November 13
Spruces-Wilson Fork-Spruces
Elevations, slope angles and aspects
7500-9800', angles over 35°, all aspects.
Snow conditions
Minimal coverage to around 8500' and on sun exposed aspects.
Skin protection for bases was of value.
On shady upper elevations, wind exposure had the biggest impact.
Exposed areas had a few inches of soft and fluffy over the early November melt freeze crust with, facets resting on the damp, dense base layer.
Sheltered locations had the strongest snow pack viewed to date. The elusive late October rain crust was finally observed over a dense base layer. November mf, barely discernable.
Weather
Overcast to foggy skies, moderate temperatures. Winds were light.
Snow Pit
Evaluation
Stable snow on all aspects.
Sluffing potential on the steep and shady.
Weather guessers suggest cool temperatures so heating shouldn't be a factor.
Slab formation from wind would increase instability, especially in locations with the light and fluffy, resting on firm early November crust.
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