Gold Creek Snowmobile Area/ Keechelus Ridge

Two things stood out to us today in the Keechelus Ridge area. 1. A rock solid crust really limited the potential for any avalanches. 2. Coverage is grim! The general lack of tracks is a telltale sign that riding conditions are tough. Leaving the road wasn't much of an option in most locations. The combination of the firm, irregular surface and the numerous obstacles made for challenging riding. 

None noticed

A nearly foot thick burly crust had the snowpack generally locked up today. This stout layer was fully snowmobile supportable. The surface softened slightly in the warm temperatures, but not more than a 1/2 inch or so. Generally, the snow remained firm, irregular, and unforgiving. 

Below the surface crust, the snowpack is still relatively wet. This wasn't much of a concern given the protective overlying layer. 

The biggest note from today was the coverage. Lower elevations and southerly aspects have been thin all year, but now bare ground is becoming more common even on shaded aspects. There are so many obstacles! Stumps, trees, logs, creeks, rocks, holes.... Without a doubt, the lack of snow coverage and the challenging travel were the greatest risks of the day.