Observation: Public

Observation Details

Signs of Unstable Snow

Observations

Crust on dust? Went up the hidden lake lookout area via summer trail. Firm conditions in general. There are two firm sun facets/layers each an inch or two thick on top of lighter chalky snow. This made for difficult skiing on aspects that got some but not direct sun as you would break through the crust and catch an edge. Shaded and northern aspects were firm and you were unable to break through the crust. On southern aspects, corn skiing was good. There was evidence of wet loose and glide avalanches on steeper southern sun affected slopes (roller balls, bare hill faces, difficult edging on steeper slopes because the top layer would slide but not propagate). Ski crampons were necessary and those without had to boot when it was too firm/steep.