Hi, Everyone.
After skiing and looking at the snowpack the past couple of days I have a few observations to pass along about treeline locations:
That sugary snow (the facets) was still very evident in the snowpack in both the Spearhead and Fitzsimmons Ranges at treeline elevations. I found the facet layer to be buried at approximately the same depth in both north and east-facing gladed or open terrain (around treeline) in both ranges. The depth of the layer was approximately 100cm below the surface and the snow above the layer continues to be generally quite stiff. This stiff and deep slab of snow above the facets is one of our concerns as it makes the consequence of triggering a slope much greater.
I feel that the layer, generally, is going to appear and react a little differently depending upon where you are looking, and my confidence/trust, overall, in this layer is still on the low side. May I suggest looking for lower-angle north-facing treeline and below treeline terrain without exposure to steeper-rocky inclines en route nor any avalanche slopes that may be positioned above you, as the choice for better skiing/travel.
Steep, rocky, and shallow places in the alpine, on all aspects, should still be avoided ~ especially so with all the warming that's occuring. Please take care to avoid the same terrain features at treeline, too.....
Enjoy the sunshine.....
Best regards,
Dale Marcoux
Assistant Ski Guide
ACMG Member
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