Field Observation Summary
Plan:
The initial objective was to ski Whales Back. While traveling along Evening Ridge, we observed shooting cracks, indicating potential slab instability. Based on these red flags, the group reassessed the plan and chose a lower-consequence east-facing treed slope for skiing instead.
Test Location:
Aspect: East
Slope angle: 32°
Elevation: ~1950 m
Terrain: Open test area within treed slope
HS (Height of Snowpack): 258 cm
Multiple Compression Test (snow stability test) were performed.
Compression Test Results
CTE 3
Failure at 15 cm
Interface: Buried surface hoar within storm snow
Character: Easy failure, indicating high sensitivity in the recent storm slab.
CTM 12
Failure at 40 cm
Interface: February 15 crust
Suggests a developing slab over the crust layer.
CTM 14
Failure at 102cm
Interface: January 28 crust
Sudden planar
Terrain Decision
Given the instability indicators and test results, the group chose to avoid committing alpine terrain (Whales Back) and instead skied a lower-angle, treed east-facing slope to reduce avalanche exposure.