Didn't observe much avalanche hazard today as I toured out of Paradise. In areas where there was enough snow to get an edge in, there wasn't really enough to drive a hazard. The biggest challenge was travel conditions as slopes are firm and it felt like spring touring out there. Brought my whippet and ski crampons and was glad to have them. The main difference between now and spring touring is that the snow never really softened up, particularly at upper elevations. In many areas, the wind has stripped the snow away down to the crust, creating the firmest conditions found today. Pockets of previously wind distributed softer snow were intertwined to these icy areas. As I descended into Edith Creek around 2:00, more snow was found in areas protected from the wind and the snow was soft enough to get an edge in and make some fun turns.
Be prepared for firm conditions and bring traction and self arrest tools.