Coal Creek Opener!

Our first venture up from coal creek staging today!! The Fernie Snowmobile Association has done an exceptional job clearing downed trees and putting in the best grooming they can for the current conditions down low. Snow coverage is still low below 1500m, creeks are still open, but the access into your favourite zones is open! The day started out pleasant, mild temps at treeline, and even a bit of sunshine! Large cornices exist at ridge tops, and we avoided wind loaded areas in the treeline and alpine. Snow started falling around 2pm and we became very soggy very fast and headed back to the truck! We found an average snow depth of 140 cm. 60 cm of well settled snow sits above a firm crust extending all the way to ground. The snow is bonded very well to the crust in this area. We had resistant failures on hand shears within the top 60 cm, no propagating results. Overall we were impressed with the riding conditions above 1500m! Enjoy the holiday playtime, and be sure to submit your own MIN report if you are out recreating during the holidays!