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Observation: Kessler Peak

Observation Date
2/23/2025
Observer Name
Cam F., Kai B.
Region
Salt Lake » Big Cottonwood Canyon » Kessler Peak
Location Name or Route
Silver Mine Meadows
Red Flags
Red Flags
Rapid Warming
Poor Snowpack Structure
Avalanche Problem #1
Problem
Wet Snow
Trend
Increasing Danger
Problem #1 Comments
Snow warmed throughout the day, even on north facing slopes. By the time of our exit (around 15:00) the snow had transformed from fun bouncy pow, to thick concrete trying to prevent you from turning.
Avalanche Problem #2
Problem
Persistent Weak Layer
Trend
Same
Problem #2 Comments
We found poor snowpack structure in a pit we dug just below the ridge. Although we didn't get any results on our ECT, it was easy to find the layer where recent avalanches have been breaking on.
Snow Profile
Aspect
Northeast
Elevation
9,000'
Comments
We were able to find some good snow for most of the day on north facing aspects. As the day progressed temperatures rose significantly and started deteriorating skiing quality, making for an interesting exit.
Today's Observed Danger Rating
Considerable
Tomorrows Estimated Danger Rating
Considerable
Coordinates