Professional Observation

Observation Details

Signs of Unstable Snow

Snow Stability

Bottom Line

Today we toured between 4800 and 8800 feet to Gash Point. There was very little snow below 6000 feet. Above 6000ft, we encountered a variety of wind-formed formations like breakable crusts, exposed ice, and sastrugi. Protected north-facing areas held good spring powder skiing all day.
From the summit of Gash Point, we spotted avalanche debris in most major slide paths. These were most likely from the last 48 hours. The majority were D1 in size with one notable D2 slab avalanche south of Sky Pilot.
Other observations made:
• We experienced at least two collapses on the way to Gash Point above 7000 feet
• Several open glide cracks near Sky Pilot
• Cornices as large as school buses are beginning to droop but have not yet fallen off, presenting a looming danger
• Lots of spatial variability in the top of the snowpack due to high winds on 4/5