Lassen Peak

Quick report

Solid overnight refreeze with firm snow throughout the morning approach. The more eastern aspects on the north face/ridge began softening after 9 AM. By 11 AM at 9,200' we transitioned to bootpack; snow was soft but supportable and made for easy crampon travel. No signs of wet loose instability were observed on the ascent on any aspect. Skied off the summit down the central NE face. The upper 400–600' featured gently refrozen penitente-like structures, variable but decent skiing. Below 9,700' we found excellent corn, with ENE aspects skiing slightly better than true NE; north-facing terrain remained firm. Great corn continued to around 7,500'. Exit snow was better than expected (not overly heavy) and made for easy travel back to the trailhead. No wet loose activity or other signs of instability observed on the descent, even on east-facing terrain. Weather was sunny with light clouds developing after 11 AM, minimal wind throughout. Trailhead temp was 37°F at 6:45 AM.