[MCR] ACMG Mountain Conditions Report Summary for the Rockies and Columbia Mountains issued May 17, 2012

ACMG Mountain Conditions Report Summary for the Rockies and Columbia Mountains issued May 17, 2012 Following a week of beautiful warm spring conditions, the cool temperatures have returned. Since last weekend, sunny conditions with valley bottom highs into the twenties have resulted in strong melt freeze crusts at most elevations followed by rapid deterioration throughout the day. By yesterday afternoon, the snowpack was isothermal up to about 2000 metres. A number of significant avalanche events occurred during this warm spell. This all changed this morning with the return of temperatures around zero at valley bottom and light snow flurries in the Bow Valley. Given the forecasted cool temperatures over the weekend, it is unlikely that crusts will break down and a stable snowpack can be expected. On the down side, this means that some of the fine corn skiing that has been enjoyed with well timed ski outings will no longer be available. Bone hard skiing can be expected. Alpine climbing conditions are very much in the in between season. There have been reports of occasional snow routes getting climbed and possibly some mixed routes on north aspects while conditions stayed cold and frozen. Timing and a close eye on rising temperatures will be critical for any alpine attempts. Cornices are huge in many locations following a record snow year and incessant winds. The weekend looks reasonable for low elevation rock climbs in the sun but the down sweater will be de rigueur. Anything else will be a while yet. Marc Ledwidge Mountain Guide
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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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.