Front Range
AvalancheJackson Emry · Mar 30, 2024 · Front Range
Weather
Arriving at the TH, we observed 3-4" of new snow in the parking lot and notably more as we gained elevation (4-8"+). The TH temperature was in the mid 20s and held steady through most of the tour. The ski was overcast with snow initially and tapered off during by the end of the tour. Winds were moderate to strong from the WSW in the alpine and exposed areas. There was notable wind transport observed in the fresh snow.
Snowpack
The snow surface in sheltered areas consisted of medium density unconsolidated snow. Wind affected snow was observed at varying stiffness and thickness in exposed areas. There was very limited cracking and propagation observed on the ascent. Slight cracking was observed on isolated features of the out track.
Avalanche
Our party of 4 experienced a close call today, witnessing 3 notable avalanches on different aspects. The following is an approximate timeline of events paired with relevant information. -Out the door from the Bear Lake TH: ~6:15 AM -Arrival at the apron of our planned Couloir ascent: ~8:45 AM -Transition to booting at top of apron: ~9:00 AM -Avalanche 1: ~9:08 AM SS-N-R?-D2-O. occurs about half way through our transition Skier 1 and Skier 2 carried into the apron and partially buried. This ran from an unknown elevation in the upper couloir. We suspect a natural trigger with a wind slab failure. -Avalanche 2: ~9:08 AM SS-N-R?-D2-O This avalanche ran seconds after the first and carried skier 3 about 10-20' downslope leaving them unburied. This appeared to be a sympathetic release from the avalanche 1. A 2.5-3.5' crown, 30' wide, was seen just south of our objective couloir in an adjacent chute. It is unclear weather this broke as a result of the first or second avalanche. Skier 4 was not caught or carried in either avalanche. They were able to catch shelter behind a rock with skier 3 for the first avalanche and catch shelter alone for the second. -Gear Search: ~9:09 AM Once we ensured everyone was located and uninjured we did search for any gear on the surface that could aid with self extraction. We spent approximately 50 minutes looking for gear with a safety person posted outside of the slide path. -Avalanche 3: 10:10 AM SS-N-R?-D3-O. We witnessed an Avalanche on a NW slope run out of Flat Top Gully. It appeared to run full length. It was impressive. Scene Departure: 10:30 AM We departed for the TH via mixed travel methods (booting, plates, skis) due to missing gear. As the R value/ additional hang fire was unknown, It was deemed too dangerous to search for additional missing gear or further investigate the avalanche. -Arrive at the car at 1:15 PM