Public Observation

Observation Details

Observations

Very enjoyable day of soft ski conditions on Esha Canyon and Esha Peak 2nd Chute. No new instability observed.

- Departed from the McGee Creek Pack Station around 7am, walking about 200 vertical feet before transitioning to skis.
- Morning conditions were firm, crusty, and in places icy, and ski crampons were quickly helpful. Lower canyon conditions were fairly ragged, with waning - though still complete - coverage and extensive debris. Another group that did not have ski crampons reported booting with boot crampons.
- Firm conditions continued until ~ 9,300 feet @ 8:30 when the sun began to climb over the canyon walls and soften the snow, though we were able to continue to move efficiently.
- Conditions continued to soften as we entered the flats below the peak at around 10,500ft
- Climbing toward the 2nd chute, snow was primarily fairy heavy, soft powder and didn't appear to be effected by recent wind or warm temperatures. Some sluffing was possible at points but appeared to be overall stable. Another group, seeking more solar influenced conditions, headed to the open west side of the face and seemed to enjoy it.
- Upon entering the chute, mostly powdery conditions continued with some icier and firmer spots.
- Descending around 11:00 was primarily still great powder conditions through the ski down to the flats below the peak where the snow transitions into softer corn.
- The entire return from ~10,500ft to 7,9000ft was beautiful corn and easy, fun continuous skiing.

Signs of Unstable Snow