Mount Shasta

It is unlikely that you'll trigger or witness any avalanches today.  A Cold Weather Advisory is in effect with moderate to strong easterly wind expected above the treeline.  Anticipate bittely cold temperatures and widespread firm, icy snow surfaces. Carry crampons and an ice axe if you'll be on steep slopes as a long sliding fall could injure or kill.

The avalanche danger is LOW but our stoke is high after yesterday's Ascension Race and Snowball. A big thank you to our entire backcountry community for being a part of it and for supporting the avalanche center.  That being said, here are some mountain hazards that pose serious risk:

•  Firm surfaces: By far, the greatest hazard to climbers and skiers is the abundant icy surfaces across the forecast area. Even on small knolls, there is a risk of losing footing, and taking an uncontrolled fall into trees/rocks/ice. Extreme caution must be taken while traveling on steep slopes, especially above 8,000 feet. If you're headed into upper elevation terrain, remember to bring a helmet, ice axe, and crampons.
• Ice fall & Rock fall: As of recent, field reports continue to remind us of the constant ice and rock falling from the upper mountain. Rock bands (such as the Red Banks, Casaval Ridge, Trinity Chutes, Green Butte Ridge) are still shedding their icy covers, bringing rock down with it, in sizes ranging from marble, to golf ball, to soft ball.
• Cold temperatures: Wind chill values are expected to drop significantly today into tonight. Hypothermia and frost bite are serious, and must be considered in your travels. Bring extra supplies (layers, jackets, gloves, face protection) if you think you'll be exposed for long periods of time, such as attempting a climb on Mount Shasta.

Climbing Conditions: Good for experienced climbers, but slide-for-life risk is extreme. This weekend, with the expected cold temperatures and strengthening wind, climbing will become particularly challenging and dangerous. For more information, read the climbing advisory HERE. 

Winter Recreation Access: Everitt Memorial Highway is open to Bunny Flat. Castle Lake road is plowed to Methodist Camp, though the gate is closed near 4,200 feet. Bike and hike access welcome beyond the gate.

Pilgrim Creek Snowmobile Park is open, trails groomed. Deer Mountain Snowmobile Park is open, but plowed past warming hut to Pomeroy Creek due to logging. Read the full Tri-Forest Grooming Report here.