November 8
Mineral Fork
Elevations, slope angles and aspects
7000-10300', angles over 35°, north facing aspects.
Snow conditions
2-8" recent snow, settled, from the last storm over a variable base, including dirt and rocks.
New snow was medium density providing resistence on the up and down.
Old snow above 9k variable in depth elevation and aspect dependent, with the deepest above 9500', on the shady north facing.
Localized collapsing on crust-facet layering was experienced on several occasions above 9k, the largest and last collapse resulting in a fracture and my exit.
Weather
Partly cloudy skies, moderate temperatures and light wind from the south.
Snow pit
Before and after snow pit comparison.
Snow profile.
Evaluation
Ascent towards the west pass in upper Mineral Fork ended with a collapse and fracture(no slide).
Snow in the upper bowl was variable, supportable and not so on the unerlying crust. Depth was also quite variable.
However, the base is large grained facets and the crust facet sandwiches above that base are widespread.
Would I have triggered a slide by continuing ascent?
You are welcome to continue the route. Would appreciate info on conclusion.
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