Observation Date: 12/10/2016

Route/Location:
Up to Pt. Six and out east ridge towards Totality/2-Steep to feel things out. Skied back down Pt Six south ridge.

Paradise is now operational…skin wisely.

http://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/lolo/recreation/wintersports/recarea/?recid=80298&actid=89

Weather:
Hard from West w/ significant transport. Snowing 1 in/hr with gusts to 40 mph. 8-10″, 8% new snow.

Wind:
Moderate 10-20 mph from the WSW with gusts to 40 mph. Lots of new snow actively transporting.

New Snow: 6-12″

Avalanche Activity:
Cracking with localized collapses. Poor visibility, no natural activity observed.

Other Comments:
Rather hollow snowpack with moderate new load. Boot penetration to waist, ski penetration over the knee. I’m going to give this pack another week or so to load and settle before committing to avalanche terrain…patience seems prudent.

Observer: Schmalenberg Jeff