Lake Helen

Heavy weathering across Mount Shasta has left a patchwork of surface textures and snow conditions among the alpine. It’s fair to say the mountain is a little haggard, and travel is not straightforward. No signs of unstable snow were observed, with low concern for avalanche danger. The largest hazards travelers face are uncontrollable falls in steep terrain, harsh wind speeds, and the variable nature of snow and surface conditions. Come prepared with foot traction, a helmet, and self-arrest tools if inclined to be on slopes over 35 degrees above 9,000 feet. 

The majority of surfaces are comprised of hard, wind-packed, or scoured snow, with icy patches mixed in. Smooth surfaces were not observed. Large wind ripples exist across many alpine faces and moraines. On ridgelines, the rims of bowls, and the bases of rock outcrops, wind-sculpted snow and sastrugi features were present.

In depression points, like gullies and bowls, softer snow can be found. However, this snow type is incongruent across the terrain.

At roughly mid-day, southerly aspects near and below the treeline were beginning to soften.