Episode 6 of the UAC podcast "A Conversation with Tom Kimbrough" is live. We explore ideas about lifetime exposure to risk and what role Buddhism has played in his life as a climber, skier, and soon-to-be octogenarian. We talk about what has changed over the years in snow science and the role of mentorship in the world of avalanche forecasting and other professions and pursuits. Check it out on ITunes, Stitcher, the UAC blog.
The UAC Marketplace is still open. Our online marketplace still has deals on skis, packs, airbag packs, beacons, snowshoes, soft goods and much more.
INSTAGRAM! We now have a UAC-Moab Instagram page. You can find it here....but better yet follow us on your smartphone. Confused? Ask a teenager.
A few high clouds are streaming over the area, winds are light and westerly, and 10,000' temps are in the low 20's. Conditions are mixed out there with some soft settled powder still to be found in sheltered areas. The strong sun and warm temps yesterday moistened exposed slopes and they will be well crusted over this morning. People are venturing off trail these days on sleds and skis, making do with what's available, and a party I encountered yesterday was raving about the turns they had made. It's all about expectations in a season like this.
Base depth in Gold Basin: 37" Base depth at Geyser Pass Trailhead: 25"
New snow totals in Gold Basin.
Snow totals at the Geyser Pass Trailhead, (9600')
Wind, temperature, and humidity on Pre Laurel Peak (11,700')
Road conditions to Geyser Pass Trailhead: The road is plowed and but snowpacked and icy in places. Good tires and at least front-wheel drive recommended.
Grooming conditions: All trails are rolled out through Geyser Pass, with fresh cordurouy into Gold Basin.
It looks thin but this is actually a decent amount of snow on the North Face of Mount Mellenthin. It often looks like this even on good years due to wind exposure. Tim Mathews photo.