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Observation: Big Cottonwood Canyon

Observation Date
2/12/2017
Observer Name
Jack agnes
Region
Salt Lake » Big Cottonwood Canyon
Location Name or Route
Mid bcc
Weather
Sky
Clear
Weather Comments
Another spectacular day to be out in the mountains. Thanks Bruce.
Snow Characteristics
New Snow Density
Low
Snow Surface Conditions
Powder
Snow Characteristics Comments
Dust on crust below 9k with slowly freezing wet layer 10 to 15ish cms below that has been previously well described. Above 9k, on NW aspects, delicious settled pow that sloughs quick and easy with small to moderate entrainment. Ski area explosive testing results looked to be similar but with effect size proportional to the amount of pentalite applied( a few actual crowns, but still pockety). Looks like windloaded pockets could pull out 20 to 45cms deep with low to moderate entrainment of low density snow. Nothing appeared to actively propagate with energy or step into old snow. Saw slope testing above 40 degrees without consequential instability. No natural activity observed. No collapsing. Sun and temperature a factor, aspect dependent up til noon.
Red Flags
Red Flags Comments
No red flags. Subtle yellow at best.
Avalanche Problem #1
Problem
New Snow
Trend
Decreasing Danger
Problem #1 Comments
In a steep confined slide path with significant consequence below, I suppose a guy might could find some trouble, or excitement, dependent on your risk tolerance and existential philosophy.
Avalanche Problem #2
Problem
Cornice
Problem #2 Comments
Listen to ur grandma and stay back. If you don't know the specific start zone since '83 stay back and grab a tree.
Snow Profile
Aspect
Northwest
Elevation
10,000'
Slope Angle
42°
Today's Observed Danger Rating
Low
Tomorrows Estimated Danger Rating
Low

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