Observer Name
Torrey & Steve
Observation Date
Saturday, February 15, 2025
Avalanche Date
Saturday, February 15, 2025
Region
Salt Lake » Big Cottonwood Canyon » Mill D North » Lake Desolation
Location Name or Route
West Desolation Ridge
Elevation
8,800'
Aspect
North
Slope Angle
Unknown
Trigger
Natural
Avalanche Type
Soft Slab
Avalanche Problem
New Snow
Depth
18"
Width
300'
Vertical
Unknown
Comments
Uncertain of avalanche problem in this avalanche. The avalanche appeared to be confined to new and recent storm snow but given the wide propagation and other reported observations can't rule out a crust/facet combination. Some snow on the bed surface and debris suggest this likely happened overnight or early morning before the periods of heavy snowfall.
Comments
Steve
Natural avalanche occurred on northern slope of west desolation ridge. Spotted around noon, the avalanche looked fresh with little wind buildup. Height approximately 2ft, appeared to fail either on new snow layer or graupel layer. Could not safely approach to investigate further.
Coordinates