[MCR] Mountain Conditions Summary for the Rockies and Columbia Mts. July

Subject: [MCR] Mountain Conditions Summary for the Rockies and Columbia Mts. July 16, 2009
Date: Thu, 16 Jul 2009 19:22:39 -0600
The alpine conditions are in transition with more melting  moving the neve
line higher and variable snow conditions depending upon the location and
time of day.

Good travel conditions have been reported when there has been a freeze, but
in many places there is a thin crust that is breaking down early and  mid
calf foot penetrations are not uncommon. Thinner crevasse bridges, trickier
bergshrund crossings and concern for cornice falls seems to be a common
theme from the reports in both the Rockies and Columbias.

With mainly sunny skies and warm temperatures forecast through the weekend
this means that many alpine routes should be possible, but an early start
is in order to get down and off the snow before it gets too soft and the
avalanche danger rises. Rockfall potential is another thing to keep in mind
as the snow melt keeps exposing more loose stones higher up the peaks.

Rock routes throughout the ranges are reported in good shape with only a
few lingering snow patches at higher elevations.

Enjoy.

Brad White

ACMG/IFMGA Mountain Guide.

_______________________________________________
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