Summit Area

<p>Test profile low on NE aspect of Feather Peak (1050m, facing the highway). Compression test revealed very weak layer underneath the recent wind slab (down 27cm). We got easy compression test results (CTE1 and CTE3) with sudden collapse (drop). Thin feathery grains that looked like decomposing surface hoar. Lots of spatial variability as expected, but everything is wind affected to a degree in exposed areas. The wind slabs were bridging fairly well and ski penetration was usually less than 10cm. Mild whumpfing on localized features. Hollow sounding snowpack in many areas. No other obvious signs of instability observed. The terrain is sculpted by the wind in a way that’s a bit different from what I have observed in previous years. Watch for areas of creeks, gullies, etc. that might be expected to be snow covered at this time of year. Clear sky with light to moderate winds from the North. Temps were around -16 most of the day. Moderate blowing snow was observed off some mountain tops in the morning in the summit area. We skied around the summit area and towards international falls. Snow depth usually varied between 140-200cm. </p>

Terrain Ridden

Alpine slopes, Mellow slopes.

Terrain Avoided

Steep slopes, Convex slopes.

Avalanche Conditions

30cm + of new snow, or significant drifting, or rain in the last 48 hours.

Whumpfing or drum-like sounds or shooting cracks.

Snow Conditions

Wind affected.