Public Observation

Observation Details

Observations

Toured up to the Morrison Col today via Tobacco Flat. The top was noticeably steeper than usual, with a pitch in the low to mid 40's (according to the BCA app measurement tools) for the first few turns. E-SE-S facing snow is heavily textured, though areas with direct sunlight began to soften around 10-10:30 AM. Lower down the approach, some faceted snow and breakable crusts were observed, especially in and around brushy areas. Ski crampons are mandatory for the final 800-1000 feet of the ascent. The Col itself is predictably firm, and navigating the lower moraine requires some bush-wacking and talus hopping, but numerous snow fingers leading down to Convict Lake exist. The lake is partially frozen, and traversing above it proved to be tough given the firm nature of the snow on route.

Signs of Unstable Snow