Hello to all you late-season ski-tourers out there. I hope this finds Everyone keeping well and enjoying the end to April.
Spent today touring into the Park and on to Tremor Glacier from Blackcomb Ski Area. Travel conditions today varied. And, the backcountry is a 'Ghost Town' right now ~ a great time to be travelling; not many souls out there at all.
The winds were blowing from the East all day in the high alpine (strong at times, too). The temperatures were cold throughout the day and the little bit of snow we recieved last Thursday had been blown around and relocated onto West through South aspects recently.
It is fair to say that the snow surface is very variable right now; I encountered nearly every type of snow condition today from different types of crust to wind-affected snow to a handful of decent powder turns.
A note:
* ski crampons are recommended right now if you find yourself moving from lower or moderatley-angled terrain into 'steeper' terrain for tracksetting in the alpine (especially if that 'steeper' terrain is north or east-facing; the reason is that the recent winds have polished areas on these aspects/type of terrain and it's quite challenging to set an efficient track without the aid of ski crampons). An example of where some of these tricky conditions may be lurking, right now, will be the last pitch on the ascent to the Patterson col from Trorey Gl., or the north-face of Decker Gl. right now. Please consider such a slippery surface as a potential hazard ~ avoid combinations like a hardened and slippery slope above open crevasses or cliffs. Unexpected slips can result in a fast and uncontrolled slide in this kind of terrain and that could lead to a potential injury (even a tweaked knee could be a real challenge to manage out there). Be careful and perhaps look for some alternate routes that use more favorable terrain for tracksetting.
* Found some good corn skiing at lower elevations in the afternoon on southwest aspects. As always, please consider the type of terrain you're on and the terrain above you if the snow you're skiing/exposed to is being thawed by the sun ~ essentially, things are becoming increasingly more unstable. Timing is key for safe travel in the Spring.
* Fast travel conditions on lower-angled glaciated terrain currently.
Enjoy the solitude out there.
Wishing Everyone safe travels.
Best regards,
Dale Marcoux
ACMG Member
ACMG Assistant Ski Guide
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