Dorothy Mountain - Whitefish Range - WMR sidecountry

Quick report

We observed what we perceived to be surprisingly warm conditions at 6800 feet partly due to the intensity of the solar radiation. Clear skies and minimal cloud coverage. Trees were dripping water at 6800 feet after 12pm. The 6-8in of recent snow on north-facing slopes remained moderately light while snow on East and South facing slopes was heavy and wet. Southern Facing slopes which were picking up solar radiation displayed micro wet loose movement similiar to dry loose sluff when skiied. 6-8 inches above crust was heavy and showed a desire to clump and form rollerballs. We were expecting to manage dry loose sluff but were surprised to find ourselves concerned about wet loose.

Weather

Air Temp

32+

Cloud Cover

clear

Wind Loading

light

Snow Avail For Transport

none

Very warm in the sun, cooler in the shade. Clear skies in upper elevations with low ceiling. .

Snowpack

We were unable to complete pit test as hoped in order to safely descend the slope before it warmed excessively. 6-8inches of moderate to heavy snow ontop of crust. Crust was supportable for touring and skiing.