MCR Observation

Mountain Conditions Report

<p>We had good skiing between 2080 and 2400 metres on the SW slopes of Observation Peak today on 20 cm of light new snow. Careful route selection helped keep us on 25 degree slopes and away from overhead hazards. Stability tests produced easy clean sheers down 40 and 55 cm in the upper snowpack. The lower pack is comprised of facets and depth hoar with no strength, several large whumpfs kept our attention on managing the risk. At 2:30 a size three avalanche ran full path across and down the valley on Mt Patterson. Also noted a new size 2 avalanche on the lower slopes below the Big Daddy Couloir on Bow Peak (see photo). Lots of snowballs rolling down the S and W aspects on the drive back to Lake Louise showing those slopes are being cooked. The snowpack is touchy and even though it looks enticing, it is unforgiving right now. Play safe.</p> <p>Cyril &amp; Ken Wylie with the ACC TNF crew: Sarah, Marion, Heather, Mark, Michael, Steve, Matt, Clarke, Tyler, Lukas</p>