Green Butte Summit

Today's objective was to assess snow conditions near and above treeline. It was a busy day on the south side of Mount Shasta. More than 60 cars filled Bunny Flat parking lot, including sledders, skiers, and sight seers. Skiers were visible on Casaval Ridge, Avalanche Gulch, Old Ski Bowl, and Green Butte. The warm daytime temperatures and cold nights has resulted in a widespread, firm surface crust on all observed aspects and elevations. Skiers found softer snow on slopes that picked up all day sun, or in areas with extreme sun protection. Below treeline, there was patch work of soft and firm snow, depending on how much sun and shade the slope experienced. Near and above treeline, the snow surface becomes far more variable. There is a combination of wind board, solar crust, and ice on all but the most shaded and protected areas. Sastrugi has developed on wind exposed ridges. 

The recent snow has really improved the overall snow coverage above treeline, allowing many south side zones to be safely skied. This snow has quickly consolidated into a supportable snowpack, with a firm crust on top, making it challenging to punch below the surface. Below treeline, where most of the recent moisture fell as rain, it's not looking so good. Travel with caution in these lower lying areas.