Public Observation

Observation Details

Observations

Sunny and calm conditions today temps in the mid 30's F.
We started from the propane tanks with firm conditions but as elevation increased we saw mostly faceted snow on N/NE aspects. Some of those more exposed aspects were a little firmer, we tried to stay in the trees to avoid sun and wind exposure. Found some surface hoar in N facing drainage on the approach before heading up the "nose"
Skinning to start wasn't horrible but it had it's challenges as we progressed and we did use ski/split crampons for the top part of the "nose". Snow was also shallower than expected in spots (please come back winter!) and this created obstacles including skinning over rocks and trees.
Overall observations:
Dug a pit for educational purposes and found what we expected: right side up facets throughout snowpack.
Decent variable snow, sun and wind effected patches, very stable snow although we did see some bouncing facets on steep slopes during decent. Staying on N/NE aspects we were finding the best snow, although, again patchy and best snow was above 8000ft.
A few risk factors on decent were the super solid, end of day, lower exposed crusty mccrust-crust run out, combined with dodging dog poop. Remember folks, there is no poop fairy.

Overall a good day. But we could use a little more winter out there.

Signs of Unstable Snow