It's Nice In The Sun

After periods of cold, clear weather the snowpack tends to become more stable. With a storm in the forecast we switch our attention to what's near and on the surface of the snow to get an idea of how new snow will stick to the old surface. Today we found small surface hoar (feathery crystals), wind swept areas (hard snow) and facets (sugary crystals). All of these are potentially future sliding layers once new snow barries them. For now, we are enjoying the little warmth the sun provides.