December 28

Alpine-Deer-Creek pass

Elevations, slope angles and aspects

5700-9200', angles approaching 35°, all aspects

Snow conditions

Snow cover of a foot or so allow skiing from the trail head. That amount increased to about two feet at the pass.

Surface hoar continues development.

surface-hoar-one

most prevelant at lower elevations

surface-hoar-two

and near water sources.

mf-hoar

Faceting within near surface layering continues but, the denser underlying snow from the mid December storm provides good support.

Upper elevations have seen extensive wind with accompanying drifting and scouring.

Avalanche activity

One older slide was observed on the upper southwest face of Box Elder

sw-face

No other activity seen.

Weather

Clear and sunny skies with moderate temperatures. Wind from the south, gusting to around 20 mph

Evaluation

Stable snow was found in the area. Instability would be from wind drifting.

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December 28 journal

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