Vail & Summit County

Avalanche

Kevin Nikolaides · Dec 3, 2022 · Vail & Summit County

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Observation photo 1Observation photo 2Observation photo 3

Weather

Overcast. Light winds with moderate gusts from the SW, some snow transport observed. 15 degrees.

Snowpack

We spent most of our day in well protected areas in the trees- mostly unconsolidated to the ground. The coverage was variable but deeper areas facing east had about 2.5' of snow- the somewhat heavy new snow on top of old facets. Skiing conditions were tough. Had a couple whumpfs once we approached NTL on E/ESE aspects then remotely triggered a small slide

Avalanche

Triggered remotely from below bench (see photo). ESE aspect at 12,000'. Broke approx. 200' wide and ran 150' to the bench. Variable crown depth ~1-2'. Slope estimated to be around 35 degrees.