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Observation: Brianhead Backcountry

Observation Date
2/4/2017
Observer Name
Toddeo
Region
Southwest » Brian Head Backcountry
Location Name or Route
Brianhead Backcountry - Navajo Lake
Weather
Sky
Few
Wind Direction
Southwest
Wind Speed
Light
Weather Comments
Light breeze with 9,600' temps a bit above freezing.
Snow Characteristics
Snow Surface Conditions
Dense Loose
Wind Crust
Snow Characteristics Comments

A trace of new snow in the last few days. Some drifted areas on the highway.

Dense loose seems about right, settled snow in wind protected areas. Wind affected snow in wind exposed areas.

Red Flags
Red Flags
Wind Loading
Red Flags Comments
Minor wind slabs in exposed areas, minor in this area.
Avalanche Problem #1
Problem
Normal Caution
Trend
Same
Problem #1 Comments

Normal caution while traveling in this area. Sleds have been "testing" many slopes without results.

Snow Profile
Aspect
North
Elevation
9,600'
Slope Angle
25°
Comments

HS=6'. Snow pit profile is upper 4.5' of pack. Generally grades from 1 finger to 4 finger with no observed crusts of any type. A good solid pack. I was surprised to find no rain crust at this elevation, no major breaks or shears.

Photo below is mid-pack rounds about 2.5' below the top of the pit.

Went nordic skiing today and remembered why fat skis completely revolutionized BC skiing!

This profile is representative of the area between Webster Flat and Duck Creek which sees a lot of sled activity with the exception of the Deer Hollow Nordic area.

Low danger in this area, impressive snow pack.

Today's Observed Danger Rating
Low
Tomorrows Estimated Danger Rating
Low
Coordinates