Observation: Public

Observation Details

Signs of Unstable Snow

Observations

Skied via Source Lake to Snow Lake divide then around the corner to the 'moonlands' above the Cache Couloir and up to the Chair Peak notch. Descended from Chair Peak notch past Thumbtack and back to Source Lake. There is 3-5" of new snow. At lower elevations and in protected areas, the snow is distributed consistently. At higher elevations and near the ridges, there is significant wind transport with areas of bare crust and areas of deep deposition (up to 12+ inches deep) forming isolated slab potential. Lee aspects seemed to be generally north and east. Snow on solar aspects was very enjoyable with soft snow on top smoothing out much of the texture, and a soft, carvable crust below. Shady aspects had a firm crust below the new snow. Snow seems to be bonding well to the existing crust. See photos of Chair and especially Rainier to see significant wind transport underway.