Avalanche Conditions

2 photos

Recent avalanches

Bow Summit

Avalanche Conditions

On Sunday Nov 26 we spent the day practicing avalanche rescue in the Bow Summit area. We noticed several avalanches that had run recently, probably Friday or Saturday Nov 25.

Most notable was a size 2 slab that occurred on a NE aspect on the ridge above the regular Bow Summit ski runs and it ran into the bowl below. I suspect this was a wind slab that failed on the weak facetted base. The fracture line was at least 60 cm thick. (First image).

We also saw a few loose wet avalanches on south and west aspects up to size 2, running on the ground. One ran surprisingly far, adjacent to some ski tracks on Observation Peak. (Second image).

Although there are some tracks out there, for me there doesn't seem to be enough snow yet to go riding. Ski and snowboard edges will just damage fragile alpine vegetation, and rocks and stumps will damage the fragile heads of riders when - not if - you hit a rock and/or stump. Maybe brush up on rescue skills instead so you're ready for the real powder when it comes?

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.