Public Observation

Observation Details

Signs of Unstable Snow

Observations

Toured from lower parking to the south bowl of Gash Point. Lots of kind folks out there-thanks for putting in a good safe skin track and helping to get cars unstuck!

Snowpack: did not observe any red flags while touring, about 3-5 inches of new snow last 24hrs. Dug at 8300’ on a NE slope targeting a recently described near surface facet layer that was reactive a few days ago. Our CT had medium sudden planar results down 30cm and 50cm but we were not able to get these to propagate in our ECT. However we were not convinced this layer wasn’t a concern and did a rough rutschblock test with one of our party touring above the pit and dropping onto their heels. This layer propagated the full length of the pit and with continued pressure slid on a planar surface. These results, while hard to quantify, were enough to keep us off of steep, unsupported slopes. The slab above this layer was fist to 1 finger hard and 50cm deep- a decent chunk of snow if it were to slide. We chose to ski low angle slopes.

Weather: AM started cold and light snowfall with clouds in and out. Light winds throughout the day with the occasional cold wind from the north and east. PM had broken skies and temps cooled off significantly towards 4pm. We did not see much wind transport of snow, although there were wind lips and drifts from recent winds.

The road into the lower trailhead is getting a little sporty. Bring friends and shovels to help make it in!