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Observation: Cherry Creek Foothills

Observation Date
2/22/2023
Observer Name
Pagnucco, Ward
Region
Logan » Cherry Creek Canyon » Cherry Creek Foothills
Location Name or Route
Cherry Creek Foothills
Weather
Sky
Obscured
Precipitation
Light Snowfall
Snow Characteristics
New Snow Depth
10"
New Snow Density
High
Snow Surface Conditions
Powder
Snow Characteristics Comments
10" of medium to high density snow on top of saturated snowpack made for difficult trailbreaking as well as descending. We punched through regularly as we climbed up sometimes sinking up to 2' deep. More damp than anticipated as the new snow is insulating the rain saturated snow.
Red Flags
Red Flags
Cracking
Collapsing
Poor Snowpack Structure
Red Flags Comments
Numerous loud booming collapses from 5400' to 6200'. Cracking only in new snow. (10" deep)
Comments
Overall, stability is poor in low elevations. Collapsing, cracking, and poor snowpack structure are all apparent. Cooler temps overnight should help solidify things though the saturated snow is well insulated.
Today's Observed Danger Rating
Considerable
Tomorrows Estimated Danger Rating
Considerable