Ogden lower bench traverse

Quick report

Weather

cloudy, stormy

Ride Type

mellowSlopes, openTrees

Stayed Away

convexSlopes, alpineSlopes, steepSlopes

Riding Quality

good

Snow Conditions

deepPowder, powder

Avalanche Conditions

avalancheConditionSlab, avalancheConditionSound

Small avalanche triggered while climbing through an isolated wind loaded feature. The crown was approximately 30-40 cm deep. Went on a recon mission to hopefully attempt mount Niles later in the season. (I wanted to see if the Ogden bench provided better access.) I would recommend hiking up the valley as this route feels less direct. I did not stayed in the trees on the edge of the bench as initial sign of instability did not favor alpine skiing. Skied a couple small tree laps off the East end of the bench, with 30-40 cm of blower powder. (many face shots) I rammed the snowbank with my truck and re-opened up the PARKING LOT. Anyone with winter tires should be able to make it up, the key is having a spotter to get a good run up from the highway!