January 2
Bowman to Cabin run exiting Alexander
Elevations, slope angles and aspects:
6200'-10'200', angles over 35° all aspects but south
Slopes skied:
Cabin run to Baker spring and Toots to Boot into Alexander
Snow conditions:
Surface hoar was prevalent
at lowest elevations
and by the creek.
It disappeared with elevation gain but, was found again, late afternoon, in the lower Alexander meadows. Snow has settled nicely, seldom breaking through the denser surface snow. Upper Gobblers had wind damage, with snow whales (wind rows) up to three feet tall along the ridges . Scoured to a foot or less in open terrain off the ridges. Gradual lessoning of damage with descent. Some monster cornices along the east facing ridge, upper and mid Alexander.
Weather:
Mild temperatures, with inversion, warmer up high. Winds from the southwest, gusting into the 20 mph range along the ridge. Could see it moving snow in Mineral and Mil B south.
Snow pit:
Example of condition in upper elevation scoured.
Evaluation:
Snow is settled and mostly stable. Lingering concerns about heavily wind loaded in east facing upper Alexander.
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