Observation: Gold Basin

Below treeline, the 2/11 weak layer seems to be adjusting to the stress of the overlying slab. Our last significant loading event was Friday, 2/20, and since then, it has been unseasonably warm and sunny. No collapsing today, and this pit scored an ECTX. I'm not surprised by this result, but it still doesn't give me any confidence to poke at big starting zones near and above treeline where hard slabs exist over weak faceted snow. The weather feels like springtime, and we might start to consider tagging big lines off high peaks. But the snowpack hasn't made the transition to spring, and dry faceted weak layers are widespread northwest through east.

Hard slabs above facets are extremely tricky and unpredictable. The snow will offer little to no signs of instability. Skiing any of these slopes is really just a roll of the dice. If you find a weak spot or trigger point, you can still trigger a deep and very dangerous avalanche. Avoidance is the best strategy. Personally, I am going to wait until the snowpack goes completely isothermal and then gets a solid refreeze.