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Observation: Guardsman Pass area

Observation Date
12/7/2025
Observer Name
Eve Kovacs & Geoff Bodwin
Region
Salt Lake » Big Cottonwood Canyon » Guardsman Pass area
Location Name or Route
Guardsman Pass & N Ridge of 10420
Red Flags
Red Flags
Collapsing
Poor Snowpack Structure
Avalanche Problem #1
Problem
Persistent Weak Layer
Trend
Same
Problem #1 Comments
We experienced repeated whumpfing while skinning up through the trees on the W & WNW aspects to Guardsman's Pass. The snow pack was upside down and about 12"-16" deep. Also experienced whumpfing on the NE ridge of 10420 above Guardsman Pass.
Avalanche Problem #2
Problem
Wind Drifted Snow
Trend
Same
Problem #2 Comments
Windslab on the ridgeline above Guardsman Pass.
Comments
Coverage is thin and the snow is shark infested, particularly on the ridge up to 10420. Below Guardsman Pass, the logs are not well covered and there are rocks lurking just below the surface. We skinned up through the woods but elected to ski the road back down. No overhead hazard on the road owing to lack of snow depth.
Today's Observed Danger Rating
Considerable
Tomorrows Estimated Danger Rating
Considerable
Coordinates