Front Range
AvalancheJeremy Sibert · Jan 1, 2020 · Front Range
Weather
10-20 degrees throughout day Mostly clear skis with scattered clouds Apex of tour: 40.5247, -105.8790 NE Aspect ~11,200ft 15mph winds from the W, SW. Gusts near 20-25mph
Snowpack
At tree line: 40.5231, -105.8743 North aspect ~11,000ft Thin wind slab. While testing the slope directly beneath a small cliff band, at approx 35 degree slope, my partner triggered a shooting crack (see photo). The slope didn't release, but signs of instability were obvious. We shifted skiers right to a slope of approx 25-27 degrees that had been skied twice by another party just before us. This slope was stable with a thin wind crust. Below tree line: 40.5293, -105.8827 NW aspect ~10,700ft Soft powder with no signs of instability on slopes from approx <20 to >30 degrees.
Avalanche
40.5243, -105.8769 E, NE aspect ~11,000ft Observed what appeared to be a days old slide across the bowl on West Hot Dog Bowl on slopes approx 30-35 degrees (see photo). Could not see tracks into the slide, though wind may have erased and evidence. Appeared to have broke to the weak layer. Most of the slope width slid to the valley below.