January 25
Willow, Beartrap, Desolation
Elevations, slope angles and aspects:
7000-9800', angles over 40°, all aspects
Slopes skied:
East facing off West Willow ridge, northwest facing in Beartrap, two north facing off West Desolation ridge and out to Mill D north fork
Snow conditions:
4-6" new snow overnight of the creamy denser variety. It was well bonded and settled out most of the previous day's lingering sluffs.Winds along the ridges had created some new cornices and shallow drifts. Cornices broke easily, drifts were non reactive to ski cuts. The warmer denser snow also eliminated much of the near surface faceting.
Weather:
Partly cloudy skies deteriorated to overcast, with light snow showers. Moderate temperatures and light west winds.
Evaluation:
Snow remained stable. New snow actually improved stability in the area traveled through. Drifting from increased wind, day time heating and more heavy snow could easily increase instability.
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