Aspen

Avalanche

Matt Lanning · May 3, 2017 · Aspen

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Weather

2-6" new overnight, more in lee slopes. Plenty of wind, but not too strong. North North East aspect, topped out at 13,900',

Snowpack

Old hard surface layer was at least 18" down. Stable on the bootpack, but very reactive with wind-loading on the flanks of the couloir on the way down. All activity was ski-cut/intentional, and a couple of these slides were significant. Attached photo shows a wind-loaded crown about 14" deep. Group was prepared for the activity, so was clear and safe during the ski. Couloir is a NNE aspect, starting from about 13,900' near Castle Peak.

Avalanche

Biggest crown (attached photo) was at 13,600', NNE aspect in a very sheltered couloir near Castle Peak