Two Lakes

Our trio started the day with modest aspirations of some mellow laps on the Mint Bump. Our first obstacle of some missing gear was overcome with the use of tools and locally foraged materials. We observed a brittle crust on the snow surface on our ascent out of the Mint. With recent snowfall and relatively cool temps none of us really expected this but we persevered. We climbed higher hoping to ascend out of the rain line but it kept pace and remained evident well above 3000 ft. On the second kick turn after leaving the lower angled slopes of the basin we slinkied together and it was then we triggered the avalanche. A crescendo of collapses ricocheted up the slope, noticeably dropping the surface inches as it went. For a moment it appeared the slope might not slide but mere moments later we all began to move. "Here we go" was mentioned and we began to flail gear and position ourselves for the ride. The slab stayed somewhat intact and we all settled into it like a lazy river, tumbling over a few rapids of rocks and boulders as we were carried. Shortly after it started it was over and we took stock. Two of us were above the surface and able to extricate ourselves with relative ease. A quick scan revealed the third and we cleared snow and helped them get free. It was hectic. We spent the next hour or more looking for a lost ski with no success. Our party was able to return to the trailhead without assistance and debrief over discussions of latin escapades and near misses that sound more like genuine accidents. Jah Bless. Observed no red flags prior to triggering D2 avalanche.

Two Lakes

Quick report

Weather

Snowpack

Avalanche