Cornice Ridge Positive Crust

<p>Went to check out Cornice Ridge. I was surprised by how thick and supportive the crust was. The most recent warm spell followed by the cold temperatures has laid down a 10cm thick crust. This crust is hard enough it was very hard to penetrate with my ski boots or shovel. Infact a couple from Creston walked up to the summit of Cornice Ridge wearing only light hiking boots. I don't recommend doing this but they told me they didn't even break through the crust once. Of note is the fact that the converse has greatly improved. The crust is covering most rocks. I think of we get a bit of snow the skiing and riding will be decent. There is not much snow below 1800m. Elsewhere we have 90-110cm. I only made it to 2050m but suspect there is more snow at higher elevations. I avoided steep slopes as a fall of any kind would have resulted in a serious slide. ? Be patient and things will improve. Monitor the new snows bond to the crust.? Also of note in the photos is someone who was casually throwing their orange peels on the ground. Let's all do our part and not pollute. ?</p>

Terrain Ridden

Mellow slopes, Open trees.

Terrain Avoided

Steep slopes.

Snow Conditions

Crusty, Hard.

Weather Conditions

Cloudy.