Northern San Juan

Avalanche

John Chapman · Feb 17, 2022 · Northern San Juan

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Weather

Sunny, windy, cool. West 11,600 Snow blowing off of high peaks and tree tops

Snowpack

New 2” snow covering old crust on the way up gave way to mid density wind blown powder at 11,800. In isolated spots, some wind slab was observed as well as more wind blow powder up to 10”. Near tree line a hollow windslab caused a direction choice change to avoid crossing the slope that later slid. Snow below slide area was good, loose pow that did not cause dry loose slides.

Avalanche

11,600 W More hollow snow on the large path we had planned to ski drove use toward trees. During the traverse the second rider triggered a slide about 15’ below (tracks shown in photo)