Out for a fine day in Ranger Creek today and climbed Chalice.
It was-7c at the base of the route at 09:00 things felt cold and quiet.
From the top of our route, we noticed a few signs of surface instability in the form of day old sloughs and small avalanches, one was likely triggered by an animal near the top of one of the right hand gullies as you walk up valley. Once up high looking out the valley there are lots of signs that wind has done its thing.
The big picture is yes the ice is good both on R&D and Chalice. The reality is that this area is starting to smooth over nicely with at least 60cm in areas and even more I am sure up high or in loaded pockets. Currently there is likely enough snow for avalanches. In particular I noticed small low angle benches and rock slabs in and around some of the mixed terrain close to RND that looked well loaded.
Are line of descent followed a smooth hard surface of snow that leads all the way down to the gully so there are some hard running surfaces available for snow to run on.
More snow and wind in Ranger Creek will really change the current game.
It's unfortunately a big place for some short popular routes!
Anyways, Old man winter is getting ready!
Cheers
Patrick DelaneyACMG Alpine Guide
403 688 6003