Noticed a significant and unsuspecting hazard the other day
while climbing at Haffner Creek, other popular areas may have similar hazards.
The snow mushrooms are quite a bit larger this year than
they usually are and throughout the day we heard several big thumps as they
were dropping into the drainage. The trail was nearly wiped out in one area
near the back of the climbing area and the snow that fell was of neck breaking
density.
Just because it is below tree line and in a generally safe
area it is important to recognize hazards such as these as the warmer and
longer days start to affect the snow pack. Best to lay your packs and belay out
from under these features.
Rob Owens
Alpine Guide