I found a relatively benign snowpack today on a northwest-facing slope near treeline. The profile reveals plenty of weak snow, but no real slab to speak of in this location. The XMAS rain crust and the MF crust above it are breaking down. The XMAS crust was 3cm thick here. This is the first time I have seen any real mature depth hoar at the base of the pack, but I have to assume it is forming elsewhere.
A closer look at the facets and depth hoar at the base of the pack. This will be problematic with any significant loading event.
Solar aspects in Dry Creek showing lots of bare ground. Elevation range is 9,800 feet to 11,000 feet.
The north face of Haystack looking rough and definitely in need of a new coat of white. It would be difficult to ski off the summit right now.
Many slopes offer low avalanche danger and safe access to high peaks. Skiing is rough all around, and I am still avoiding steep alpine terrain where hard slabs exist above weak facets.
