Just back from a few days at the Columbia Icefields, July 5-7.
Here are a few observations:
Some snowpack settlement has occurred during the past warm spells, but the
current cooler trend has not been quite cold enough to truly stiffen up the
snow. Morning lows in the Icefields Campground of 6 degrees Celsius were
resulting in 5 cm crusts at 2700 m on NE and E aspects, while N and NW
aspects had thicker crusts and better travel. Wherever the snowpack is
shallower than 75 cm, foot penetration on the glaciers is down to the ice,
especially in the pm. Afternoon heating is still a definite concern, and
serious thought should be given to the route of descent.
Grant Meekins
Alpine Guide
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These observations and opinions are those of the person who submitted them. The
ACMG and its members take no responsibility for errors, omissions, or lapses in
continuity. Conditions differ greatly over time and space due to the variable
nature of mountain weather and terrain. Application of this information
provides no guarantee of increased safety. Do not use the Mountain Conditions
Report as the sole factor in planning trips or making decisions in the field.
Please check out http://acmg.ca/mcr for more information.
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