Professional Observation

Observation Details

Signs of Unstable Snow

Snow Stability

Key Points

Toured up to the top of the Wheeler Crest today via Witcher Canyon from 6700′ to 11,700′.

Snowpack in this zone is thin. 40-60cm HS average. Probing and hand pits along the ascent revealed an absence of any meaningful midpack that is bridging over the basal facets as is the case in many other areas. Here near surface facets are sitting right on top of the basal facets making for a very shallow feeling ski. Closer to the ridgeline at 11,400′ stiffer wind affected surface snow could be found, and steep entrances into the canyon which have thin and rocky start zones leading into thicker gully features looked to be locations where isolated slabs may be more easily triggered.

Variable was the name of the game today, while some panels held smooth and enjoyable facet skiing, much of the canyon had seen recent winds so breakable wind board and shallow coverage made us earn the good turns.