Observation: Public

Observation Details

Signs of Unstable Snow

Observations

Variable ski conditions defined the day as we traveled in Crystal Lakes and Morse Creek.

Solar aspects held 1" of recent snow over a very firm crust. Overcast conditions prevented wet loose avalanches from becoming a problem, although we did see roller ball action during brief sun breaks.

Polar aspects held 1-3" of recent snow over a more variable crust. This crust was at times firm and boot supportable, and in other places thin, rotten, and breakable under skis. I did not find significant faceting around the 1/12 crust in the areas we traveled in.

Overall the biggest hazard of the day was still slide-for-life skinning conditions and an abundance of prominent avalanche debris from 1/12. Despite this rosy conditions report, views were pleasant, the weather was nice, and company was good.