Much less snow fell in the Central Bear River Range than in Logan City. The Tony Grove Snotel at 8400' reports only about 5 inches of light fresh accumulation yesterday, containing only 0.2" of water. There's 27 inches of total snow at the site containing 64% of average water content for the date. Northwest winds are drifting some of the light snow around, with the CSI Logan Peak weather station currently reporting single digit hourly average wind speeds, and it's 7 degrees at 9700' this morning.
Very weak faceted snow is widespread at mid and upper elevations in the Bear River Range, and it's now capped by a rather inconsistent rime or rain-crust. A heavier slab layer is now developing on top of the loose faceted snow.
Loose faceted snow crystals plague the shallow snowpack in the Logan Zone, now capped by plaster-like heavy snow and rime from last week. (12-8-2015)
Very shallow, early season conditions exist, and you are still likely to hit rocks or woody debris in most areas. The Tony Grove Road is not maintained in the winter for wheeled vehicles, and road conditions are icy, snowy, drifted-in and treacherous, so come prepared. As far as I could see, only sledders made it very far up the road last week. The Tony Grove Area is a shared use area and very popular in the early season, so please watch your speed, use patience, and be respectful of other users. For easier access to the shallow powder, Beaver Mt. allows uphill travel and appreciates early season users packing down the weak snow. Remember while the lifts are closed, the area is considered backcountry.
It's time to dust off and check the condition of your avalanche rescue equipment. Review and practice Companion Avalanche Rescue with our video..........HERE****
Ski areas in the Ogden and Salt Lake Area mountains report some activity from control work yesterday, with mostly loose new snow activity, but a few triggered avalanches stepping down to the rocks involving old weak and sugary snow. No avalanche activity has been reported in the Logan backcountry recently.