Grand Mesa

Avalanche

Reilly Anderson · Dec 30, 2015 · Grand Mesa

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Weather

1325 @ 8900; Obscured, Wind light from NW, -10ºC; Surf Snow: +; HS: 75cm, SkiPen 15cm, BootPen 60cm. 1525 @ 10,100 NE; Overcast, Calm, -15ºC; Surf Snow: +; HS: 135cm; SkiPen 20cm; BootPen: 75cm

Snowpack

One large whumph observed at 10,100' on the eastern shoulder of Bald Mtn. Snowpack at this location was clearly wind affected. Dug a quick pit on NE facing, 22º slope, @ 10,100ft. HS 135cm. CT13 and CT14 both Q3 BRK about 25cm down. About 10cm of faceted crystals on ground, but seemed surprisingly resistant (4F). The 125cm of snow on top was well bonded, progressing F at the surface to 1F all the way down to just below the buried facets. While skiing, snow was supportive and seemed strong.

Avalanche

None observed.