Avalanche Conditions

4 photos

Avalanche observation from Kicking Horse

Purcells/Dogtooth Range/Rudy Ridge

Avalanche Conditions

Hight of snow at tree line 75cm.
Large snowpack collapses (whoomphs?) traveling 20m+ and shaking trees from 1800m to ridge top 2200m.
Pillow tests easily released full snow pack depth on sugary basal facets.
Large avalanche cycle past 24-72hrs
About 1/2 the alpine slopes over 37degrees had released to ground/facets on icy rock and shale.
Largest result was "main line" the big funnel facing NE low on Rudys ridge. Crown 50-80cm deep, 200m wide and 500m long, reaching the bottom of the fan and pushing into xmas trees. Also an avalanche on White Wall 200m plus wide. Just to note a few.
Trail breaking was upside down and challenging.
Ski quality was good only on low angle slopes with smooth ground cover.
Boulder fields and forest etc were un-skiable.

On The Map

These observations and opinions are those of the person who submitted them. The ACMG and its members take no responsibility for errors, omissions, or lapses in continuity. Conditions differ greatly over time and space due to the variable nature of mountain weather and terrain. Application of this information provides no guarantee of increased safety. Do not use the Mountain Conditions Report as the sole factor in planning trips or making decisions in the field.