Observation: Wolf Creek Bowl

Observation Date
12/18/2021
Observer Name
jg
Region
Uintas » Wolf Creek Bowl
Location Name or Route
Wolf Creek Pass
Weather
Sky
Few
Wind Speed
Calm
Weather Comments
Calm and mild.
Snow Characteristics
New Snow Depth
7"
New Snow Density
Low
Snow Surface Conditions
Powder
Wind Crust
Red Flags
Red Flags
Recent Avalanches
Cracking
Collapsing
Poor Snowpack Structure
Avalanche Problem #1
Problem
Persistent Weak Layer
Trend
Same
Problem #1 Comments
The faceted old snow from October is our persistent weak layer.
Snow Profile
Aspect
North
Elevation
9,500'
Slope Angle
15°
Comments
Dug a pit on a north facing, low angle slope at 9500 ft. Total snow in that location was just over 3 feet. All tests failed 21" down on large faceted grains that were formed during the dry spell in November. Shovel shear tests failed with moderate pressure. Column test result was CT23 and Extended Column Test score was ECTP23. I think the pit test scores would be lower if the pit slope was steeper. Even with the low slope angle the ECT block did pop and slide on the weak layer.
Natural release at 9600 ft. on the NE aspect of Camp Peak reflects the touchy nature of steeper slopes that held early season snow.
Today's Observed Danger Rating
Considerable
Tomorrows Estimated Danger Rating
Considerable
Coordinates