Join me Tuesday night at the Park City library to discuss the state-of-the-state of the snowpack... black tie optional :)
Above the valley gunk, you'll find clean air and clear skies. West and southwest winds increased slightly in the past few hours allowing temperatures to climb into the mid and upper 20's overnight. Recent storms have been good to the eastern front and the Uinta's are white. Riding and turning conditions are about the best they've been in years with snow depths across the range averaging just over 3'.
We are working to get the entire Uinta weather network back online, but got Windy Peak up and running last week. Above is recent hourly data from Upper Whitney Basin (9,126') along with wind data from Windy Peak (10,662'). To view more regional weather stations click
here.
Plowing is done on Mirror Lake Highway, but Wolf Creek Pass is still open. However, just 'cause you can see your rig parked near Wolf Creek, doesn't mean the terrain you're choosing to ride is good to go.
Remember- this is the time of year where most of us get tricked thinking there isn't enough snow to avalanche. Unfortunately, this is also the type of setup when most close calls and accidents occur. If you are getting out and about, be prepared for your own self rescue. Wear and know how to use an avalanche beacon, shovel, and probe.
No significant new avalanche activity to report from the eastern front.
This seasons snowpack and avalanche observations, along with trip reports are found
here.