Spent the last two days touring out of the Bow Hut area, visiting the St.Nicholas/Olive Col and Rhondda South Peak. Had the hut to ourselves, which will probably never happen again in my lifetime!
Some observations that were made:
Average snowpack depth on the icefield is 200cm, with fairly even coverage on the eastern side of the icefield. There are a few sagging holes ~400m to the NW of St Nicholas, so if you're heading towards Mt Gordon, be aware of their presence.
No new avalanche activity was observed. All activity noted had run probably during the storm cycle on November 30. Quick tests and probing of slopes above 2400m showed a strong mid- to lower pack with a very soft to soft slab developing at the surface. Below 2400m, the snowpack averaged 100-120cm with generally a strong mid- to lower pack, except in areas of wind-scouring and moraines, where the base was quite faceted and weak.
Temperatures were cold on Wednesday (-28), but an inversion warmed things up on Thursday, and a pleasant -4 was measured on the summit of Rhondda South (3015m).
Winds were generally light from the north, except at ridgetop where moderate winds from the north were transporting snow.
Ski quality was variable. Ski penetration ranged from 10-15cm below 2400m. Above 2400m, 5cm was the maximum encountered. If you know how to determine which snow surface is hard sustrugi and which is soft, then you will have excellent skiing. Otherwise plan on tricky ski conditions with fast travelling on the climb up.
Enjoy this upcoming -30 degree Arctic freeze! Brrrr....
Chris Gooliaff
ASG, ARG
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