Quick report
The approach ridge for Loveland basin was wind scoured down to the 12/10 rain crust. Once inside the basin there was a really thin rime/temp crust at the surface. Pit results at 4400' on a east aspect produced ECTN5 down 10cms beneath a wind stiffened layer and ECTN29 down 40 cms on 12/22 BSH. This layer was deformed and mixed with other snow grains in this location. 12/10-12/5 rain crust sandwich was not present. November wind damged layer was down 100cms was 20 cms thick and knife + hard, HS was 245cms.
Found wind slab on the south face of Tones that increased in distribution and depth with elevation. Turned around at 5500' due to wind slab. Pit results at 5400' produced ECTN19 down 40 cms on a temp/rime crust and Q1 shear.
Fresh surface hoar was widespread with 2-4 mm average and some grains to 1 cm. SH existed all the way up to the summit of Loveland Peak.
Weather
- Cloud Cover
- clear
- Wind Loading
- previous
- Snow Avail For Transport
- moderate amounts
-20 at the road 20 above on ridgetops. Calm and clear
Avalanche
A moderate amount of D1-2 natural activity was observed on the south slopes of Tones. Activity appeared to be a few days old.