Quick report
Our avalanched class used hand shear tests, test slopes, and probing with ski poles to monitor the changing conditions between the trailhead and lower Hillman’s Highway. The rain crust created yesterday afternoon (1/13) was evident below 4000’, but not above. We also practiced snow pit observations at the edge of the clearing created below Hillman’s/Dodge’s Drop by a 2015 avalanche. We found fractures but no propagation during extended column tests. The fractures occurred 25cm down, a few cm above the Jan. 10 rain crust, during moderate taps from the elbow. Avalanche debris has begun to cover the boulders in the lower reaches of Hillman’s, making for an enjoyable, short ski descent. The snow this week has lifted this mountain guide from the depths of despair, renewing his hope that there is good in this world. Dry loose avalanches were observed on extremely steep slopes above the Lower Snowfields.
Snowpack
The snowpack was in line with today’s avalanche forecast.
Avalanche
- Size
- D1
- Type
- L
- Aspect
- NE
- Trigger
- N
- Elevation
- 4200 ft
Loose dry avalanches were seen around the rock outcroppings above and to the left of the lower snowfields.