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Missoula Avalanche

Professional Observation

Basic Information

Observation Details

Observation Date:
March 30, 2022
Submitted:
March 31, 2022
Observer:
WCMAC - Trask Baughman
Zone or Region:
Southern Bitterroots
Location:
East Camas Peak

Signs of Unstable Snow

Recent Avalanches? 
None Observed
Cracking? 
Isolated
Collapsing? 
None Experienced

Snow Stability

Stability Rating: 
Very Good
Confidence in Rating: 
High
Stability Trend: 
Steady

Bottom Line

Today we toured in the southern Bitterroots to east Camas Peak. We hiked from 5000ft to 6000ft in light hiking boots due to little or no snow. From 6000ft, we could skin up the canyon on a supportable crust that remained firm throughout the day.
As we ascended East Camas peak, we found 4 inches of new snow from 3/29 at 8000ft. On east-facing slopes, there were small isolated wind-loaded pockets. The max depth found was 1 foot deep. I was able to pull out a small thin slab 2-4 inches deep and 10x10 ft wide when skiing across the slope below the ridge top.
We found general spring hazards like melted-out pits around boulders, open creek crossings, variable breakable crust below 6500-7000ft, and icy terrain above 8000ft. There is still lots of good skiing in the bitterroots above 6000ft, but it is melting out fast.


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Weather Summary

Cloud Cover:
Overcast
Wind:
Light , W
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