Observation: Manns Peak

First, the good - All slopes below treeline have low danger, including the polars, which still hold excellent snow. We have not had a single report of a slab over the weak facets anywhere below treeline. Many slopes (solars) offer low danger, allowing you to walk far and high during the current period of sunny high pressure. Cold, dry powder still exists near treeline; it's just a little harder to find thanks to recent winds.

The not so good - Above treeline northerlies remain our biggest area of concern. Long-time La Sal skiers will be used to this. It is rare that we ever enter big alpine terrain this time of year. Hard slabs from previous drifting sit on top of several weak layers of facets. Heavy drifting today continues to put pressure on these weak layers.

The profile below is from an east aspect, where I enjoyed great turns below treeline.

Unfortunately, winds from the west blew strongly today and drifted large amounts of snow. Sensitive drifts will be found near and above treeline on Thursday. Especially on north through east-facing slopes. The photo below is the north face of Mount Mellenthin.