Observation: Cutler Ridge

Observation Date
1/26/2020
Observer Name
Derek DeBruin
Region
Ogden » Ben Lomond » Cutler Ridge
Location Name or Route
Ben Lomond, Cutler Ridge
Weather
Weather Comments
The west side of the bench was quite thick with fog this morning, but was quite clear upcanyon and into the valley. A bit cooler temps than yesterday (20200125), but not by more than a few degrees F. Winds were light down low and moderate at the mid elevations, with occasional stronger gusts, consistently out of the SW until about 130pm. At that time, flow became variable as it started the shift to the NW. Partly to mostly cloudy skies all day, but clouds stayed well above the summit. Precip began shortly after 8pm, with rain/snow line somewhere around 7000ft or so. S1 above this, wintry mix below, or even just plain rain at the trailhead around 9pm.
Snow Characteristics
Snow Characteristics Comments
Active snow transport in the mid elevations and some visible from afar in the upper elevations; snow seemed a bit too dense and winds a bit too light for wind effects at low elevations. There were clear wind effects overnight and throughout the morning as the mid elevation skin track was filled in, snow surface was a bit scalloped and mottled, and bits of scouring were present, particularly near ridges and knobs.
It was difficult to find much untracked or low density riding. Temps, wind, and sun had all taken their toll, leaving just the occasiaonl good turn here and there. The overnight snow will be a nice refresh. Fairly thick crust at low elevations this morning had more or less gone away by the end of daylight hours, only to refreeze after dark.
Red Flags
Red Flags Comments
Not much too note. Things are pretty locked in; normal caution. New snow likely bonds well with the current surface, so I'd be on the look out for wind, storm slab, and loose problems tomorrow.
Comments
There is a substantial snowmobile track up the Cutler Ridge skinner to approx. 7700ft. This is the result of a non-avalanche rescue on 20200126, and NOT the result of illegal activity by the sledding community.
Today's Observed Danger Rating
Low
Tomorrows Estimated Danger Rating
Moderate