Temptations

No significant signs of instability. Due to snow and clouds, there were no great views of starting zones in upper temptations. Based on recent snowfall, the poor upper snowpack structure, and ECT results, our route (above/near treeline) felt like moderate danger today. Very limited cracking, no collapsing, and single instability test (ECT) results were encouraging. Nonetheless, with all this new snow over the last 4 days, we took a fairly conservative route overall. Near the ridge up to Rustler, there was some blowing snow above treeline. But in general,  very little moving snow (saltation) on our route today. 

Snow in Temptations had an upside-down feel, causing more than desired penetration at the snowboard turn apex. You can see that in the snowpit structure. The snow in Dutchman was fantastic and did not feel upside down underfoot at 10500'. 

This was a very small slice of the mountain we saw this afternoon. Based on yesterday's (Sunday, March 17) observations, I would not be surprised if there are still more reactive slabs out there.