Quick report
Went to Stevens Peak, following the fire road to an elevation of 8,500 ft. Conditions were calm and cloudy, with temperatures in the mid-40s. Along the way, we observed near-surface facets on E aspects and a crust on SE and S aspects. We tested for wet loose conditions by throwing snowballs down steep slopes and observed no reaction. We dug a snow pit on an E aspect near treeline, a few hundred feet below the ridge. The ridgeline had a minor cornice and a crown from an old wind slab. The snowpack was 180 cm deep, with the early January rain crust measured at 78 cm. The snowpack was right-side-up, and column tests showed no signs of instability. Conditions were excellent for most of the descent on NE and E aspects. Snow became very sticky and shallow near the end. These observations are part of an LTCC AIARE 2 course.