Skied the East Couloir of Kessler Peak at sunrise. On the way up there was a very pronounced crust underneath the storm snow on steeper aspects. We were also aware that the wind had been blowing westerly the previous day and overnight, meaning the east facing couloir was most likely wind loaded to some extent, however, winds were light to non-existent the entire ridge up to the summit and including the summit. And peering into the couloir, it was apparent that various parts of it had slid during the storm the following day. We determined that wind slabs existed, but we deemed them manageable in size.

I ski cut the top concave section, releasing a very small loose snow slough. I then cut more aggressive turns. I cut hard right under a rock and, unaware at the moment, released a 10" deep wind slab hiding under the new snow (which, in hindsight, was an avalanche hazard displayed in the morning forecast).

This same wind slab propagated about 20-30 feet below me, popping out another small slab, which I most certainly did see (looking at my video, it would have been prudent to stay on the course I was on and most likely spit out beyond the slab; but being right handed, I instinctively felt I would have more power to resist with my right leg downhill; so I turned!!??)

While not enough to bury me, it packed more than enough punch to drag me down the slope 20 feet until I managed to angle my way out and to the side of the chute. The slide ran the length of the couloir, so if I had not been successful in getting out I would have gone for quite a ride; a scenario that, with very little imagination, could easily involve me ping ponging off the walls of the east couloir and sustaining injuries.

We absolutely let the beauty of the line in the morning sun outweigh any potential hazards we thought existed. Needless to say, my wife wasn't thrilled to hear about it later.

Personal Note: There has been a strong tendency of late to jump on the Shame Train when it comes to people in the backcountry setting off slides. Rest assured, it is no one's intention to set off a slide; but these things do happen, even to the best and most experienced of us. We all do our best to stay safe, but risk is inherent in the mountains, and the most we can do is learn from our mistakes.

But considering the current situation regarding COVID 19, many members of the backcountry community feel inclined to belittle others. I think this is as good a time as any to remember that everyone out skiing in the Wasatch backcountry is part of this community; it is absolutely your right to disagree with my decision making, but I would ask that members begin approaching any disagreements in a civil and constructive manner. Shame and belittlement only lead to resentment, and eventually nothing is gained from what could potentially be an enlightening conversation. In short, let's remember that we are ALL fallible.

I'll get off my soapbox. But do read Tom Diegel's UAC Blog Post: Uncertainty, Risk, & Decision Making: before, during, and after COVID-19. Good Stuff.