Observer Name
Champion & Gagne
Observation Date
Monday, January 6, 2025
Avalanche Date
Saturday, January 4, 2025
Region
Salt Lake » Mill Creek Canyon » Yellow Jacket
Location Name or Route
Upper Yellow Jacket Trees
Elevation
9,500'
Aspect
Northwest
Slope Angle
36°
Trigger
Unknown
Avalanche Type
Hard Slab
Avalanche Problem
Persistent Weak Layer
Weak Layer
Facets
Depth
2'
Width
175'
Vertical
1,000'
Snow Profile Comments
This avalanche failed as a solid 1F-hard slab sitting atop F-hard facets, underscoring the danger of the persistent weak layer.
Comments
We observed this avalanche traveling up toward the ridgeline between Yellow Jacket Trees and Depth Hoar Bowl.
The start zone was located at approximately 9,500 feet on a slope with a steepness of 35–38 degrees. While the crown averaged 2–3 feet deep, we noted areas along the flank where it reached up to 9 feet. The avalanche appeared to run about 1,000 vertical feet, leaving behind large chunks of debris.
Additional photos of the avalanche from the crown at 9500' on a NW aspect
Looking down at the avalanche from the ridgeline just above 9600' on a NW Aspect
Looking across at the crown just below the start zone - approx 9300' - NW aspect
Coordinates