November 27
Spruces, West Desolation ridge
Elevations, slope angles and aspects
7400-9780', angles over 35°, all aspects.
Snow conditions
Mill D trail has good coverage, groomed nicely with only a coupla rocks showing on the lower.
Off aspects retain marginal snow cover. Shady aspects, 8-24" elevation and wind effect dependent.
Exposed terrain has suffered from warm temperatures and wind, both on the ridges and lower on the slopes, with dense snowboarder snow above 8k.
Weather
Overcast skies, mild temperatures, wind from the south along ridges.
Snow pit
Evaluation
Good stability in the area traveled, early season base developing but shallow.
Sticky dense snow was the rule rather than the exception, good for settlement.
Mid pack shear is probably worth keeping an eye on if there was any significant snow in the forecast?
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