Observation: Cutler Ridge

A slight inversion kept things cool at the trailhead. Once onto Cutler's Ridge the sun was in full effect, but didn't see any signs of significant warming on the southern aspects. Skies were clear and wind was negligible. Travelled to Dead Tree today and found varying snow conditions. Good riding condition could be found on the NE thru SE slopes below 7600'. Wind affect was present starting around 7200' and only created more robust wind crusts the higher you went. No obvious signs of instability other than a recent (yesterday?) avalanche on a steep eastern facing slope on the Ben Lomond headwall.

Photo 1 Ben Lomond

Photo 2 Crown and flank of avalanche can be seen on the far right of image

Photo 3 Headwall

Photo 4 Willard Peak

Photo 5 Looking south, significant wind scouring towards the ridge

Photo 6 Evidence of soft wind slab forming above 7600'

Photo 7 Steep north face slope with evidence of wind loading about 7500'