger Station or for purchase by cash or card at Bunny Flat.

Snow depths:

• Old Ski Bowl: 6+ feet 
• The Eddy Mountains: 2.5-3 feet
• Ash Creek Butte area: 4.5 feet

Snow surfaces are a highly variable and sometimes hazardous patchwork of crusts (oftentimes breakable), wind-affected snow, and, if you're lucky, dry snow. Snow sleuths have reported some good areas for skiing and riding. 

Check out our observations page for more details on recent conditions from around the forecast area, including  Ash Creek Butte, Gray Butte, Castle Lake, and the Old Ski Bowl. 

Bunny Flat remains the best access for winter recreation and climbing.  All motorized users, please park below the restroom facility at Bunny Flat. Respect riding boundaries. Maps are available HERE or at the trailhead.