Went up to Balu Pass Friday, Dec. 07. 10cms light snow on the firm crust from the big rain event, bit more above 1900M. The snowpack was firm and supportive up in the alpine with about 20-25cm ski pen. and good quality turns above 2000M. Temps: -20 in the shade, -9 in the sun.
Rutchblock score 6 at 2100M right below Balu pass. East aspect, HS (height of snowpack) 230. Failed with an unclean, broken shear down 90cms on the Nov. 24 surface hoar layer. This layer was not real developed at this elevation.
Skied moderate terrain near the pass. Saw about 4 groups hammer the 8812 bowl, they walked right up it to Bruins Pass. About 20 tracks in it by 3 pm. Snowpack felt well settled with no whumphing or cracking in the alpine.
Enjoy, be safe. Russ Lybarger, Ski Guide.