Observation: Goldminer's

Observation Date

1/26/2026

Observer Name

Brian Hays

Region

Moab » Laurel Highway » Goldminer's

Location Name or Route

Laurel Highway - Gold Miners - Gold Basin

Red Flags

Recent Avalanches

Wind Loading

Poor Snowpack Structure

Avalanche Problem #1

Problem

Wind Drifted Snow

Trend

Decreasing Danger

Problem #1 Comments

Encountered wind slabs on the crest of Laurel Ridge, top of Goldminers, and on Tele Gold. The Gravel Pit Lanes avalanche appears to be from wind loading into the start zone. Other areas like the lower 2/3 of Goldminers, Show Off, and the middle of the funnel were less affected by the wind.

Avalanche Problem #2

Problem

Persistent Weak Layer

Trend

Same

Problem #2 Comments

Weak snowpack structure in the basement. The snow is generally supportable but there were a few times I punched through and found the facets underlying it all on shady aspects and areas.

Comments

Overall surprisingly good conditions and cold powder skiing even on solar aspects. That will likely change soon with the strengthening sun. South facing had 8-12” of fresh snow on top of an ice crust underneath. The open slopes skied well but there are plenty of hazards, logs, and stumps to avoid in the trees.

Today's Observed Danger Rating

Considerable

Tomorrows Estimated Danger Rating

Considerable

Coordinates

Observation: Goldminer's

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