This profile is from the Prelude. While there is only 4 inches of snow at the trailhead, I was happy to find almost three feet at higher elevations. The snowpack changes dramatically around 11,100'. It's a shame there is not more snow down low, because we are off to a great start near the treeline and above. The snowpack is looking quite robust with P- to 1F+ density at the base of the pack. A hard rain crust near the top of the pack is easy to identify. I found a layer of faceting rounds just starting to form above this crust. For now this is my layer of concern, and I'll be watching it closely. No slab above it in this pit. If you are skiing above treeline, look out for cohesive slabs of wind-drifted snow that could exist above this layer. The bottom line is things are looking good for the early season; keep the snow coming!
Serious graupel pooling below steep cliff bands in Tele Gold.
Not your typical winter scene. Due to recent rains and warm temperatures, creek beds are flowing, making travel difficult in most low-elevation drainages. While there is a lot of snow up high, travel remains difficult due to low snow. Conditions improve greatly above 11,000'.
