Sawatch

Snowpack

Brad Sawtell ยท Jan 20, 2011

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Weather

Chilly but the sun really helped. Mostly clear. Temp ranged from -15C to -9C. Winds veered a bit. Morning from the WNW early afternoon from the WSW and then back to the WNW. Winds did pick up significantly during the slight shift.

Snowpack

Lots of snow available to be loaded. Slabs were forming fast above tree line. Lots of very plump slopes and cross loaded terrain features. In sheltered areas near and below tree line, soft powder on the surface. Digging down, you can see the new snow, old snow transition and still feel a thin crust with facets below.