Presidential Range

Warm temperatures yesterday followed by rain showers, then freezing rain and sleet followed by a centimeter of rimed snow have left little chance for avalanche activity today. You’re much more likely to find crampons and an ice axe useful for a descent than skis due to this refrozen snowpack, which exists on all aspects above 3,000’. Broken clouds and warmer temperatures late this afternoon may provide a window for softer conditions but high winds will work against warming. Generally safe avalanche conditions exist today. Avalanche danger is LOW.

The summer Lionhead Trail is open but the traverse at treeline is steep and can be icy. Bring crampons and an ice axe.

A centimeter of graupel fell at Hermit Lake with a trace reported at Gray Knob snow plot. Given the refrozen snowpack, you’re likely to find better cramponing than skiing anywhere in the range today. Even the pockets of loose unconsolidated graupel aren’t going to improve the skiing experience today. Tomorrow will bring warmer temperatures and lower wind speeds with some sunshine, which may improve conditions for skiing but will certainly be more hospitable for hiking. Due to our role as rescuers, in addition to avalanche forecasters, we are keenly aware of the fact that long, sliding falls have injured and killed more people than avalanches in the 106 square mile Presidential Range forecast area. As diurnal temperatures swing across the freezing point this spring, be sure to have alternate plans that consider rapid changes in snow conditions in steep terrain. This weekend, skilled skiers struggled with heavy, wet snow conditions with more than the usual number of falls. (Fortunately, only one injury required a litter to evacuate the patient.) Small variations in air temperature, cloud cover, snow temperature and wind can shift the outcome of a ski day with a startling effect. It’s useful to keep in mind that melted out trails now require the litter to be carried by hand. This is a slow process which can require 10-20 people to accomplish so plan to be an active participant in your rescue. Ski conservatively in the backcountry and consider the consequences of exceeding your abilities or leading people into a situation for which they are unprepared.  

The typical spring hazards emerged in recent weeks and should factor into your travel plans. New snow may bridge over some of the hazards which include: 

• Moats and other deep melt holes 
• Waterfall holes 
• Open streams and undermined snow 
• Glide cracks 
• Falling ice and rock

Regulations on Federal public lands supersede state mandates regarding protection from the coronavirus and it’s variants. These regulations require the use of a face mask when social distancing is not possible. Please plan to wear a mask in busy areas like the deck and courtyard at Hermit Lake and the floor of Tuckerman Ravine on a busy day.

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Your avalanche, snowpack, or weather observations are extremely valuable to the forecasters at MWAC. Help create a more accurate avalanche forecast by submitting your observations here. 

The Harvard Cabin is now closed for the season. There is no access to the breezeway at HoJos.

Please Remember:

• Safe travel in avalanche terrain requires training and experience. This forecast is just one tool to help you make your own decisions in avalanche terrain. You control your own risk by choosing where, when, and how you travel.
• Avalanche danger may change when actual weather differs from the higher summits forecast.

For more information contact the US Forest Service Snow Rangers, AMC visitor services staff at the Pinkham Notch Visitor Center, or the caretakers at Hermit Lake Shelters or seasonally at the Harvard Cabin (generally December 1 through March 31). The Mount Washington Ski Patrol is also available on spring weekends.