Stoney Ridge

Fortunately, the E / NE winds decreased some today, and we did not see any new blowing or drifting snow. Still, these winds have left their mark. Exposed areas near ridges have a mix of scoured surfaces, firm wind-packed snow, icy crusts, and wind-carved features. Some open areas below the ridges also have wind-affected snow surfaces.

The winds did not ravage more sheltered areas below treeline terrain as much, and north-facing slopes in this terrain still hold soft, consistent snow. On the other side of the compass, the sunny southerly facing slopes had a thin crust on their surface up to at least 8200 ft. 

The soft snow on shady slopes and just below the crusts feels dry and unconsolidated. It is losing its ability to clump together or stick to the rain crusts below it (faceting). This weak near-surface snow does not represent a problem right now but may in the future.