Quick report
On a hike up the Ammonoosuc Ravine Trail with the goal of trying out new gear and practicing snow observations. I did a few hand sheer tests between 4300-4400’, all NW aspect, with results ranging from stubborn 15 cm slabs with planar fracture, to less stubborn 30 cm slabs breaking with planar fractures. A layer of graupel was seen on the surface of the snow pack at 4700’. I performed an ECT here and had a 10 cm down fracture initiate but not propagate on tap 4. Very small cracks were shooting out from my boot at this point as well. I turned around at this point due to lack of visibility and concern of the snow and wind filling in my tracks behind me, which it had in places in about 30 minutes. All in all, a good snowy day where I got to practice and use new gear (other than my revamped first aid kit, but I suppose that’s for the best.)