Observation: Public

Observation Details

Signs of Unstable Snow

Observations

Not real instabilities seen yesterday when heading up to Florence Peak and traversing over to Sweet Peak.
There was an extremely stout (pencil+ hard) crust on all sun exposed aspects with near zero boot penetration without traction and minimal traction with technical crampons. My hiking buddy and I were doing more aggressive things than I would generally do with moderate conditions.
Snow level was around 3.4k' and was icy throughout the day on trail. Off-trail we were getting just enough purchase to scuff step up steep angled slopes; on-trail is was doable, but got extremely difficult on steeper (30°+) slopes.
Crampons were definitely needed to cross the waterfalls down lower and were definitely needed. Snowshoes got a free ride.
Snow coverage was minimal in areas along W and S aspects (a fair bit of shallow snow and some light wind scouring). It seemed that the snow was blown into leeward areas on the N and E side of ridges.